Can An Emerging Technology Reinvent Sport-Specific OTC Insoles?

Combining an ultra-light quality with zero heel drop, rebound forefoot padding and a technology that emphasizes sensory stimulation to reduce stress on the foot, emerging OTC insoles may be game-changers for athletes. 

CURREX says its multiprofile OTC insoles offer a true dynamic arch concept and support based on body weight and gait. The company says its patented Dynamic Arch Technology is flexible, engaging and works with the muscles of the foot through sensory stimulation. Upon contact, the release of this sensory stimulation provides midfoot guidance and returns stored energy to the foot, reducing joint, ligament and tendon stress, according to CURREX. 

CURREX shares that each type of the company’s sport-specific insoles come in three different arch profiles (high, medium and low), each with a different shape to achieve 100 percent foot contact. In addition, the company says all the insoles are ultra-light and feature an array of features including zero heel drop, deep heel cup, active moisture management, free flex memory foam, a poron heel element and rebound forefoot padding. 

Michael Chin, DPM, FACFAS, FAAPSM says CURREX insoles have transformed how he provides comfort to runners. 

“I am a firm believer that a softer, more flexible orthotic device can ease the transitions of the impact and load of a runner in comparison to rigid devices,” notes Dr. Chin, the Medical Director of the Running Institute in Chicago. “(CURREX) mimics my prescription orthotic designs quite closely.” 

Robert Conenello, DPM, FACFAS, FAAPSM first learned of the CURREX brand six years ago and finds the unique design aligns with his treatment philosophy of strengthening the feet while maintaining control in the least amount of shoe appropriate for the athlete. He says the devices offer freedom of movement as well as individual dynamic support and comfort. 

In his experience with the CURREX CLEATPRO^™ insoles for soccer, Howard Liebeskind, DPM, FAAPSM, AOSSM (MD Affiliate) says players experience significantly improved comfort in comparison to a sock liner alone. He also notes that these insoles can assist in preventing and treating conditions such as calcaneal apophysitis, plantar fasciitis and tendinopathies. 

Drs. Chin and Conenello agree that the specificity and customizability of the insoles as an outstanding feature of the product line. 

The insoles may also play a role for some patients with barriers to obtaining a custom orthotic, whether the obstacle is financial in nature or based on past poor experiences, says Dr. Chin. He maintains that the CURREX line offers comfortable and affordable therapeutic options. 

Using the insoles as a first-line treatment for overuse injuries, Dr. Conenello, the Clinical Director for Special Olympics New Jersey, finds they are especially exceptional for youth athletes. 

“Too often, these patients do not have great choices when it comes to sport-specific athletic shoes,” notes Dr. Conenello. “(The CURREX insoles) enhance their current shoes and act as adjuncts to strength and proprioceptive control.” 

Dr. Liebeskind cites the sport-specific design as being a wise addition to cleats. 

“The CLEATPRO is engineered for optimal performance on the pitch. Its biometric design easily fits the narrow footplates and low profile inherent to soccer shoes without sacrificing control, comfort, stability and grip,” says Dr. Liebeskind, Team Podiatrist for the United States Men’s and Women’s Soccer Teams.