Barefoot Science insoles show remarkable benefits within an NHS study

ByStuart Gordon | 22 July, 2021

In an NHS Innovation approved study 999 out of 1000 patients chose to buy Barefoot Science insoles rather than receive free NHS orthotics.

 

Steps towards modernising the treatment
of musculoskeletal pathomechanics

A study within the NHS Innovations programme by Mr Neil Frame DPodM MChS – Podiatry Specialist (Biomechanics) – November 2015

The Project and Need

Technological advancement drives our approach to healthcare more today than ever. There is growing awareness in the NHS that treatment protocol and pathways redesign requires pace matching with technological reformatory advancements. There is a developing and necessary theme to find solutions that address the ‘cause’ rather than accommodating the symptoms. Click to learn more; https://allaboutbalance.co.uk/first-the-orthotic/

Following the introduction of Barefoot Science proprioceptive stimulating insoles as a treatment over 3 years ago, it has become apparent that due to the insoles benefits, future work (beyond this 3 year observational period) will build on the introduction of such technology, working to uptake universally throughout the NHS, to (allow all patient groups the alternative of experiencing the benefits) enable more groups of patients to benefit from it’s rehabilitative and preventative capacities.

Considering that musculoskeletal conditions can encompass as many as 200 disorders affecting joints, bones, muscles, and soft tissues, with the prevalence of these conditions rising with age 1,2, this system will be of wide patient benefit. To give an indication of the demographic benefits that Barefoot Science technology may bring, it is estimated that there are just over 3 million adults in the United Kingdom who are disabled by a musculoskeletal condition. Furthermore, musculoskeletal disorders were the most common type of self-reported chronic illness in all recent General Household Surveys (GHS) with 16.3% of women and 12.2% men (14.3% of all adults) affected.

The duration of treatment for such chronic musculoskeletal conditions can range from several months to years or even permanency and this should be taken into account when considering the impact and viability of alternate care pathway such as Barefoot Science technology. It is estimated that in Lancashire-12 districts, there are approximately 77,168 males and 109,029 females in just this demographic, with musculoskeletal conditions (Parsons et al) 3.
Prevalence increases with age with 1 in 5 adults aged 50–59 to almost 1 in every 2 adults aged 80+ having painful osteoarthritis in one or both knees (Peat et al, 2008) 4. There are approximately 20,000 new cases of rheumatoid arthritis in the UK every year. There are around 400,000 adults in the UK with rheumatoid arthritis.

With the UK population aged over 50 projected to rise by 32% between 2008 and 2030, this trend is expected to continue. It is estimated that in 2008, up to 1 in 4 general practice consultations were for musculoskeletal problems at a total cost of over £186 million to the NHS. Disease ‘burden’ can be defined not only by the number of people affected, i.e. incidence and prevalence, but also by its social, economic and personal impact. The Health and Safety Executive estimate 8.8 million working days in 2008 were lost due to musculoskeletal conditions. Benefit data show that, in the first quarter of 2009, 12% of those on the incapacity claims system were claiming for musculoskeletal conditions.

 

 

Project Partners

Barefoot Science, a company based in Toronto, Canada, was founded in 1997 to further explore, patent, and market insole technology to the foot care industry. Over one million insoles (historically aka ‘Dynopro’) have been dispensed.

Objective supportive data of product’s efficacy from companies and equipment supplied by:

1. Tekscan (F-Scan System), 307 West First Street, South Boston, Massachusetts 02127-1309, USA. (Under Foot Pressure and Impact Observations using a F-Scan Data Collection System) – File 1 attached2. U.S Military, Project Report: Special Operations Medical Association (Barefoot Science Verified and Validated). Noraxon U.S.A. Inc, 15770 North Greenway-Hayden Loop, Suite 100 Scottsdale, Arizona 85260, USA. (Project Report: Special Operations Medical Association – Barefoot Science Verified & Validated). 21 December 2012
– File 2 attached

3. Microgate (Optogait/Gyko), 13284 Pond Springs Rd, #102 Austin, Texas 78729, USA
– File 3 attached

Research emanating from:

1. University of Huddersfield, Queensgate, Huddersfield, UK. 30 October 2010. – File 4 attached

2. On the use of insoles to alter walking ground reaction forces, 3D kinematics and EMG following an 8 week intervention. Janessa Drake, Brendan Cotter, Alison Schinkel-Ivy. York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada. 2015, – File 6 attached

3. Staffordshire University, College Road, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire. Due 2016.

Recognised practitioners have embraced this technology globally for twenty years.

