Best Shoes & Best Insoles

Foot Corn Removal Surgery [Causes & Best Treatment]

Foot corn removal surgery is not needed 95+% of the time. So you are in luck! Follow our foot corn removal process today!

Look!

  • Corns can be really painful!
  • Some early options are great shoes & seeing a  podiatrist.
  • We also offer our video thoughts below!

If you finally do need foot corn surgery, Let us HELP!

 

Foot Corn Removal Surgery Overview:

Foot Corn Removal Surgery is designed to wipe out highly resistant foot corns after conservative treatment has failed.

 

What Is It?

  • Foot corns are painful formations of thick skin on the foot and toes that look like a hard pebble.
  • Many people can even form a corn within a callus. This is a hard pebble surrounded by a softer callus over top of it.
  • There are many reasons and theories for why corns with calluses occur, but there is no point getting into it because the treatments are all the same!
Corn Removal Surgery: Causes & Best Treatment 2019
Removal surgery can be very effective if done by a podiatrist in the office within a few minutes! This does not have to cause pain or even very much downtime at all.

Why does it hurt?

  • Pain occurs from the corns and calluses because as you walk on them, they tear away from the skin underneath them, and it is possible to form a callus blister and even ulceration underneath them.
  • The goal of treatment is to reduce both corns and calluses and keep them soft and eventually remove the deformity or biomechanical problem that is causing them.
  • Foot Corn Surgery is rarely needed, but usually, foot corn is highly effective and prevents the corns from ever coming back.

Foot Corn (aka Heloma) vs Callus:

  • Corns are a form within the skin underneath the pressure areas of the foot, especially the toes. Skin callus formation can be large and spread out, whereas a corn is pinpointed, small and hard.
  • Corns usually occur under the first toe, the fifth toe, and on top of the toes if you have hammertoes, whereas a callus is usually underneath the forefoot.
  • Both can occur together- it is necessary to take the callus down then pop out the corn.
Corn & Callus Removal Surgery Treatment
Corns and calluses are the most common over the ball of the foot and between the toes. A corn is essentially a plugged sweat gland that goes deep down like a spike, whereas a callus is a flat buildup of hard skin in a pressure area of the foot. Both are similar. My corn is more narrow and spiky underneath.

Corn vs. Wart:

  • Skin lines go through a callus, whereas the skin lines go around the wart if you have a wart. The plantar wart also displays tiny red “dots” that are blood vessel growth into the wart. The callus should not have any red “dots.”
  • A corn will be lodged beneath the outer layers of the callus.

wart callus to the bottom of the foot verruca

Without trimming this down, it is hard to tell whether it is a corn or a wart.

Causes:

  • Walking barefoot or in poorly stitched shoes.
  • Wearing loose shoes or sandals.
  • High heels can cause pressure or friction.
  • High arched feet form calluses under the first toe, fifth toe, and heel.
  • A flat foot is a primary cause of increased pressure in areas of the foot, especially everywhere in the forefoot and inside of the foot and heel.
  • Rubbing in the tops of the toes against a tight shoe is also a leading cause of corn formation in the toes.

Symptoms:

  • Corn usually feels like a hard pebble stuck to your toes or in between the toes.
  • With continued pressure, it may feel like you are walking on a rock.
  • This may lead to bruising.
  • This may lead to numbness, burning, and tingling.
  • The more you walk on it, the more you may feel pain in pressure areas of your feet.

Diagnosis:

  • Your podiatrist can usually diagnose your foot corns and calluses by looking at them through a physical exam.
  • An x-ray may be ordered to rule out other underlying changes.
  • If the corner callous does look suspicious, your podiatrist may elect to perform a biopsy.
  • The main purpose of soft tissue biopsy is to rule out any further dangerous possibilities. This is usually a meager percentage chance of something dangerous occurring. But it is better to be safe than sorry.

Home Prevention

  • Get your foot size measured properly- check the width, the length, and the arch length. It is essential to have a wide toe box and an extra half size in the front of your shoe for your toes to wiggle. Avoid shoe gear pressing the fourth and fifth toes together.
  • You can use Jill’s footpads between your toes and around the calluses to prevent them from shearing against the shoe.
  • Foam or moleskin pads cut out around the callus and corn in a circle shape, preventing shearing force against the corn.
  • Change from cotton socks! Synthetic socks like those made from polyester are great for summer because they do not absorb sweat like cotton socks. This prevents skin friction and callus/corn formation. Synthetic wool socks are perfect for the winter because they keep you warm and prevent absorbing sweat.
  • You can put vaseline or petroleum oil in the areas where friction is most likely to occur or if you already have callus formation. Combine this method with the socks, and the callus pain should be dramatically decreased.
  • The calluses and corns need to be thinned down through the next section’s methods to prevent pain.

