As athletes and active Alaskans, we understand the importance of every edge in performance and injury prevention. That’s why we are excited to introduce our new custom orthotics service, featuring SoloLab orthotics. These specialized inserts are designed to provide optimal support and enhance athletic performance for runners, hikers, and all active individuals in our rugged Alaskan terrain.Â
Custom orthotics made for a highschool track and field athlete
Why Custom Orthotics Matter for Athletes
Custom orthotics play a crucial role in sports medicine by providing athletes with the support and stability they need to perform at their best.Â
Unlike generic insoles which are generally stiff, these custom orthotics are tailored to the unique shape and biomechanics of an individual’s feet, offering the highest level of customization. They provide support, without compromising important foot movement. This means they can work in running shoes, ski boots, you name it!Â
- Injury Prevention: Custom orthotics help prevent common sports injuries by providing stability, cushioning, and support to the feet. They reduce the risk of sprains, strains, stress fractures, and other foot-related injuries that athletes commonly experience.
- Pain Relief: Many athletes suffer from foot pain caused by conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, or flat feet. Custom orthotics alleviate pain by redistributing pressure and reducing strain on specific areas.
- Improved Performance: Proper foot alignment and support are crucial for optimal performance. Custom orthotics help improve balance, stability, and promote efficient movement patterns that can lead to:
- Improved speed and agilityÂ
- Enhanced power output
- Reduced muscle fatigueÂ
- Better overall comfort during training and competition
- Enhanced Comfort: Custom orthotics offer an extra layer of comfort and shock absorption, reducing fatigue and discomfort during training or competition. This allows athletes to focus more on their performance and less on foot pain or discomfort.
- Sport-Specific Benefits: Custom orthotics can be tailored to address the unique demands of different sports:
- For runners and track athletes: They are made with a more flexible material allowing the athlete’s foot to still move the way it’s supposed to while also proving the support they need to improve their running gait. Great for preventing shin splints!Â
- For basketball and volleyball players: They provide cushioning and support for repetitive jumping and landing
- For soccer players: they enhance stability during a quick directional changes and improve overall footworkÂ
- For cross-country skiers: Custom orthotics can significantly improve a skier’s performance in Nordic skiing, particularly in skate skiing. They dramatically enhance the skier’s ability to get onto the edge of the ski faster and provide a more efficient push-off.Â
"I dreamed about [custom orthotics} through my whole ski career. Now it exists, yay!"
Sadie Bjornsen Maubet
Olympic Cross Country Skier
Why SoloLab Orthotics?
At Runners’ Edge Alaska, we’ve chosen to partner with SoloLab for our custom orthotics service. SoloLab orthotics are renowned for their quality and effectiveness in sports medicine. Here’s why they’re an excellent choice for athletes and active Alaskans:
- Customization:Â Our orthotics are tailored to each individual’s foot structure and biomechanical needs, ensuring optimal support and comfort.Â
- Durability:Â Designed to withstand the rigors of athletic activities and Alaska’s challenging terrain, SoloLab orthotics are built to last.
- Performance-Oriented:Â These orthotics are specifically designed to enhance athletic performance by improving foot function and reducing the risk of injuries.Â
- Versatility:Â Whether you’re a runner, hiker, skier, or participate in various sports, orthotics here at Runners’ Edge can be customized for different activities and footwear.Â
The Science Behind Custom Orthotics
Research supports the effectiveness of custom orthotics for athletes. A systematic review published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research found that custom-made foot orthoses can be effective for the treatment of lower limb overuse conditions in athletes.
Getting Started with Custom Orthotics at Runners' Edge Alaska
Our team of experienced sports physical therapists at Runners’ Edge Alaska is ready to help you take your performance to the next level with custom SoloLab orthotics. Here’s what you can expect:
- Comprehensive Assessment:Â We’ll evaluate your foot structure, gait, and biomechanics to determine your specific needs.
- Custom Fitting:Â Using advanced technology, we’ll create a precise mold of your feet for your custom orthotics.
- Expert Craftsmanship:Â Your orthotics will be crafted by SoloLab’s skilled technicians to meet your unique requirements.
- Follow-Up Care:Â We’ll ensure your orthotics fit perfectly and provide the support you need, making adjustments as necessary.
Investing in custom orthotics is an investment in your athletic performance and overall foot health. AND we have great news, we can bill your insurance!
Whether you’re training for a marathon, enjoying Alaska’s hiking trails, or simply staying active, custom orthotics from Runners’ Edge Alaska can help you achieve your goals while minimizing the risk of injuries. Don’t let foot pain or discomfort hold you back. Contact us today to schedule your orthotics assessment and take the first step towards enhanced performance and comfort!Â
Appointments are limited- give us a call to schedule your orthotic assessment today! Call 907-929-9009.Â
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Sources:Â Bonanno, D. R., Landorf, K. B., Munteanu, S. E., Murley, G. S., & Menz, H. B. (2017). Effectiveness of foot orthoses and shock-absorbing insoles for the prevention of injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 51(2), 86-96.Â
Burns, J., Crosbie, J., Hunt, A., & Ouvrier, R. (2006). The effect of pes cavus on foot pain and plantar pressure. Clinical Biomechanics, 21(8), 837-844.