Project Delivery

Barefoot Science was first presented as a treatment alternative in August 2012 when it was first available in the UK, being introduced as an option to patients being treated for common musculoskeletal symptoms associated with proprioceptive deterioration, pathomechanics, systemic conditions and resultant pathologies.

Patients are now counselled regarding this option availability, care being taken to clearly explain that there is a traditional approach, one that may result in free insole provision and Barefoot Science insoles only being available via self-funding.

The counselling during consultation would take the format of a full description of the two options; the new insole being described as engaging the musculoskeletal system through a parasympathetic ‘switch’ that progressively and semi-permanently redefines the functional parameters of the body during movement. On the other hand, traditional insoles involve ground reaction force modification, through a wedging and foot arch realignment to alter functionality, allowing the foot to be protected and heal whilst in situ. The new insole delivers a progressive, functional realignment with the primary advantage of removing the necessity of having to wear the insole continually. It has the affect of positive, postural realignment emanating from foot level, thus allowing the body to ‘learn’ through the stimulation of the neuromuscular receptors in the plantar surface of the feet to maintain functional efficiency, on it’s own volition5.

Presently, patients are unable to obtain the new alternative free of charge in the NHS and are required to purchase direct from the commercial supplier.

This new approach to an age-old affliction the feet losing their ability to self-support caused by the wearing of footwear, obesity, pregnancy, occupation and disease can now be treated by a safe and effective alternative.

This technology, through prevention or resolution has the potential to improve safety of care, encourage a culture of prevention, rehabilitate more effectively and as a natural consequence reduce NHS pharmacology spend (while dramatically reducing repeat visits.) This case study aims to propose a modern alternative in the treatment of commonly occurring musculoskeletal pathologies treated in the NHS, ensuring all regulatory conditions are met and evidence base practice is recognised and addressed through the reformulation of relevant NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) guidelines.

This excursion into a new philosophy of treating conditions that are a consequence of over pronating feet, systemic conditions and a plethora of functionally related pathomechanics are now being treated with this safe and effective insole; the patient expressing their own preference by purchasing the Barefoot Science insole option.

 

Patient benefits, including any patient reported feedback

The prescription of the proposed insole will enable patients requiring musculoskeletal rehabilitation and those looking for injury prevention to receive effective remedial intervention that promotes safe, independent mobility, including high risk, vulnerable people, thus reducing the burden on professional input, outpatient services and budgets.

Shortages of therapists, trained exercise instructors and pressures on the delivery of NHS services urgently require the development of new methods of working in order to meet health needs of the population. A progressive exercise and rehabilitation intervention, that is safe to undertake for all is required to assist therapy staff, one that would be more cost effective and pro-active, promoting a preventative approach to improve function and quality of life.

Sample patient letter (prior permission for publication granted):

Thank you for introducing me to the ‘Barefoot Science’ system of shoe inserts – they have changed my life completely. As a young man I enjoyed ‘outward bound’ adventures with HM Armed Forces and later as a civilian; mountain and country walking.
Fifteen years ago I started living with Rheumatoid Arthritis and in due course I couldn’t walk without the aid of walking sticks. My lower left leg bones (fibula, tibia and ankle) started to become deformed.
ln 2005 both my knee joints were replaced and eventually my life started to change and I began to be able to walk without walking sticks again.
Both my feet have also been affected by the Rheumatoid Arthritis and having seen various chiropodists I was referred to yourself as a ‘biomech’ by my GP and you introduced me to bespoke shoe inserts made in your workshop, which ‘made a difference’, but in due course you suggested that I became involved in a ‘trial’ using the’ Barefoot Science’ system.
By the Barefoot Science method of using adjustable thicknesses of ‘flexible shims’ with the shoe inserts, the Barefoot science system has enabled me to find my personal levels of adjustments that I needed, to enable me to walk better than I have been able to walk for years.
You have recently transferred me from the Barefoot Science General Purpose system to the Therapeutic System and also how to select the necessary Barefoot Science method of ‘therapy’ for each foot separately and independently from each.
During the past two years I have been able to enjoy some very short country walks again and since being introduced to the Barefoot Science system I am now able to walk 5 mile walks with rambling groups. I have recently led 3 different 5 mile walks with different walking groups too.
Because I still live with the ‘energy disease’ rheumatoid arthritis, following a 5 mile country walk, it takes menthe whole of the following day to recover from the energy consumption of the walk on the previous day – but my feet don’t really suffer at all.
Thank you again

Terence David Moore
Stockport NHS FT Hospital Governor & Manchester NHS University FT Hospitals Trust Member

– File 7 attached.