Treatment of Skin Calluses with Salicylic Acid

  • It is a “keratolytic” that kills the callus and turns it into a peeling dead skin that is more easily removed by debriding agents like an emery board or a pumice stone.
  • This may result in penetration of the skin.**Be careful if you have frail skin. You must use an antibiotic ointment and see a doctor immediately.

Home Treatment:

  • Soak your feet! It is straightforward to soak your feet and then grind away the skin with a pumice stone or an emery board. Soak your feet for at least fifteen to thirty minutes. It is possible to add Epsom Salts to improve the results.
  • The above point can be supplemented by applying salicylic acid to your skin callus after soaking. Try salicylic acid at night for a few nights to see if it decreases callus formation. Most commercial products rely on salicylic acid, and the process is detailed above.
  • Aloe Vera, Cocoa Butter, or Lotions + Socks is also perfect for calluses. Apply the agent of choice to the calluses when you go to bed at night, and over a few days, the calluses should start to decrease, and the socks should keep your sheets clean.
  • Use an emery board or a pumice stone can then be used to remove the callus for faster results.
  • If there is significant pain or tenderness after treating this would site, an antibiotic medication in case you cause bleeding or tear the skin.
  • Use gel pads for calluses between the toes. A bandaid can work, but there are fantastic products such as gel pads that will make your pain disappear, and you won’t even know that they are there. Jill’s footpads are available at most pharmacies and are very cheap.
  • Change from cotton socks! Synthetic socks like those made from polyester are great for summer because they do not absorb sweat like cotton socks. This prevents skin friction and callus/corn formation. Synthetic wool socks are perfect for the winter because they keep you warm and prevent absorbing sweat.
  • You can put vaseline or petroleum oil in the areas where friction is most likely to occur or if you already have callus formation. Combine this method with the socks, and the callus pain should be dramatically decreased.
  • Note: These can all be temporary methods if the callus is still tender. Seeing a podiatrist correct the deformity thorough biomechanical evaluation and X-ray to see something underneath the callus or corn.

When to see a podiatrist for Foot Corn Removal Surgery.

  • Get a biomechanical exam to determine why the corn continues to appear.
  • If the corn & callus is removed and the pain is still there for a long time means that you likely have a deformity in that area, and it may need to be surgically corrected.
  • All of the above methods are only temporary treatments. Skin calluses are usually due to a deformity that would need to be corrected.
  • Surgery is usually unnecessary unless there is a bone deformity, such as a hammertoe or a bunion. The calluses and corns will usually keep re-appearing if this problem is not corrected.

For more on Foot Corn Removal Surgery:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Corn_(medicine)

Home Treatment Products:

  • These are our favorite corn and callus prevention products.
  • The real key is to get pressure off the sites that create corns and calluses.
  • A podiatrist can help you trim out the corn in the callous initially, but with great products, this could reduce the likelihood of any more from developing.

Best Gel Pads:

  • These are the best gel pads.
  • These can work really well for hammertoes but don’t reverse the shape.

