Definition: Carbon plates refer to thin insoles made of semi-rigid and rigid carbon plating that go in the shoe. Semi-rigid plates are used to make the sole of the shoe stiff, replacing steel shanks or making the forefoot of the shoe non-flexibile. They are placed under the insole cushion as they are usually too hard to wear directly next to the foot. They can also be placed within a custom made orthotic. Rigid plates are used in the shoes of those with transmetatarsal amputations. The rigidity assists in promoting better toe off, something that is lost when that part of the foot is amputated.
Benefits: These are slim plates that can move shoe-to-shoe. They need cushioning over them as they are hard and not comfortable to walking without a cushion. They make the sole of the shoe rigid when it is not rigid to begin with, making more shoe choices available to those who need rigidity in the sole.
Text: Copyright 2010 Carole Romig Image: Performancebracing.com