System benefits including any cost savings

User involvement has already been engaged in the preparation of this proof of concept project.

  • Discharge numbers have increased due to the resolution of the initial presenting pathomechanical related symptoms and perceived patient autonomy and self-care.
  • Common musculoskeletal conditions such as osteoarthritis are the dominant cause of chronic pain, disability and work loss in the UK, more than 6 million people having painful osteoarthritis in one or both knees.
  • Prescription of this technology will be suitable for patients with a wide range of pathomechanical related musculoskeletal conditions including;
  • early onset osteoarthritis,
  • rheumatoid arthritis and
  • diabetes.
  • Barefoot Science insole stands to improve the prognosis of patients with diabetes, where in the UK alone 3.3 million cases of type 2 diabetes are diagnosed annually, requiring 10% of NHS medication funding for the care and control of their condition. As a result of diabetes and systemic complications, 130 amputations are recorded weekly in the UK (statistics from Diabetes UK).

Barefoot Science Technology, under clinical supervision will:

• deliver safe, preventative and effective care pathways – that includes patients that have complex needs requiring rehabilitation – thus reducing hospital length of stay,
• make effective use of ‘the appropriate first point of contact practitioners i.e. general practitioners (GP) promoting effective triage pathways that reduce waiting times,
• reduce the number of expensive specialist referrals for pathologies such as falls, pes planus and the related ankle to shoulder misalignment issues associated with a dysfunctional foundation and lack of proprioceptive stimulation. Effective in the treatment of for example; plantar fasciitis https://allaboutbalance.co.uk/relieve-plantar-…-science-insoles/, Achilles tendinopathy, ankle and shin syndromes, patella femoral maltracking, iliotibial band symptoms,
• effective education to the masses as it relates to the importance and role of a healthy, strong, functional biomechanics.
• reduce dependency on health and social care support and associated costs,
• deliver significant cost savings and reduce longer-term support costs,

• deliver high impact change to healthcare that requires new ways of working to ensure effective rehabilitation can be delivered to patients with long-term conditions,

• it can be anticipated that the introduction of Barefoot Science insoles at primary care level has the potential to help prevent the effects of conditions including multi-joint osteoarthritic pathologies and those resulting from the diabetes complications https://barefoot-science.com/blogs/reports/diabetic-feet-and-how-barefoot-science-can-help that involve the musculoskeletal system and thereby benefit symptoms, function, reduce medication with quicker response times to intervention with additional cost savings to the NHS.

• QIPP- aiding to demonstrate Quality Innovation Productivity and Prevention agenda – assisting in fall prevention, improving recovery times post surgical procedures to the lower limb,

• Supports QOF (Quality and Outcome Framework) – improve clinical care, enhances organisational excellence through better information for patients; education and training; and practice management, improve patient experience,

• Demonstrate the use of evidence based practice.

 

Next steps to a sustainable project

 

• The next steps will circle around education and patients about the role and benefits of introducing enhanced proprioception to the foot,

• insole accessibility is necessary through successful Drug Tariff application and NHS Supply Chain, entering the existing podiatry insole category,

• a user friendly curriculum and continuing education programme will be made available to GP and musculoskeletal front line practitioners,

• effective web portals will be available to empower patients, encouraging further research of the technology, feed-back and participation,

• ongoing additional peer studies with NHS supported research teams will be a continual project,

• keynote speakers will to be integrated into the nationwide healthcare conferences and seminars,

• a drive for continuing collaboration with global companies, such as Microgait that have integrated their gait, balance, alignment and posture technologies into assessment and rehabilitation clinics,

• an approach utilising technology moving healthcare to an accountable, evidence based, ‘assess, implement change and re-assess’ model needs to be adopted, with Barefoot Science integrated as one of the key components in the core tools at the ‘implement change’ phase,

