• Shock Absorbing Insoles Guide

    The Great North Run is the largest mass participation half marathon in the world. Over 47,000 people ran the flat, fast course through Newcastle, Gateshead and South Tyneside. During the 13.1 miles each runner took over 20,000 steps with their body, absorbing the considerable stresses which can lead to injuries. That’s why during both short and long distance runs, shock absorbing insoles can help prevent injury to runners of all level

    What are they?

    Shock absorbing insoles are made from a lightweight vibro-absorbent elastomer which has elastic properties that can act as a shock absorber. Energy is absorbed by the insole during every foot strike, which substantially decreases the energy that has to be absorbed by the joints and soft tissues of the body.

    By reducing the stresses on the joints and soft tissues of the body, Shock Absorbing Insoles can substantially reduce the risk of sustaining common overuse injuries such as stress fractures of the lower limbs, pelvis and back; tendon problems, shin splints and disc related back injuries.

    Who uses them?

    Many elite runners recognise the benefits of good shock absorption that can be gained from shock absorbing insoles. Recreational runners can also benefit from the reduced injury risk provided by these insoles.

    No matter what your personal best time, you can improve it by staying injury free to ensure no training time is lost. After all, at this stage in your preparation, can you afford to miss training with a running related overuse injury?

    When to use them

    Shock absorbing insoles are ideal for distance runners of all abilities. They can be easily inserted in your running shoes in order to reduce stresses and the risk of injury during training for 10km, half-marathon and marathon runners. A stress fracture will typically require 3 months complete rest in order to heal – so prevention is the best policy if you want to avoid starting from scratch with your distance training.

    What conditions are they commonly used to treat and prevent?

    • Shin splints (Medial tibial stress syndrome)
    • Tendon problems (Tibialis posterior tendon problems)
    • Stress fracture of the shin (Tibial stress fractures)
    • Stress fracture of the pelvis (Pelvic stress fractures)
    • Lower back stress fractures (spondylolysis)
    • Achilles tendon problems (Achilles tendinopathy)
    • Patella tendon problems (Patella tendinopathy)
    • Slipped disc (disc prolapse)

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