Table of Contents:
- Overview
- Selection Criteria
- Our Top Picks
- 1. Superfeet All Purpose Memory Foam Support Insoles
- 2. Spenco All Day Comfort Diabetic Plus Insoles
- 3. Cushwork Heavy-Duty Orthotics
- 4. Currex Metpad Everyday Support Insoles
- 5. Dr. Scholl’s Revitalize Recovery Orthotics for Neuropathy
- 6. Walkhero Comfort and Support Orthotics for Neuropathy
- 7. Walkomfy Heavy Duty Pain Relief Orthotics
- Orthotics for Neuropathy – What To Know
- Conclusion
Overview
Metabolic health issues such as diabetes, genetics, or traumatic injuries can sometimes cause nerve damage or peripheral neuropathy. When you have neuropathy, the pain receptors of your feet are slowly damaged, making it harder to feel sensations. The condition is often characterized by ‘pins and needles’ or a tingling, shooting, or stabbing pain under your feet. Foot neuropathy also increases the risk of injuries and complications such as loss of balance and Charcot’s foot. But can this be minimized? Using podiatrist-recommended orthotics for neuropathy, accompanied by certain lifestyle modifications is a proven way to reduce pain, while also significantly improving comfort and mobility.
Why does Orthotics for Neuropathy work? Wearing insoles that are specifically designed to address the concerns of neuropathy helps in restoration of proprioception (sense of movement). It also enhances sensory feedback. Such orthotics improve balance and stability, so you can smoothly leverage all your daily activities.
Selection Criteria
NOT all orthotics may be labeled as neuropathy or diabetic-friendly insoles. Therefore, after months of research and thorough testing of 100+ insoles on suitable candidates, we finally shortlisted, reviewed, and rated the 7 best orthotics for neuropathy.
Furthermore, these insoles were assessed on the basis of comfort, pain relief, support, and value. After 4 months of use, ~80% of our candidates experienced a uniform decrease in neuropathy-related discomfort and better distribution of foot pressure.
Note that since peripheral neuropathy can be a complicated condition, it is important to consult your doctor before you opt for orthotic treatments.
Our Top Picks
Best Overall:
Superfeet All Purpose Memory Foam Support at Amazon for $62
Best Runner-up:
Cushwork Heavy Duty Orthotics at Amazon for $39.99
Best for Diabetic Neuropathy:
Spenco Diabetic Plus Insoles at Amazon for $32.99
Best for Pain Relief:
Currex Metpad Everyday Support Insoles at Amazon for $59.95
Best Budget-friendly:
Dr. Scholl’s Revitalize Recovery Insoles at Amazon for $16.99
Best for Everyday Use:
WalkHero Comfort and Support Orthotics for Neuropathy at Amazon for $17.99
Best for High-Impact Activities:
Walkomfy Heavy Duty Pain Relief Orthotics at Amazon for $45.99
Best Overall:
Stride Soles custom orthotics $137
1. Superfeet All Purpose Memory Foam Support Insoles
Rating:
Comfort 5/5 Support 5/5 Pain Relief 4/5 Value 4/5
Why do we like it?
Peripheral neuropathy can sometimes affect even the simplest of routine activities. To ease the episodes of shooting pain and imbalances, we recommend the Superfeet All Purpose Memory Foam Insoles. If you are someone who has to spend long hours at work or for heavy-duty activities, these insoles certainly give you the most optimum performance you need.
Unlike others, this copper model from Superfeet, has an extra cushioning, which efficiently takes extra pressure off the feet. It has both a heel cup and a stabilizer cup to provide structure, stability, and support to the foam layer. Over time, these pressure-reducing points will help in minimizing the signs and symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.
After trials and heavy-duty usage, the Superfeet All Purpose orthotics have been verified to last for a long time.
It’s Worth Noting
Quite explicitly, these insoles will feel like a pillow to your feet! They have a ‘flexible accommodating design’, made of memory foam that captures the accurate shape of your feet. So, it makes sense why these high-quality insoles ensure smooth and stable walking or movement.
Product Details:
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Ideal Shoe Type: Casual and work shoes.
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Available sizes: Men – 5.5 to 15. Women – 5 to 14. Kids – 2.5 to 4.
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Unique features: Plush comfort. Pressure-relieving foam. Moderately-firm underfoot cushioning.
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Materials: Foam.
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Price: $54.99.
2. Spenco All Day Comfort Diabetic Plus Insoles
Rating:
Comfort 4.5/5 Support 4/5 Pain Relief 4.5/5 Value 4.5/5
Why do we like it?
The Spenco Medics Diabetic Plus Insoles are exclusively crafted for diabetic foot that is prone to neuropathy and discomfort.
Meanwhile, the key cushioning material used here is memory foam. On wearing these insoles, you can immediately experience personalized cushioning and a relaxed feel at the pressure points. The technology used by them is called ‘POD-GRF’ and ‘Total Support’ Technology, which runs throughout its length and breadth. Since the heel and the forefoot area are the areas of high impact, extra padding is thoughtfully provided here for increased protection.