• Arthritis Research UK have recently awarded funding to the Keele University CAT Bank for a large review study on the treatment of plantar fasciitis, the author being a podiatry member of this group. The Keele CAT Bank comprises of a group of clinicians and academics from the Keele centre and local PCTs that look at answering clinical questions. These are called critically appraised topics (CATs). They are then made available to staff and researchers and help to inform clinical practice and the formulation of new research questions within the centre. This may prove to be an ideal test bed for the Barefoot Science insole technology; it’s application and treatment for common musculoskeletal pathologies, such as plantar fasciitis.

Healthcare in the UK is moving into a rapid transitional phase and at such a pace that the timely exploration of innovation such as Barefoot Science insole Technology presents us with an opportunity to close the widening gap between technological advancement and the practitioner.

 

REFERENCES
1. Office for National Statistics (2009). Statistical Bulletin. General Lifestyle Survey – Health Tables 2009. Tables 7.11,

2. Arthritis Care (2011). Report. Understanding Arthritis,

3. Estimate of Musculoskeletal conditions in Lancashire (based on 2011 Census resident population),

4. Gender difference in symptomatic radiographic knee osteoarthritis in the Knee Clinical Assessment – CAS(K): A prospective study in the general population. Rosie J Lacey, Elaine Thomas, Rachel C Duncan and George Peat,

5. McKeon PO, et al. Br J Sports Med 2015; 49:290. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2013-092690 – File 5 attached,

APPENDIX

Further trials:

1. Toronto East General Hospital ER Nurses and Doctors pain and fatigue study. Ned Amendola MD Surgeon Sports Medicine Orthopaedics Duke University, Dr. Peter Fowler Chief Medical Officer for the Qatar Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine Hospital, Corinne Hodgins MSc, CSH Associates – File 8 attached,

Anyone that puts Barefoot Science insoles in their shoes will have an increase in performance and a greatly reduced chance of injury. I now wear my Barefoot Science every day and recommend them to all of my clients.

Richard Pady, Canada
Triathlon Coach, Trainer and Competitor

I have used Barefoot orthotics on some of my toughest casesof plantar fasciitis, tibialis posterior tendinosis and metatarsal- gia and have had excellent results. These are people who have tried and failed traditional orthotics, stretches and various other devices. Barefoot orthotics are easy to sell as people can see the logic in the approach. Thoroughly happy with the product and service

Mark Gillham
Physiotherapist, Cowra NSW, Australia

Immediately from stepping onto my insoles with level one insert I felt a subtle but reassuring change in posture and balance. 8 weeks later I am up to level 6 and two weeks ago I was able to start running again pain-free for the first time in 14 months since a back injury. By way of an update; "Thank you Barefoot Science:- I am completely stoked as I just ran a personal best for a 10k trail over mixed terrain, pain-free!" ...........This afternoon's time was 57:28 - pretty ordinary for many but great for me as my goal has been to get 10k covered in under an hour......... and, after all, I am 186cm, 108kgs and 49 1/2 yrs old! I first 'ran' again in May and took 11 mins to cover 1.6km / 1 mile!

Tim in Alton, Hampshire
A member of EDC Crossfit

In our office, Barefoot Science (BFS) has been effectively used to help improve this proprioceptive deficit. Barefoot Science is a non-orthotic mid-arch stimulator. Due to its ability to create mid-arch activation, BFS mimics barefoot walking in sand and over time can dramatically help to reduce a proprioceptive deficit and improve foot strength. We highly recommend that all take a look at this wonderful product.

Dr. Peter Gorman and Dr. Chelsea Keesler
Chiropractors New York

I wanted to let you know how I’m getting on with the Barefoot Science insoles as I just moved up to insert no.5 after almost 6 months, which I am finding very comfortable. I can feel them, but in a comforting sort of way. I have to report that I have had hardly any instances of dizziness since about a week from starting to wear them. I am so IMPRESSED! I am trying to do a few balance exercises every day as you recommended, and as a near 70 year old with seven small grand-children, four of them only two so they need floor level attention, I am conscious of the need to keep my balance while getting down and back up! The knee bending is okay up to a point and I’m hopeful it will improve as I use it more. But, as far as the balance side of things go I am thrilled. I think it is positively miraculous and am very grateful to you for suggesting them.

