The medical community has spoken - and the consensus is that Sorbothane insoles can help lessen pain and the risk of injury due to impact shock. We've highlighted some of the most common foot-related injuries Sorbothane insoles protect against by limiting pronation, absorbing impact shock and providing targeted arch and heel support. Keep in mind that aches, pains and soreness are normal for anyone who's physically active. However, persistent pain could be indicative of an injury. If you exhibit any of the following symptoms, consult a medical expert immediately.

Achilles Tendinitis
What it is	Tears in the tissue of the tendon that extends from the heel to the calf, causing inflammation. If ignored it can rupture.
Where it hurts	Anywhere along the tendon, usually felt while walking.
Likely causes	Overpronation, shoes that are stiff up front and too cushioned in the heel, inadequate stretching or inflexibility, overtraining.
At-risk groups	Those who play stop-and-start or jumping sports like baseball, basketball and tennis, as well as runners and dancers.
Suggested insoles	Ultra Graphite Arch™, Ultra Sole™, Women's Ultra Sole™, Sorbothane® Full Rigid Arch™, SorboAir®, Sorbothane® 3/4 Rigid Arch, SorboElite™, Sorbothane® Heel Pad

Plantar Fasciitis
What it is	Excessive stretching of the soft tissue that connects the heel and the forefoot along the bottom of the foot, causing inflammation.
Where it hurts	Sharp pain under the heel where it meets the arch ligament; pain is most acute when standing or walking after a period of rest.
Likely causes	Overpronation, extremely high arches, improperly fitting or rigid shoes, inflexible calf muscles, overtraining.
At-risk groups	Runners as well as those who play soccer, basketball, volleyball, dance, do step aerobics or anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet.
Suggested insoles	Ultra Graphite Arch™, SorboElite™, Sorbothane® Full Rigid Arch™, Sorbothane® 3/4 Rigid Arch

Shin Splints
What it is	Injured or inflamed muscles along the inside or medial edge of the shin (tibia). If ignored, can cause stress fractures.
Where it hurts	Tenderness or swelling anywhere from a few inches above the ankle up to midway along the shin.
Likely causes	Overpronation, improper running form, running on hard or cambered surfaces, muscle fatigue.
At-risk groups	Runners as well as those who play basketball, volleyball and other sports that require a lot of jumping.
Suggested insoles	Ultra Sole™, Women's Ultra Sole™, SorboAir®

Runner's Knee
What it is	A catchall phrase for wear and tear on kneecap cartilage.
Where it hurts	Pain or swelling beneath or to the inner side of the kneecap; most intense when running downhill or walking downstairs.
Likely causes	Overpronation, worn shoes, fatigued or weak quads, overtraining.
At-risk groups	Runners, soccer, basketball and baseball players as well as skiers.
Suggested insoles	Ultra Graphite Arch™, Ultra Sole™, Women's Ultra Sole™, SorboElite™

Iliotibial Band Syndrome
What it is	Thickening of the band of tissue that runs the length of the femur due to repetitive friction between the tissue and the bone.
Where it hurts	Stinging or swelling just above and to the outside of the knee.
Likely causes	Overpronation, running on cambered surfaces, excessive hill running, worn shoes, overtraining.
At-risk groups	Runners, cyclists, weight lifters, skiers and soccer players.
Suggested insoles	Ultra Graphite Arch™, Ultra Sole™, Women's Ultra Sole™, Sorbothane® Full Rigid Arch™, Sorbothane® 3/4 Rigid Arch, SorboElite™

For more information on impact-related injuries, injury prevention and treatment visit any of the following links.

www.apma.org
Founded in 1912, the APMA is the nation's leading professional society for foot and ankle specialists. The association has component societies in 53 locations in the U.S. and its Territories and a membership of more than 10,000 doctors of podiatric medicine.

www.aapsm.org
More than 800 members strong, the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine is a professional organization that serves to advance the understanding, prevention and management of lower extremity sports and fitness injuries.

www.podiatrychannel.com/runninginjuries
Developed and monitored by board-certified physicians to help people make informed health care choices.

www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/bysport/running.htm
Information as well as a 'virtual diagnosis' of over 100 sports injuries.

www.drpribut.com/sports
Recognized for his contributions to podiatric medicine, Dr. Pribut shares his views on many matters of foot health, sports medicine, choosing a running shoe and other health matters.

www.therunningdoctor.com/runinjuries
Dr. Jeffers is an award-winning runner, lecturer, and biomechanics expert who regularly dispenses sports medicine advice, health information and nutritional advice through articles written for sports magazines and medical journals.