Best 5th Toe & Tailor’s Bunion Products:
Best Overall Gel Pad For 5th Toe Pain
Best Low Profile Tailor’s Bunion Gel Pad.
Best Low Profile Option For 4-5th Corn/Interspace Pain.
Best Non-Walking Stretching Option.
Best Tailor’s Bunion(Bunionette) Sock!
Povihome 10 Pack Pinky Toe Separator and Protectors, Triple Gel Toe Separators for Overlapping Toe, Curled Pinky Toes Separate and Protect
Lemon Hero Bunionette Corrector Pads - 6-Pack of Small Pinky Toe Tailors Bunion Pain Relief Protectors with Premium Gel Cushions - Best Foot Orthotics and Toe Straightener Sleeve. Unisex
Natracure Advanced Gel Toe Separator (w/Toe Loop) - Spacer, Corrector, Straightener to Cushion and Align Bent, Crooked, Overlapping Toes - Corns, Pinky Tailor Bunions - (1104-M CAT 2PK) - Size: Small
YogaToes GEMS: Gel Toe Stretcher & Separator - America’s Choice for Fighting Bunions, Hammer Toes (Small fits Shoe Sizes W: 7.5-11 / M: 7-10,) 1 Pair
Doctor's Choice Bunion Relief Quarter Sock with Split Toe Separator and Soft Cushioning for Hallux Valgus, (White/Black, Medium) Womens Shoe Size: 6-10
Price:
$9.99
$8.27
Price not available
$36.95
$17.99
Overview:
Best Overall Gel Pad: For 5th Toe and Tailor’s Bunion Pain
Good Tailor’s Bunion Gel Pad
Great Option For 4th-5th Toe Webspace Corns.
Great Heavy Duty Toe Separator (Not For Walking)
Price Range: $12+, Good value. Great reviews at 30+ reviews at 4.4/5
Pros:
Helps the 3rd, 4th and 5th toes. Heavy duty. Helps the entire area.
Lower profile, less bulky.
Slim and effective option for rubbing between the 4th and 5th toes.
Excellent reviews, great for stretching while resting.
They can be combined with gel pads as well as shoes and the sock. Another great layer of protection.
Cons:
These are more bulky. Can take up too much room in very slim shoes. These are not a splint! They are for pain relief.
Does not help the 3rd or 4th toe from pinching.
Zero benefit for tailor’s bunions and 5th metatarsal joint pain.
Can’t wear these while walking. Won’t work if you have osteoarthritis. (If your toes don’t bend).
Not perfect and by themselves may not fix your bunionette(tailor’s bunion) pain. They can break down over time.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best 5th Toe & Tailor’s Bunion Products:
Best Overall Gel Pad For 5th Toe Pain
Povihome 10 Pack Pinky Toe Separator and Protectors, Triple Gel Toe Separators for Overlapping Toe, Curled Pinky Toes Separate and Protect
Price:
$9.99
Overview:
Best Overall Gel Pad: For 5th Toe and Tailor’s Bunion Pain
Pros:
Helps the 3rd, 4th and 5th toes. Heavy duty. Helps the entire area.
Cons:
These are more bulky. Can take up too much room in very slim shoes. These are not a splint! They are for pain relief.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best 5th Toe & Tailor’s Bunion Products:
Best Low Profile Tailor’s Bunion Gel Pad.
Lemon Hero Bunionette Corrector Pads - 6-Pack of Small Pinky Toe Tailors Bunion Pain Relief Protectors with Premium Gel Cushions - Best Foot Orthotics and Toe Straightener Sleeve. Unisex
Price:
$8.27
Overview:
Good Tailor’s Bunion Gel Pad
Pros:
Lower profile, less bulky.
Cons:
Does not help the 3rd or 4th toe from pinching.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best 5th Toe & Tailor’s Bunion Products:
Best Low Profile Option For 4-5th Corn/Interspace Pain.
Natracure Advanced Gel Toe Separator (w/Toe Loop) - Spacer, Corrector, Straightener to Cushion and Align Bent, Crooked, Overlapping Toes - Corns, Pinky Tailor Bunions - (1104-M CAT 2PK) - Size: Small
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Great Option For 4th-5th Toe Webspace Corns.
Pros:
Slim and effective option for rubbing between the 4th and 5th toes.
Cons:
Zero benefit for tailor’s bunions and 5th metatarsal joint pain.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best 5th Toe & Tailor’s Bunion Products:
Best Non-Walking Stretching Option.
YogaToes GEMS: Gel Toe Stretcher & Separator - America’s Choice for Fighting Bunions, Hammer Toes (Small fits Shoe Sizes W: 7.5-11 / M: 7-10,) 1 Pair
Price:
$36.95
Overview:
Great Heavy Duty Toe Separator (Not For Walking)
Pros:
Excellent reviews, great for stretching while resting.
Cons:
Can’t wear these while walking. Won’t work if you have osteoarthritis. (If your toes don’t bend).
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best 5th Toe & Tailor’s Bunion Products:
Best Tailor’s Bunion(Bunionette) Sock!
Doctor's Choice Bunion Relief Quarter Sock with Split Toe Separator and Soft Cushioning for Hallux Valgus, (White/Black, Medium) Womens Shoe Size: 6-10
Price:
$17.99
Overview:
Price Range: $12+, Good value. Great reviews at 30+ reviews at 4.4/5
Pros:
They can be combined with gel pads as well as shoes and the sock. Another great layer of protection.
Cons:
Not perfect and by themselves may not fix your bunionette(tailor’s bunion) pain. They can break down over time.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Get Great Shoes:

  • Getting a great supportive pair of shoes will make sure that there is pressure removed from your hammertoes.
  • This can prevent corns, calluses, and spur formation.
  • This is especially important if you have plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or weak ankles.
  • Consider shoes combined with good supportive orthotics for the best pain relief!
  • The following link will show you what our favorites are.