Veronica Barratt
A Guildford lady with balance issues

Hi There, My name is Andrew Coltart. I was a golf professional on the European Tour for 19 years and a former Ryder Cup player. I now walk the fairways of the world commentating for a Major Satellite TV Company. My problem came to the fore when I was 47 years old. I had developed Plantar Fasciitis and it was becoming unbearable and debilitating with pretty much constant pain out on the course and in spite of various types of treatment no signs of improvement. I was starting to wonder if I’d be able to carry on working in my current role. Then I met Stuart Gordon of All About Balance and he explained The Barefoot Science Foot Strengthening System. Basically, because of these simple little nerve stimulating plugs that you insert into the underside of the insole, walking has become pain free and enjoyable again. These are no ordinary insoles. Don’t be fooled by expensive orthotics. The Barefoot Science Foot Strengthening System worked wonders for me, not only helping me continue in my work without any pain, they have also improved my balance…an essential factor in general life and massively important to achieving a consistent golf swing! I highly recommend investing in some.

Andrew Coltart UK
Former European Tour and Ryder Cup Golf Pro., Satellite TV on course Golf analyst.

I have been using Barefoot Science insoles consistently since the beginning of the year. They took me a while to use regularly but with the addition of extra pairs, I am able to ensure that I am using them on almost all occasions. This includes walking, CrossFit WOD's, running and every day wear. As you know, my flat feet caused me terrible pain with shin splints and tight calves every time I did any high impact training including running, even just the shortest distance. I haven't rushed through the stages and have only just moved onto level 3. Tonight I completed a 5km run with zero pain. This is the furthest I have run since 2011 and I even shaved 1 minute off my best 1 mile time!! I've found something comfortable that offers me a solution to pain free training, and I'm only half way through the 6 level programme. Thank you so much for introducing me to the Barefoot Science insoles. ☺

Claire Chivers
Crossfit athlete EDC Alton, Hants.