It’s Worth Noting
The Spenco Diabetic Plus insoles also come with a Plastazote foam top cover to help eliminate pressure points on sensitive feet. Consequently, we found these to be best suitable for everyday activities like walking, yoga, light exercises, or standing for long periods.
Product Details:
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Ideal Shoe Type: Casual, dress, golf, running, hiking, cross training, or work wear.
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Available sizes: Men – 4 to 15.5. Women – 5 to 14.5.
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Unique features: Deep heel cup stabilizes and cradles. The top cover and memory foam bed improve impact suppression and eliminate pressure points. Strong footbed for cushioning and comfort.
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Materials: Foam.
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Price: $54.99.
3. Cushwork Heavy-Duty Orthotics
Rating:
Comfort 4.5/5 Support 4/5 Pain Relief 4/5 Value 4/5
Why do we like it?
Whether you are diagnosed with Morton’s Neuroma, or foot issues like metatarsalgia or ball of foot pain – the Cushwork Heavy-Duty Orthotics would be the best supportive treatment for you. Quite interestingly, our testers used these insoles for over 6 months, and they also experienced major relief with both peripheral and diabetic neuropathy.
But what makes it different is that it has five layers of superior support and pressure-releasing comfort. Much unlike others, the combination of heavy duty semi-rigid plate, an EVA foam base heel cup for rear foot control, and a comfortable memory foam cushion give that extra edge of full-length comfort and stability throughout your feet. Also, it helps in reducing the risk of overpronation or supination while walking or running.
It’s Worth Noting
It may take at least 2 weeks to adjust and experience improvements. Note that these insoles are specially crafted for easing pain and discomfort in the forefoot area.
Product Details:
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Ideal Shoe Type: All casual, athletic, and work shoes with a wide-toe box.
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Available sizes: Men – 4 to 14.5. Women – 5 to 14.
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Unique features: 3XK pain relief technology. Rear foot control and metatarsal support. Helps redistribute weight. Also, improves foot health and gait.
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Materials: Foam, PU, Fabric.
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Price: $39.99.
4. Currex Metpad Everyday Support Insoles
Rating:
Comfort 4/5 Support 4/5 Pain Relief 3.5/5 Value 3.5/5
Why do we like it?
Did you know that using insoles that match the height of your feet arches have a better contouring effect, and are thus essential for improving peripheral neuropathy? Accordingly, you should always look for insoles with optimum arch support for an overall improvement in foot health and alignment.
Nonetheless, to make it to the list, we have the Currex Metapad Insoles that comes in three variants – Low, Medium, and High arch support. Fine-tuning to your requirements, this also gives you a custom-like feel with better support and alignment.
Furthermore, the insoles are made of six different parts. This, eventually, allows it to fold at the major flex points. Unlike other brands that have a one-piece design, it has better flexibility and comfort.
Summing up, our testers confirmed that the Currex Metapad Orthotics for neuropathy are best suitable for everyday activities like walking, standing, or light work. They are neuropathy-friendly as they come with a ‘metatarsal dome’ that eliminates pressure points in sensitive individuals. Indeed, it is a great pick for seniors and anyone with a ball of foot pain or neuropathy.
It’s Worth Noting
The Currex Metapad is designed to prevent injuries and maximize performance for all light activities. Also, relieves stress on joints and locks the foot in place for improved stability.
Product Details:
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Ideal Shoe Type: Walking, dress, casual shoes, and sneakers.
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Available sizes: Men – 3 to 14.5. Women – 4.5 to 17. Kids – 13.5 to 2.
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Unique features: Flexible arch. Multiprofile arch support – Low, Medium, and High. 60-day guarantee. Dual-layer cushioning. Targeted forefront cushioning. Also, it has a deep decoupled heel.
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Materials: Foam, Mesh cover.
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Price: $59.95.
5. Dr. Scholl’s Revitalize Recovery Orthotics for Neuropathy
Rating:
Comfort 4.5/5 Support 3.5/5 Pain Relief 4.5/5 Value 5/5
Why do we like it?
One of the most budget-friendly, easily available, yet one of the most effective in our list of orthotics for neuropathy is – Dr.Scholl’s Revitalize Recovery Insoles. These insoles are based on the science of reflexology, foot massage, and acupuncture. What’s more? It has stimulating bubbles that automatically massage your feet for a relaxing experience!
After prolonged trials and testing, we found these to be very effective in reducing fatigue, soreness, and stress on feet with damaged nerves.
Without a doubt, the design triggers key pressure points and improves blood circulation to ease sensitive foot sensation. It’s also good for faster recovery of arthritis, Morton’s neuroma, sprains, and stress-induced fractures in the foot.
It’s Worth Noting
Indeed, Dr.Scholl’s Revitalize insoles feel like a foot massage at every step! On the contrary, do note that these might not work the best for those primarily looking for improved stability. Also, these orthotics for neuropathy are available in very limited size options.