Best Podiatrist Recommended Shoes

The real key to fix outside of the foot pain in order:

1) Most important is a good orthotic for your shoe.

  • Give these 1-2 weeks of effort, and you will really notice the pain relief.
  • This does not instantly fix the pain but prevents future damage.

2) Gel pad to offload the toe.

  • This will give your toes some cushion to keep pressure off the toes.
  • Read below to see the specific gel pads for each specific condition.

3) Ankle brace for the possible correction.

  • Check the recommended braces below.
  • For ankle pain, this is almost guaranteed to improve your problem.

4) Menthol-based cream for pain relief.

  • Creams and gels like Biofreeze act like ice but save you 20 minutes!
  • Check below for our recommended pain relief options.

Pain Relief:

  • Menthol-based creams have been studied medically, and shoe safety and excellent results.
  • This is not fluff. These are scientifically-backed!
  • Biofreeze is cost-effective and shows great results.
  • This is more for people who have difficulty sleeping or walking due to significant issues.

Best Foot & Ankle Muscle/Ligament Pain Relief Products
Best & Proven Pain Relieving Gel.
Roll On Version of Biofreeze Gel.
A giant container of value size biofreeze.
Menthol Based Ointment with Hemp Extract
Biofreeze Pain Relief Gel, Arthritis Pain Reliver, Knee & Lower Back Pain Relief, Sore Muscle Relief, Neck Pain Relief, Pharmacist Recommended, FSA Eligible, 3 Pack (4 FL OZ Biofreeze Menthol Gel)
Biofreeze Pain Relief Roll-On, 3 oz. Roll-On, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, & Powerful Topical Pain Reliever, Pack of 3 (Packaging May Vary)
Biofreeze Menthol Pain Relieving Gel 1 Gallon Bottle With Pump Topical Pain Relief For Sore Muscles, Arthritis, Backache, And Joint Pain, Original Green Formula, (Packaging May Vary)
HEMPACTIV Joint & Muscle Relief Cream, Infused with Hemp, Menthol, MSM & Arnica, Soothe Discomfort in Your Back, Muscles, Joints, Neck, Shoulder, Knee, Nerves - 2 Fl Oz
Price:
$34.95
$29.95
$175.00
$19.99
Overview:
The Proven and Scientifically Published Menthol Based Gel
Same as biofreeze gel, but the roll-on is prefered by some people for their feet, less messy.
8.1 lbs(3.67 kg) of Value Sized Biofreeze!
This is an alternative cream: Basically Biofreeze + hemp extract.
Pros:
Scientifically proven to loosen up and relief pain up to 2x longer than Ice. Less effort than ice and great reviews. 900+ 5 star reviews on Amazon.
The roll-on application of this biofreeze can be easier to apply. Less overall mess.
If you know you already love it and trust the reviews. This is a great value that lasts a long time.
It has great reviews, loved by the all natural crowd. 100s of 5 star reviews with a near perfect rating.
Cons:
Don’t put this on open sores or mucous membranes, it will burn! It can run out quick and doesn’t prevent pain, just helps it.
Not as easy to spread in other areas, main difference is the roll on applicator, same solution.
A gigantic bottle that could fall over and injure you! Seriously this could be too big in some situations.
Basically looks like menthol(active Biofreeze ingredient), but with hemp extract SKYROCKETING the price.
Important Tips:
Menthol is the active ingredient in this and other hemp based creams. It works similar to ice, but once you apply it you can just move on rather than waiting 20 minutes. **Works great to get your through the night if you have pain sleeping**
Roll-on method is best for the bottom of the feet. No other real advantage. Most patients like it prior to bed for easy sleeping without foot pain.
If you know you love it, this stuff works all over the sore areas in your body not just your foot. I have had many people get me to order this for them in the past and LOVED IT!
The hemp extract is almost nothing and likely a marketing gimmick. It’s basically Biofreeze with some hemp extract raising the price.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot & Ankle Muscle/Ligament Pain Relief Products
Best & Proven Pain Relieving Gel.
Biofreeze Pain Relief Gel, Arthritis Pain Reliver, Knee & Lower Back Pain Relief, Sore Muscle Relief, Neck Pain Relief, Pharmacist Recommended, FSA Eligible, 3 Pack (4 FL OZ Biofreeze Menthol Gel)
Price:
$34.95
Overview:
The Proven and Scientifically Published Menthol Based Gel
Pros:
Scientifically proven to loosen up and relief pain up to 2x longer than Ice. Less effort than ice and great reviews. 900+ 5 star reviews on Amazon.
Cons:
Don’t put this on open sores or mucous membranes, it will burn! It can run out quick and doesn’t prevent pain, just helps it.
Important Tips:
Menthol is the active ingredient in this and other hemp based creams. It works similar to ice, but once you apply it you can just move on rather than waiting 20 minutes. **Works great to get your through the night if you have pain sleeping**
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot & Ankle Muscle/Ligament Pain Relief Products
Roll On Version of Biofreeze Gel.
Biofreeze Pain Relief Roll-On, 3 oz. Roll-On, Fast Acting, Long Lasting, & Powerful Topical Pain Reliever, Pack of 3 (Packaging May Vary)
Price:
$29.95
Overview:
Same as biofreeze gel, but the roll-on is prefered by some people for their feet, less messy.
Pros:
The roll-on application of this biofreeze can be easier to apply. Less overall mess.
Cons:
Not as easy to spread in other areas, main difference is the roll on applicator, same solution.
Important Tips:
Roll-on method is best for the bottom of the feet. No other real advantage. Most patients like it prior to bed for easy sleeping without foot pain.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot & Ankle Muscle/Ligament Pain Relief Products
A giant container of value size biofreeze.
Biofreeze Menthol Pain Relieving Gel 1 Gallon Bottle With Pump Topical Pain Relief For Sore Muscles, Arthritis, Backache, And Joint Pain, Original Green Formula, (Packaging May Vary)
Price:
$175.00
Overview:
8.1 lbs(3.67 kg) of Value Sized Biofreeze!
Pros:
If you know you already love it and trust the reviews. This is a great value that lasts a long time.
Cons:
A gigantic bottle that could fall over and injure you! Seriously this could be too big in some situations.
Important Tips:
If you know you love it, this stuff works all over the sore areas in your body not just your foot. I have had many people get me to order this for them in the past and LOVED IT!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Foot & Ankle Muscle/Ligament Pain Relief Products
Menthol Based Ointment with Hemp Extract
HEMPACTIV Joint & Muscle Relief Cream, Infused with Hemp, Menthol, MSM & Arnica, Soothe Discomfort in Your Back, Muscles, Joints, Neck, Shoulder, Knee, Nerves - 2 Fl Oz
Price:
$19.99
Overview:
This is an alternative cream: Basically Biofreeze + hemp extract.
Pros:
It has great reviews, loved by the all natural crowd. 100s of 5 star reviews with a near perfect rating.
Cons:
Basically looks like menthol(active Biofreeze ingredient), but with hemp extract SKYROCKETING the price.
Important Tips:
The hemp extract is almost nothing and likely a marketing gimmick. It’s basically Biofreeze with some hemp extract raising the price.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Best Orthotics:

Our Recommended Orthotics To Stop Outward Compression:

  • Orthotics are the single most important way to improve your outside of the foot pain, Seriously!
  • Most people don’t think orthotics will fix their foot pain.
  • Besides trauma,  95% of all 5th toe, middle of the foot, and outside of the ankle pain can be improved with orthotics.
  • This is because orthotics help your foot from twisting out and compressing against your shoe when you walk.
  • Would you please not take our word for it? Read the reviews!

Most Important Tips For Orthotics:

  • Make sure you have a roomy enough shoe.
  • I’m warning you right now, don’t try to stuff a full-length orthotic into a tiny tight shoe. It won’t work.
  • If you have tighter or dress shoes: try the dress shoe or 3/4″ orthotics.

These orthotics are for slimmer shoes without laces:

  • If you are tight in the front of your shoes, or the shoes are tighter, these 3/4″ might be the best choice for you.
  • But if you have a choice, the full-length orthotics are much, much more supportive!
  • So if you wear work boots or running shoes, get the full length. They get you more support.

Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Overall Orthotic For Everything (Medium Thick Fit)
Best Heavy Duty Orthotic (Thickest Fit)
Best SOFTER Choice For Sensitive Feet (Medium Thick Fit)
Best Women’s Orthotics
PowerStep Original Insoles - Arch Pain Relief Orthotics for Tight Shoes - Foot Support for Plantar Fasciitis, Mild Pronation and Foot & Arch Pain - Shoe Inserts for All (M 8-8.5, F 10-10.5)
Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx Orthotic Insoles - Orthotics for Overpronation with Maximum Stability & Comfort - Firm + Flexible Angled Heel Style to Help Flat Feet - Heavy Duty Inserts (M 10-10.5, F 12)
[New 2024] Orthotic Work Insoles - Work Boot Insoles for Standing All Day - Anti Fatigue Medium Arch Support Shoe Insoles Men Women Insert for Plantar Fasciitis Flat Feet Leg Feet Pain Relief Size XL
Superfeet All-Purpose Women's High Impact Support Insoles (Berry) - Trim-To-Fit Orthotic Arch Support Inserts for Women's Running Shoes - Professional Grade - Size 8.5-10 Women
Price:
$42.46
$47.66
Price not available
$59.95
Overview:
These work best in shoes with laces and running shoes. Not good for dress shoes or women’s cute shoes.
Biggest and most corrective option. Only use for running shoes or work boots. Not cute shoes.
These are full length inserts, but softer. Great if you can’t tolerate the firmer ones. Best for very sore and sensitive feet.
Great Support & Better Fit
Pros:
Pretty much guaranteed to help you if it fits in your shoes and you give it 2 weeks to get used to. 5,000+ amazon reviews, great track record.
My personal favorite, but not for everyone. Amazing reviews over 3,500. But not for everyone. Only for bigger shoes that can fit them
They are softer and the initial break in time is AMAZING. But longer term benefits are less. >500 Almost 5 star amazon rating.
Sleek, supportive and have a better fit than the orthotics above.
Cons:
Do not wear these in cute or dress shoes!
Bigger and bulkier than all the other ones. You will be dissappointed if you have a cute women’s shoe or dress shoe. This is meant for running shoes and boots.
Great to start with, but don’t correct long term as much as the other ones.
A little bit more expensive.
Crucial Tips:
Ease in to these, 1-2hrs a day. They are like braces for your teeth, they suck at the beginning! But they will make your feet pain free as 1-2 weeks go by. Don’t give up on them after 1 or 2 days. Everyone feels off at the beginning!
This has the most correction, but hardest break in time! IF SENSITIVE, USE A SOFTER PAIR FIRST! But if you get these, you must break them in. Give it 1-2 hours a day, but then you will start to have excellent results. The bad reviews are all people who couldn’t fit it into their shoes and gave up too quickly. You have been WARNED!