Personal, Barefoot Science testimonial 26 April, 2013 To my fellow Pod people and persons that have foot related problems, I've found a product called Barefoot Science. I like this product and I use it daily, both for myself, and my Podiatric patients, I personally have had foot related injuries and deficits that caused daily foot pain for years as a result of my military service, not any longer though with my Barefoot Science inserts. I would not go without these inserts in my shoes. I was introduced to this product at a foot healthcare symposium, by Mr. Derek Denton of Alamo Medical services... As an employee of a Podiatry Service of a VA hospital in Texas, I perform highly technical work involved in the design, development, fabrication, alteration, assembly, fitting and repair of orthotic foot braces and orthotic shoes for Veterans as related to their post military service, i.e.: disease ,injury and overuse of the feet and ankle(s). I interpret Podiatrist' prescriptions and perform all steps required in the fabrication and fitting of the several types of orthotic braces, for many of which there are no models or precedents, including but not limited to ankle, foot and lower limb, as related to Podiatric disabilities and advise physicians concerning all types of corrective devices available and modification necessary; to help heal or ameliorate these conditions. *Presently now with the Barefoot Science product(s) I personally have noticed over the years the Pedorthic/Podiatric appliances and more complex appliances in the Pedorthic /Podiatry labs were more accommodating to the “functional foot conditions” that kept the foot aligned and rigid, yet never strengthened the foot, although there is a myriad of devices that claim they do so. I have tried most and until now none of them worked for this purpose of strengthening the intrinsic muscles. I started working with Barefoot Science a few years ago, and it has really turned our practice into a healing clinic. Helping ameliorate painful Podiatric conditions such as plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, claw toes, hammertoes, corns, plantar fasciitis, patellar misalignments, chrodromalacia patella, ITB syndrome. I have been working in this field of Podiatry since the mid 1980’s, both with U.S. Navy and Marine Corps personnel, now with Veterans of all armed services as a triple Board Certified Pedorthist and Podiatric clinic manager. I wished we would have had this Barefoot Science product while I was on active duty as a Navy Corpsman, this may have prevented a lot of future/past foot related conditions that we see now. I have also noticed currently within our Podiatric practice a remarkable shift for continuity of care while using these barefoot science rehabilitative foot inserts. The patients get better and stronger while walking not sitting with their feet elevated and hoping the Nsaids do the job. I’ve noticed a reduction of fatigue from all our patients now that they can walk and repair themselves; we have reduced the need for pharmaceuticals (pain meds), orthotics, foot-braces, or surgical interventions, finally solutions ,for these chronic and painful foot problems! *I agree with the following statement of use, and I could not have said it better! Each Barefoot Science Arch Activation SystemTM comes with a pair of insoles to fit into your existing footwear and a series of progressive arch activation inserts. To start, just pop Level 1 into the underside of the insole, slide them in your shoes and get on with your day! It feels like a mini foot massage, sending waves of comfort throughout your body. That sensation is actually your foot muscles waking up and getting stronger. When the sensation fades, usually within a week, your feet are ready to move up to the next level. It’s that easy! With each step, your feet become stronger and more efficient. I recommend this product, and I am not just a practice of one, I work with Dr Karen Brooks, a Podiatrist, we tag team on every Veteran that enters our offices for Podiatric services, she too has over 25 years’ experience in Podiatry Practice and is also very happy with the results of this innovative design and the multiple uses of this barefoot Science rehabilitative and preventative shoe insert to help our Podiatric patients/Veterans. Sincerely, Mike Olden... P.S. Please note: We have a Zebris gait lab pressure measuring platform onsite in our clinic’s Pedorthic lab, that is used to measure our results on every patient pre and post usage of the Barefoot Science rehabilitative inserts. Both static and dynamic is monitored, along with postural sway, including the shoes that they are worn in. The proof is in the pudding, try it for yourself! Michael P.Olden, H.t; Ost; C-Ped; Pmac. Department of Veterans Affairs American Board for Certifications in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics. *Board Certified Pedorthist cert no: Cped0724. KD DIV.HERT Team Decon Coordinator /Instructor KD DIV.Podiatry PAVE TEAM Coordinator/Trainer KD DIV.Local AFGE 2281 Steward+SGT-AT-ARMS KD-Disaster Emergency Medical Personnel System-Team Coordinator Advanced Disaster Life Support Instructor-Cert. Advanced Disaster Medical Response for Providers-Cert. AHA-Basic Cardiac Life Support Instructor-VA-Cert. ECU2 Containment Unit- Staff Trainer-KD-Div. Surgical Service, Code 11C Podiatry / Pedorthic Clinics KD -Div. South Texas Veterans Health Care Systems 3600 Memorial Blvd., Kerrville, Texas. 78028-5768 Wk: (830)-792-2660 Fax :( 830)-792-2532 VA Cell (830)370-2887 Twitter – DEMPS17 Email: Michael.Olden@med.va.gov

Michael P.Olden, H.t; Ost; C-Ped; Pmac.
Department of Veterans Affairs American Board for Certifications in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics. *Board Certified Pedorthist cert no: Cped0724

Hello Barefoot-Science Team :-) I wanted to let you know I've been using your products for more than twenty years. This product is the one and only item I ever purchased from a TV infomercial back in the early 2000s! At the time I was struggling with orthotics. They were expensive and I found that anytime I was not wearing my orthotics, I had pain and strain issues. This technology is brilliant. It has given me the strength and freedom to run and play in my bare feet. It's also good to see you have continued to advance and add to the technology. I'm looking forward to receiving my new pair of Therapeutic Plus full-length insoles. With gratitude, Zeta Lay

Zeta Lay

I have been using Barefoot Science Innersoles for almost a year now. I have quite flat feet and was getting bad shin splint pain when running. I very slowly over 5 months went from the smallest to largest inserts of the Innersoles and find they have really helped me. I now run 10k without foot and ankle issues. My advice is to go slowly up the insert sizes and run less until you are used to them. I will keep using these innersoles, they have worked really well for me. I used them in all of my shoes. Thanks, James.

James Clarke
Runner, Godalming, Surrey

As a personal trainer I will run approximately 25 miles a week and Nordic walk a similar distance with my clients. I am always trying new kit that will benefit clients and prolong my working life. I started using Barefoot Science Foot Strengthening System in January 2020 and a year later can report that my feet and legs, and my balance have never been better. I have happily recommended them to clients who have all reported similar benefits. I have finally found an insole that I will be sticking with long-term.

