One of the best ways to prevent knee pain is by investing in the best insoles for knee pain. Insoles in the footwear can help alleviate discomfort by offering cushioning to the ankles and knees. An insole absorbs shock, aligns the posture, and corrects the way you walk. It also relieves pressure and strain from the knees and helps prevent further injuries. While choosing an insole, always pick the one that matches your needs and gives you maximum stability, support, and comfort. We have compiled a list of the top insoles to reduce knee pain and recommend you to get a pair as it will help reduce discomfort and pain.

11 Best Insoles For Knee Pain

1. Best Podiatrist Recommended:Powerstep Pinnacle Arch Support Insoles

Pros

Semi rigid support shell Anti-microbial top fabric Great for all arch types Alleviates mild to moderate pronation No.1 podiatrist recommended brand Accepted by the American Podiatric Medical Association

Cons

May not be suitable for people who are overweight

2. Best With Full Length Footbed:Walk-Hero Comfort And Support Arch Support Insole

Pros

Fabric keeps your feet cool Full length footbed 5 mm top cover Medical-grade foot support High-density foam layer Odorless, antibacterial, durable velvet cover Packed in resealable ziplock bag

Cons

May not work for people with high arches

3. Best Adjustable:Easyfeet Orthotic Shoe Insoles

One of the best orthotics for knee pain, these high arch support insoles are not only incredibly comfortable but also minimize arch pain and offer relief from plantar fasciitis, pronation, joint pain, heel spurs, shin splints, metatarsalgia, and bunions. Crafted with hard TPU and a cushioning layer of PU memory foam, they fit all kinds of shoes for both men and women, and are great for walking, standing, running, or cross-training. Anti Pronation Biomechanical Reinforcement Technology provides fantastic arch support, and the gel cushioning and air capsules in the forefoot act as a great shock absorber. A deep heel cup with in-built heel support offers balance and stability. A velvety breathable cover reduces heat and friction, adding to the comfort of your feet. Check out this YouTuber’s review of this product. Pros

Adjustable size Odorless antibacterial cover Pain relief within a week Podiatrist recommended

Cons

May not be suitable for big feet

4. Best Shock Absorption:WalkFit Platinum Arch Support Insoles

Pros

Cushioning gel pad in the heel Extra shock absorption and comfort Distributes your weight evenly across feet Prevents the heel from rolling

Cons

People with neuropathy may find it uncomfortable

5. Best Breathable:Walkomfy Arch Support Insoles

These excellent insoles for knee pain give pain relief and absorb shocks as they are crafted with high quality polymer EVA material and closed cell high density PU foam that cushions and supports the foot for long-lasting comfort. These insoles sport a deep U heel cup, strong arch support, and a metatarsal pad support to relieve pressure and fatigue. It helps to correct a high arch, pronation, flat feet and fallen arches, relieving heel spurs, heel pain, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and pain in the ball of the foot. They provide moderate support and control in walking, hiking, work shoes and boots, and cushioning and comfort in all leisure footwear. Pros

3-point mechanics─ metatarsus/arch/heel Skin-friendly anti-slip velvet fabric Soft and breathable Reduces knee fatigue and leg pain

Cons

Some may find them wide and bulky

6. Best For Instant Pain Relief:Dr. Scholl’s Orthotics For Knee Pain

One of the best shoe inserts for knee pain, these orthotics prevent strain, stress, and shock that can cause knee pain, and protects the meniscus and knee cartilage from stress and shock giving pain relief all through the day. Designed with Shock Guard technology and reinforced padding, it reduces and absorbs impact when you move, distributes weight and pressure evenly, and is very helpful for reducing general knee pain, runner’s knee, and pain from osteoarthritis. Arch support and a deep heel cup stabilizes the heel to prevent strain, stress, and shock that can cause knee pain. Pros

Full length insoles Can be trimmed Protects knee cartilage Instant pain relief

Cons

May make the fit of your shoes tight

7. Best With Heel Cushions:Jumpow Wedge Heel Silicone Insoles

These wedge heel silicone insoles for knee pain can be used in 2 ways─ medial and lateral wedging─ and can correct postural imbalances which may lead to injuries in the future. They are suitable for relief from knock-knees, supination, pronation, bow legs, ankle eversion, and flat feet. The wedges measure 1/10-inch on the thinner side and ⅖-inch on the thicker side, which controls the hindfoot and forefoot from rolling out or rolling in. The insole provides cushioning and stability to your feet which reduces pain, stress, and pressure, and gives adequate support. Made of durable and soft gel material, it has a good peel off the back adhesive, and can be washed without losing its stickiness so that it can be reused. It fits most types of shoes for men and women, including slippers, high heels, flats, boots, sandals, and sneakers. Pros

Instant relief from pain Soft and breathable material Features heel cushions Suitable for O-type and X-type legs

Cons

Some may take time to get used to the texture

8. Best Biodynamic Balance Technology:Superthotics Arch Support Insoles

The unique and innovative Biodynamic Balance technology of these insoles for knee pain keeps your foot arches from collapsing and relieves pain by correcting the angle at which your foot hits the ground while walking or running. The durable arch support of these orthotic inserts provide stability and comfort, and relieves the pain caused by bunions, tendonitis, hammer toe, pain in the arch, neuroma, and bone spurs. They align your foot and body properly with their durable construction of high-tech polymer. It features cushioned Bio-Lock heel cups that stabilize the ankle and heel for the correct alignment of your foot and shock absorption. It also has added metatarsal support to support the ball of your foot and distribute impact across the entire foot evenly. These insoles fit all sizes and kinds of shoes for both men and women. Pros

Restores balance Customizable orthotics Developed by a doctor Patented technology for all foot related problems

Cons

Some may find the plastic too hard.