Product Details:
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Ideal Shoe Type: Athletic or running shoes, sneakers, casual shoes, and house slippers.
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Available sizes: Men – 8 to 14. Women – 6 to 10.
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Unique features: Made with stress-relieving stimulating bubbles. Also, comes with 90-day money-back guarantee.
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Materials: Foam, Polymer.
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Price: $54.99.
6. Walkhero Comfort and Support Orthotics for Neuropathy
Rating:
Comfort 4.5/5 Support 4.5/5 Pain Relief 3.5/5 Value 5/5
Why do we like it?
Gel insoles are one of the most effective for shock absorption and reducing pressure on sensitive areas of your feet. The Walkhero Comfort and Support Orthotics are made of premium-quality gel-absorbing material that not only eases neuropathy but also helps alleviate pain due to a sports injury or plantar pressure.
If you have diabetic neuropathy with issues such as loss of balance, these insoles have an anti-slip feature, which provides great resistance. It also has a unique U-shaped deep heel cup for greater control and stability for smooth walks and light movements.
It’s Worth Noting
The Walkhero insoles provide medium arch support. On the downside – as your weight compresses the gel layer, it may give a slight squeaky sound when you resume walking. Also, helps eliminate knee and back pain.
Product Details:
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Ideal Shoe Type: Casual shoes, Workwear, Sneakers, Walking shoes.
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Available sizes: Men – 4 to 15.5. Women – 6 to 14.5.
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Unique features: 25 mm medium arch support. Shock absorption gel. All-day support and pain relief. Also, reduces pressure on sensitive areas of feet very effectively.
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Materials: PU Foam, EVA.
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Price: $17.99.
7. Walkomfy Heavy Duty Pain Relief Orthotics
Rating:
Comfort 4.5/5 Support 4.5/5 Pain Relief 4/5 Value 4.5/5
Why do we like it?
Peripheral Neuropathy along with Flat Feet or High Arches is often considered difficult to treat. However, we have the Walkomfy Heavy Duty Insoles in our list, which we found to provide ~20% improvement in comfort and reduction in pain sensitivity. Of course, the results will vary from person to person, but you should definitely try these if you have flat feet or plantar fasciitis.
Unlike others, these insoles efficiently bear pressure from overweight individuals (above 210 pounds). Additionally, the extra shock-absorbing heel pad reduces pressure points and resists shocks. After wearing it all day long, we also felt much relief in ankle, knee, and back pain.
It’s Worth Noting
These insoles were evidently quite helpful to ease overpronation, supination, hammer toes, shin splints, and bunions. Works best with a wide range of shoes that have a wide toe box.
Product Details:
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Ideal Shoe Type: Casual, Workout, Sports, Hiking, Golf, Gym, and Walking shoes.
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Available sizes: Men – 2.5 to 15.5. Women – 4.5 to 17. Kids – 13.5 to 2.
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Unique features: Plush top layer. Excellent shock absorption. Improved motion control. Also, reduces friction.
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Materials: TPU, Poron, Memory, and EVA Foam.
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Price: $45.99.
Orthotics for Neuropathy – What To Know
While shopping for insoles with neuropathy relief (especially, diabetic neuropathy), it is important to first consult with your doctor. To prevent the risk of injuries and future complications, the following need to be considered:
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Shoe Type: Always choose shoes that fit well. In any case, the design of your footwear should not put any pressure . There should be plenty of room so that you can easily install the insoles without compromising on breathability and comfort. Accordingly, open-toed shoes or open-side shoes can be good alternatives.
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Materials: Always choose insoles that are made of breathable materials. Both memory foam and gel insoles are good options.
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Cushioning: Your insoles should undeniably come with cushions that have a shock-absorbing feature. Soft materials like foam or cork work best for orthotics for neuropathy. Furthermore, they should have a medium to high level of cushioning based on the level of sensitivity you are experiencing.
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Foot Type and Arch: It is of prime importance to determine your foot type before you make final selection. Your feet could have a low, neutral/medium, or high arch. Without a doubt, choosing the right arch type will ensure better stability and foot mechanics.
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Activity Level: For very light activities, opt for insoles like Dr. Scholl’s Revitalize Recovery. For medium activity levels, Spenco Diabetic Plus and Walkhero Comfort and Support are good options. Lastly, high-impact activities would get the best support and relief from Walkomfy and Cushwork Heavy Duty Orthotics for Neuropathy.
Conclusion
To conclude, our testers could feel a significant improvement after wearing orthotics for neuropathy that best catered to their individual needs. But if you are still confused, consult your podiatrist for better guidance and tailor-made recommendations.
Nonetheless, if the above list didn’t work for you, custom-made orthotics for neuropathy can just do the trick. Such orthotics pay special attention to your personalized needs, and therefore provide better pain relief and comfort than most other OTC orthotics.