If you are very sore, TRY THESE FIRST! These are easiest to break in with initially. If you are very sore and rigid, don’t use the heavy duty ones to start with.
These will have a harder time fitting in flats and pointed shoes.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Overall Orthotic For Everything (Medium Thick Fit)
PowerStep Original Insoles - Arch Pain Relief Orthotics for Tight Shoes - Foot Support for Plantar Fasciitis, Mild Pronation and Foot & Arch Pain - Shoe Inserts for All (M 8-8.5, F 10-10.5)
Price:
$42.46
Overview:
These work best in shoes with laces and running shoes. Not good for dress shoes or women’s cute shoes.
Pros:
Pretty much guaranteed to help you if it fits in your shoes and you give it 2 weeks to get used to. 5,000+ amazon reviews, great track record.
Cons:
Do not wear these in cute or dress shoes!
Crucial Tips:
Ease in to these, 1-2hrs a day. They are like braces for your teeth, they suck at the beginning! But they will make your feet pain free as 1-2 weeks go by. Don’t give up on them after 1 or 2 days. Everyone feels off at the beginning!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Heavy Duty Orthotic (Thickest Fit)
Powerstep Pinnacle Maxx Orthotic Insoles - Orthotics for Overpronation with Maximum Stability & Comfort - Firm + Flexible Angled Heel Style to Help Flat Feet - Heavy Duty Inserts (M 10-10.5, F 12)
Price:
$47.66
Overview:
Biggest and most corrective option. Only use for running shoes or work boots. Not cute shoes.
Pros:
My personal favorite, but not for everyone. Amazing reviews over 3,500. But not for everyone. Only for bigger shoes that can fit them
Cons:
Bigger and bulkier than all the other ones. You will be dissappointed if you have a cute women’s shoe or dress shoe. This is meant for running shoes and boots.
Crucial Tips:
This has the most correction, but hardest break in time! IF SENSITIVE, USE A SOFTER PAIR FIRST! But if you get these, you must break them in. Give it 1-2 hours a day, but then you will start to have excellent results. The bad reviews are all people who couldn’t fit it into their shoes and gave up too quickly. You have been WARNED!
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best SOFTER Choice For Sensitive Feet (Medium Thick Fit)
[New 2024] Orthotic Work Insoles - Work Boot Insoles for Standing All Day - Anti Fatigue Medium Arch Support Shoe Insoles Men Women Insert for Plantar Fasciitis Flat Feet Leg Feet Pain Relief Size XL
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
These are full length inserts, but softer. Great if you can’t tolerate the firmer ones. Best for very sore and sensitive feet.
Pros:
They are softer and the initial break in time is AMAZING. But longer term benefits are less. >500 Almost 5 star amazon rating.
Cons:
Great to start with, but don’t correct long term as much as the other ones.
Crucial Tips:
If you are very sore, TRY THESE FIRST! These are easiest to break in with initially. If you are very sore and rigid, don’t use the heavy duty ones to start with.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Medium to Heavy Duty Heel Pain Orthotics:
Best Women’s Orthotics
Superfeet All-Purpose Women's High Impact Support Insoles (Berry) - Trim-To-Fit Orthotic Arch Support Inserts for Women's Running Shoes - Professional Grade - Size 8.5-10 Women
Price:
$59.95
Overview:
Great Support & Better Fit
Pros:
Sleek, supportive and have a better fit than the orthotics above.
Cons:
A little bit more expensive.
Crucial Tips:
These will have a harder time fitting in flats and pointed shoes.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Full-length orthotics give you the most correction and improvement:

  • If you have roomy enough shoes like running shoes or work boots. Get a full-length orthotic.
  • The cushion under the front of your foot prevents it from twisting out against the outside of your shoe as much as possible.
  • These are one of the best possible options for the medium and heavy-duty correction!

Best Flat Shoe (Non-Lace Up) Orthotics:
Best Choice For Tight Women’s Shoes or High Heels..
Powerstep SlenderFit Fashion Orthotic-W
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
These are the best fitting for the most narrow shoes. Some but not great correction.
Pros:
They will fit in even the tightest shoes! Guaranteed to make you feel better, but you know what you are getting in a tight shoes. Great reviews and price.
Cons:
At the end of the day high heels and slender orthotics help, but never cure all your pain. Make the best of a painful shoe!
Crucial Tips:
**WARNING***: If your shoe almost just barely fits onto your foot, this WILL NOT FIT! Be aware, it still needs a small amount of space to fit.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Flat Shoe (Non-Lace Up) Orthotics:
Best Choice For Tight Women’s Shoes or High Heels..
Powerstep SlenderFit Fashion Orthotic-W
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
These are the best fitting for the most narrow shoes. Some but not great correction.
Pros:
They will fit in even the tightest shoes! Guaranteed to make you feel better, but you know what you are getting in a tight shoes. Great reviews and price.
Cons:
At the end of the day high heels and slender orthotics help, but never cure all your pain. Make the best of a painful shoe!
Crucial Tips:
**WARNING***: If your shoe almost just barely fits onto your foot, this WILL NOT FIT! Be aware, it still needs a small amount of space to fit.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Dress Shoe orthotics:

  • These are premium leather orthotic recommendations for dress shoes.
  • If you have a tight dress shoe get the 3/4″ orthotic.

Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Best Fitting Dress Shoe Orthotic (3/4″)
Best Full Length Dress Orthotic.
Great Heavy Duty Insole for Men
Powerstep Signature Dress 3/4-Length Insoles – Dress Shoe Insoles for Men and Women
Powerstep Signature Dress Full-Length Insoles for Men and Women
Superfeet Casual Men's Easyfit Insoles - Comfort Shoe Inserts for Men - Anti-Fatigue Orthotic Insoles for Dress Shoes - Professional Grade - Size 7.5-9 Men
Price:
Price not available
Price not available
$34.95
Overview:
This is my top choice due to best fit. It is a little less supportive than full length, but fit is the key in dress shoes!
Best option if you can fit a full length orthotic. This does give you most control.
Great price and heavy duty insole for Oxford shoes.
Pros:
Excellent overall fit. This will fit in almost every dress shoe. Excellent reviews and reasonable cost overall. Can’t go wrong in most cases.
Great color dress option. Not the most corrective, but very color and dress appropriate. Great Reviews. Better correction and relief than the 3/4″ length.
These fit in most shoes and have really good predictable results
Cons:
Less correction than full length and heavy duty orthotics.
These can have a poor fit in in some shoes. If you have tight shoes, DO NOT BUY the full length orthotic! You have been warned.
They are not full length and thus do not provide as much support
Crucial Tips:
If you haven’t used dress orthotics before, get this one and avoid poor fit. If you wear dress shoes every day with room, the full length might give you more support.
This is will work great in most men’s shoes that are not pointy. If you have a rounded toe box, this will probably work well. If a tight shoe go with the 3/4″ length.
Get these for Oxford and pointed shoes. This will provide best results.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Best Fitting Dress Shoe Orthotic (3/4″)
Powerstep Signature Dress 3/4-Length Insoles – Dress Shoe Insoles for Men and Women
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
This is my top choice due to best fit. It is a little less supportive than full length, but fit is the key in dress shoes!
Pros:
Excellent overall fit. This will fit in almost every dress shoe. Excellent reviews and reasonable cost overall. Can’t go wrong in most cases.
Cons:
Less correction than full length and heavy duty orthotics.
Crucial Tips:
If you haven’t used dress orthotics before, get this one and avoid poor fit. If you wear dress shoes every day with room, the full length might give you more support.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Best Full Length Dress Orthotic.
Powerstep Signature Dress Full-Length Insoles for Men and Women
Price:
Price not available
Overview:
Best option if you can fit a full length orthotic. This does give you most control.
Pros:
Great color dress option. Not the most corrective, but very color and dress appropriate. Great Reviews. Better correction and relief than the 3/4″ length.
Cons:
These can have a poor fit in in some shoes. If you have tight shoes, DO NOT BUY the full length orthotic! You have been warned.
Crucial Tips:
This is will work great in most men’s shoes that are not pointy. If you have a rounded toe box, this will probably work well. If a tight shoe go with the 3/4″ length.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):
Best Dress Shoe Orthotics:
Great Heavy Duty Insole for Men
Superfeet Casual Men's Easyfit Insoles - Comfort Shoe Inserts for Men - Anti-Fatigue Orthotic Insoles for Dress Shoes - Professional Grade - Size 7.5-9 Men
Price:
$34.95
Overview:
Great price and heavy duty insole for Oxford shoes.
Pros:
These fit in most shoes and have really good predictable results
Cons:
They are not full length and thus do not provide as much support
Crucial Tips:
Get these for Oxford and pointed shoes. This will provide best results.
Affiliate Link (Buying through these links will connect you to Amazon):

Other in-office surgeries our podiatrists provide:

Best Shoes & Best Insoles

What a Podiatrist Can Do For YOU!

Balance Foot & Ankle Podiatrists & Foot Doctors

Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists Brighton Michigan

455 E Grand River Ave, #202 Brighton, MI 48116
Fax Number: 248-707-2827

Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists Livingston County

455 E Grand River Ave, #202 Brighton, MI 48116
Fax Number: 248-707-2827

Balance Home Care & Wound Care

455 E Grand River Ave, #202 Brighton, MI 48116
Fax Number: 248-707-2827

11 Reasons To Choose US!

  1. 🥇 We work hard for YOUR Satisfaction. (If you’re not 100% satisfied with your appointment, we WILL do everything we can to FIX IT for you.) Terms & Conditions.
  2. 🦶The BEST Podiatrists: Board Certified in Foot Surgery & Board Certified in Podiatric Medicine for all of your foot & ankle needs!
  3. 💻Telehealth appointment from the comfort of your own home!
  4. 🚗 You Can Park 100% for Free Right Outside The Door.
  5. 📲 You Can Book Online 24/7 Right From Your Phone.
  6. 🌙 You Can Get A Late Appointment Or Seen Outside of Regular Hours……No Need To Take Time Off Work.
  7. 🏠 If you cannot come to see us due to health issues or immobility… We can come to see YOU!
  8. 💉 The BEST Tools: In-office X-ray, In-office fluoroscopy, In-office ultrasound, injections, skin treatment, and in-office surgical suite. We are trained to use the NEWEST equipment.
  9. 📞 You Can Take Up Our Offer for a Phone or Telehealth Consult With Our Podiatry Team before you arrive if you are unsure if we can help you.
  10. 🏥 A professional cutting edge surgical suite staffed by residency trained Board Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeons: Minimally Invasive Surgery!
  11. 👣You Get Treated By Podiatrists Who Specialize In the Foot & Ankle, So They KNOW What’s Needed To Get You Back On Your Feet.
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Prime Foot & Ankle Specialists - Podiatrists & Foot Doctors

4.9 298 reviews

  • Joseph Russo ★★★★★ 3 weeks ago
    I'm 54 years old, and I'm always enlighten by the info I get from this channel. We can never stop learning to better … More our health.
  • Amy Corbett ★★★★★ a month ago
    This channel is so informative! Thank you for being quick but thorough! And I love hearing the OTC stuff & what works … More for many of your patients! Thank you! 🙏🥰
  • The Metal Encyclopedia No Crap ★★★★★ a month ago
    I was in sever pain. The doc recommended taping my toe in a certain way to correct my capsulitus. I cannot believe the difference … More in one day!

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