9. Best Ergonomic Design:X-MUSCLE Shoe Insoles

These insoles for sports shoes use EUDE foam, which is a speed-responsive smart material for the best protection of your feet. Apart from new technology, it uses graphene compound fabric that is more breathable and removes odor. For the environmentally-conscious, these insoles are biodegradable and certified by CPSIA and REACH. The sports insoles for knee pain strengthen the muscles of your feet, protect your ankles and knees, and balance your limbs. They are incredible shock absorbers and greatly reduce the impact caused by walking, running, and sports. These insoles have an adaptive fit and support the full foot, thus soothing your feet, preventing pain, and reducing muscle and leg fatigue. Pros

Fits all type of shoes Ergonomic design Moisture-wicking Deep heel cup Uniquely designed for your foot arch Mildew-resistant antibacterial fabric Can be trimmed to fit Suitable for all kinds of activity Corrects foot shape and adjusts posture

Cons

Color may run

10. Best With Self-Adhesive Backing:Mcvcoyh Clear Orthopedic Insoles

You get a pair of transparent silicone magnetic stone heel insoles, and a pair of apricot gel insoles in this pack which adhere to the inside of your shoe and correct O-type and X-type leg orthotics. These can be fitted into sneakers, boots, trainers, and high heel shoes. The magnetic insole uses two soothing magnet stones with gel pads placed on acupressure points to give your feet and body relief from pain and fatigue. These insoles for knee pain give significant relief from heel pain, bow-legs, pronation, supination, osteoarthritis knee pain, and knock-knees. The gel insoles are soft and comfortable with an adhesive backing and can be reused. Pros

Can be used all day Self-adhesive backing Medial and lateral heel wedge Relieves all kinds of foot and leg pain

Cons

May not be suitable for those with big feet

11. Best Durable:Supinserts Insoles For Women

Crafted with premium quality, medium density, lightweight EVA foam that has undergone integrated processing, this insole features a multi-layer design. The upper and lower layers of these insoles for knee pain are designed with high elasticity memory foam, while the middle is made of hard TPU to disperse the pressure on the foot and provide full support. This provides shock absorption and comfortable cushioning, and the polyester top fabric keeps your feet dry and comfortable throughout the day. Its deep U-shape heel cup and high arch support of 25 mm guarantees comfort, stability, support, shock absorption, and proper body alignment. It greatly reduces the pain and symptoms caused by flat feet, arthritis, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, and diabetes. Pros

Durable Unisex everyday use Fits most footwear Moisture-wicking breathable material Memory foam covered with velvet fabric Metatarsal support massage ball Corrective fixation design Non-slip flexible material Suitable for all arch types Recommended by chiropractors and podiatrists

Cons

Some feel it could have more cushioning.

How To Choose The Right Insole For Knee Pain?

Consider the following factors when choosing an insole for knee pain.

  1. Arch support: Choose insoles that give adequate support to your arches and keep your feet properly aligned. Depending on the arch of your foot, this could be low, medium, or high. Some insoles come with adaptive arch technology, which means the arches of the insole adapt to your foot’s arches as you move. This takes the pressure off your legs and thus protects your knees.
  2. Cushioning: The best insoles cushion your feet and absorb shocks so that there is less impact on your joints. This can be done with things like air pockets, gel, and EVA foam. The thicker the insole, the more padding and shock absorption it will give your feet.
  3. Heel support: A deep stabilizing heel cup gives adequate support and aligns your feet properly. If it’s cushioned or padded as well, it will help with absorbing shocks at the same time. Do remember that if the cushioning is too high, it can put unnecessary pressure on your knees resulting in pain. A deep heel cup gives the best support and protects your knees and will ensure your feet pronate properly.
  4. Metatarsal lift: This is required if you are prone to pain in the ball of the foot or on top of your knee. A metatarsal lifts the toes up slightly and separates the big toe a little, which protects the front foot area.
  5. Contoured fit: Insoles that contour to your feet will support your feet exactly where required. This prevents your feet from inwards or outwards, and reduces pressure on the knees. High density foam is the best as it takes on your foot’s exact shape and will adjust to your feet every day. Memory foam is also a good shock absorber, is lightweight, durable, and comfortable.
  6. Moisture control: Insoles are available that have an upper fabric layer that is moisture-wicking and keeps your feet dry. This prevents blisters from forming that can be painful, and prevents you from walking properly.
  7. Odor prevention: Choose insoles that are antimicrobial as they prevent bacteria from multiplying in moist conditions. Bacteria causes feet to smell, but an antimicrobial insole will ensure that your feet are odor-free even if you are wearing shoes all day long. Dr. Safia Munawar, MBBS, CBAM, general practitioner, and aesthetic medicine specialist, says, “Wearing insoles is a great way to add extra comfort and alleviate knee, ankle, and heel pain. Apart from investing in a quality insole, it’s also crucial you choose the correct footwear in the first place.”

Why Trust MomJunction?

A properly-fitted footwear insole can help reduce the discomfort by facilitating the right postures and support while walking. Thus, Poulami Nag, the author of this article and our seasoned writer and reviewer of footwear and clothing, has assessed your requirements, critical quality parameters, and extra features to compile this list of the best insoles for knee pain. Moreover, she has also included a buying guide highlighting the different factors you should consider before buying the right shoe insole.

References:

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