Andy Webb
Personal Fitness Trainer Haslemere, Surrey.

I am a 51 year old long distance runner and completely ruptured my plantar fascia in the left foot a couple of years ago. I was told by an orthopaedic foot surgeon that I should ‘change my sport’. After 6 months of no running I slowly got back to it but it wasn’t until I tried the BFS system one year later that I started to be able to run better and pain free. I would like to see more of this system tested in the NHS and, where appropriate, used by musculoskeletal and orthopaedic doctors and physiotherapists. I think they have a role to play both in sports and in the role of improving mobility in all age groups. The system certainly gave me more benefit than my expensive ‘custom made’ orthotics a few years before!

Dr Susie Cooper MBBS, MRCP, MRCGP, BSc(hons), PgDip (SEM)
GP and Rheumatologist with a post graduate Diploma in Sports and Exercise Medicine

The Barefoot Science people know their insoles work – they’ve done extensive trials that show dramatic pain relief and improved energy. But I honestly don’t think they realize how truly remarkable a product they’ve invented. These insoles help so many people with such a variety of complaints – not just because they align posture or provide cushioning and support for feet (like orthotics) – but because they activate the plantar musculature and foot bed proprioception which I believe cross trains the body out of the core bias that underlies a multitude of inefficiencies and subtle imbalances. I believe it literally completes the upright posture circuit and brings about posture without effort!

David M. Lemke, NMT, sEMG Tech
Dave offers neuromuscular therapy and wellness consulting, while he also conducts research to develop and test core wellness exercises and equipment.

Foot and ankle injuries are a huge problem in professional and amateur sports. BFS is the only product out there that allows for complete foot and ankle strengthening.

Scott Forehan

“As an athletic development coach who works with professional athletes on a daily basis, the BFS system has become the greatest tool to have at my disposal for strengthening the lower extremity musculature. It’s been especially helpful in correcting muscle imbalances that might negatively affect foot strike patterns in gait as well as strengthening and stretching the ankle and foot following an injury.”

Gray Cook
Board-Certified Orthopedic Clinical Specialist, a Strength & Conditioning Coach and a USWLF Weightlifting Coach. Author of Movement: Functional Movement Systems—Screening, Assessment, Corrective Strategies (2010) and Athletic Body in Balance (2003)

As a Somatic Movement Educator and Comprehensive Pilates teacher I have found the Barefoot Science Insoles Incredibly useful for myself and for my dancers. Right from the beginning you are able to feel very subtle shifts happening within your body which travels beyond the feet, through the legs, pelvis and beyond. I have found them incredibly useful because those subtle shifts help the body to realign itself and maintain a more accurate centre of gravity, which can often get thrown out through injury, overuse or tiredness. As a result, not only have I found these insoles help with the technical demands and fine motor control needed for dance and movement, but also provide increased levels of comfort for the joints during the course of a busy working day. Having tried many different products for feet over the years covering a full spectrum of cost, for me, Barefoot Science insoles come out on top and are a really worthwhile investment to help optimise your dancing and, more importantly, have great potential to be part of your toolbox for healthy, happy dancing feet!

Sarah Pritchard, RSME (Registered Somatic Movement Educator) and Comprehensive Pilates Teacher

Since using the Barefoot Science insoles I’ve seen and felt improvements both in gym based training and athletic performance. As I've progressed through the levels over the last 3 months, currently on level 3 of 7, I have increased my Back Squat by 10kg, and Snatch by 5kg! The security in the position is most noticeable with leg drive, and positioning in squats seeming far more stable and powerful. Within my athletic performance in Cricket I have also noticed significantly increased stability in my movements, especially my bowling action, with far clearer and stronger foot contact at delivery. Looking forward to continuing up the levels and see what comes next!!

Shae Taylor. HE lecturer on Sport Science (Human Performance) programme. Strength and conditioning Coach for Athlete Movement, Liphook, with main focus on Olympic lifting.

"This season we didn’t have a single case of plantar fasciitis. We also didn’t have complaints for Achilles tendon pain. We saw a 5cm improvement in vertical jump with Smart Jump (Fusin Sport) after our athletes trained wearing Barefoot for only one day.”

Kostas Chatzichristo Med, CSCS Trainer to the Greek National Basketball Team
Med, CSCS Trainer to the Greek National Basketball Team

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