Work boots are often judged by outward appearances, but the inside of your work boot is equally important in injury prevention. A work boot that is worn out or lacking proper support is an injury waiting to happen. Workers who are standing for most of the day are particularly susceptible to foot pain and injuries. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, more than one million pounds of pressure is put on your feet in one hour of strenuous activity. In a typical 8-10 hour work day, your feet take a lot of abuse.

Even workers who are not doing heavy lifting or strenuous activity are at risk for foot-related injuries. Prolonged standing reduces blood supply to the lower legs and feet, which can eventually cause bone misalignment and joint degeneration. Another common foot injury is plantar fasciitis, which is a strain in the heel area that causes pain under the heel while walking or running. More than two million Americans suffer from this condition.

Work boot insoles can provide arch support and offer shock absorption, which minimize the occurrence of foot-related injuries. This padding also makes work boots more comfortable. Many insoles are made of materials that have antimicrobial properties and odor-absorbing properties that protect your feet from fungus and bacteria. Insoles can also help to circulate air flow in your boots to control moisture and combat foot fatigue. Some industry leaders also believe that a good insole can boost employee productivity.

Materials used in Insoles

E.V.A. (Ethyl Vinyl Acetate): Lightweight cellular foam that is flexible and cushioning.

CM E.V.A.Compressed & molded EVA provides a better contour/shape.

Cupron: Odor-absorbing and antimicrobial thread.

Polyurethane: Cushioning foam that wicks away moisture and is heavier than E.V.A.

Poliyou®: Open cell polyurethane foam allows air to circulate freely.

Poron®: Lightweight cellular urethane.

Carbon Fiber: Resists abrasion.

Carbon Rubber: Dense rubber with a carbon additive that resists abrasion.

Memory Foam High density foam that holds shape for a custom fit.

Microfibre Durable synthetic material that is soft & breathable.

Neoprene A polychloroprene layer of thin closed cell foam.

Most of the work boots manufactured today are designed with a permanent or removable insole or footbed, which provides extra cushioning for the feet. Some insoles are better than others and even the best insoles will wear out with use leaving your feet unsupported. You can purchase over the counter insoles that will fit in any standard work boot, but beware that some gel-containing or cushioned inserts provide no stability or support for the foot. The ideal insert will have a combination of cushioning for comfort and arch support to control the normal collapse of the foot and prevent injuries. A negative feature to standard inserts is that every foot is different. A standard insert may not support a high arch or a flat foot in the way it needs to be supported.

Many podiatrists, chiropractors and physical therapists recommend using a type of insole called an orthotic. Orthotic-type insoles are sold over the counter for a moderate price, but many of these are still a standard design. Custom orthotics can be made to fit a person’s foot addressing the shape and height of the arch. These are more expensive, but they offer the ultimate support for the foot while also ensuring proper alignment of the pelvis and spine. An orthotic is made by using a plaster mold of the patient’s foot. The patient’s mold and a prescription are then sent to a laboratory where a specialized technician manufactures them. They can be made rigid, semi-rigid, soft or calibrated to offer the correct support an individual needs. Orthotics are recommended for workers who spend a lot of time on their feet, older adults with arthritis in their feet, diabetics, and anyone with a foot deformity.

Although work boot insoles might be the last thing on your mind during your busy work day, taking the time to add a better insole to your work boot will drastically improve your comfort, reduce foot pain and prevent injuries.

References:

"The Foot and Ankle" American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons 2001.

"Preventing Foot Pain in the Work Force" & "Improving Foot Protection" Occupational Hazards 2003-2004.

"When a Good Work Shoe Isn't Enough" & "Insole Insights" Occupational Health & Safety 2003-2007.

"Orthotics for Work Boots" The American Chiropractor 2003.