Are you one of those people that has always wished your feet were as healthy as the rest of your body? We all are born with different types of feet. Even our own feet are not the same. And every foot is unique in its shape and size. But our feet have a lot more to offer than just carrying us around everywhere we go!
It is found that 75% of us, live with a foot imbalance. We had lived with those imbalances for a long-time causing pain and discomfort at some point of our lives, especially the physically active individuals, disallowing to enjoy their lives.
However, back in 2003, Erkki Hakkala, a physiotherapist who specialised in podiatric medicine founded FootBalance, which brought up the solution to foot imbalances allowing us to move easier and walk faster, making every step better. And in 2020, FootBalance extended its services to Sri Lanka. Currently, FootBalance Sri Lanka is on a journey of healing many sportsmen and women’s feet problems, the pains and aches of individuals who have been suffering by not being able to move those feet faster and easier.
At the time FootBalance is celebrating its third Anniversary in Sri Lanka, we managed to get hold of the Chief Physiotherapist of the FootBalance operation to further help us get to know about how FootBalance heals the feet of Sri Lankans.
1. Can you tell me about yourself and your role at Footbalance?
I am Fasla Fahmy. I am professionally practicing physiotherapy and have been working for FootBalance for the past three years. I also have a keen interest in exercise and sports science that focuses on the science behind the performance of sports individuals. At FootBalance I examine patients to diagnose various foot and ankle conditions and provide the appropriate insoles for a variety of foot and ankle needs.
2. To whom do you recommend these customized insoles?
Custom insoles are recommended for anybody at any time, as they alleviate any symptoms of pain and discomfort while maintaining proper alignment of the body. Although it is of greater importance for people who suffer from flat feet, everyone regardless of their foot type can benefit from insoles. Because they help redistribute weight evenly across your feet. And we have witnessed amazing results in conditions like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, pronated ankle, corns and calluses, and prevention of diabetic pre-ulceration.
3. Are there any restrictions for someone to have their insoles prepared?
Every foot is unique. Hence, the first point of contact is to seek relevant professional examination to investigate whether an orthotic is genuinely required. If this analysis proves the case, the custom insoles must comply with general ergonomic requirements, because exaggerated arches or improper insoles can lead to a range of problems, from occasional pain to permanent structural damage.
4. How many types of insoles are available for customers and how do they differ from each other?
In Sri Lanka, we have introduced six types of insoles, which are in different characteristics;
I. FootBalance Max – It is a moderately cushioned insole for exercise and general lifestyle. It features a stiffer core designed to provide support for heavier individuals with excessive pronation of the ankle.
II. FootBalance Impact – Developed for high-impact activities. This insole provides greater support and stability in explosive foot movements. It comes with a forefoot and heel cushion for better shock absorption. It also has a perforated forefoot for ventilation and quick drying.
III. FootBalance Medical Black – This is one of the top-selling insoles, extremely durable and breathable. It has a topcoat with an anti-fungal finish and thick cushioning for high-quality shock absorption.
IV. Leather insole with ¾ length – Specially designed for snug-fit shoes. The ¾ length insoles are made of genuine leather. Provides arch support for formal, casual,
and open-door footwear.
V. Medical Green Soft – These soft medical insoles are developed for sensitive feet which need to decompress and reduce the concentration of pressure points. Suitable for Diabetic and pre-ulcerative conditions.
VI. FootBalance Kids insole – Pediatric arch supports for kids between 6 to 10 years of age. It promotes proper GAIT pattern and corrects misalignments resulting in premature muscle tightness
5. What materials are used to manufacture these insoles and where are they manufactured at?
FootBalance insoles are originally from Finland. It consists of four layers. A durable top layer with an anti-fungal coating. Then comes a cushion with high-quality shock absorption. Next, patent custom molded balance plate for dynamic arch support. And finally, at the bottom, a high-strength base surface with EVA copolymer.
6. How are these insoles moulded and how long does it take to mould a pair?
Initially, we carry out a manual examination of the feet. Then the feet are analyzed with a special FootBalance Podoscope scan. Based on the scan findings and the activity level of the individual, we decide on a suitable pair of insoles. The heated insoles are molded to each foot individually. The Custom wedges will be added if required to ensure greater stability. Additionally, an exercise plan can be specified for the individual. The whole process of scanning to molding takes 20 – 30 minutes to complete.
7. How often these customized insoles must be changed?
It depends on the severity of the condition and the activity level of the individual. Roughly, insoles last for 2-3 years in general use. And 1-2 years as a highly active sportsman.
8. Where can your potential customers find FootBalance stores?
There is 80+ FootBalance outlets across the globe. And the only store in Sri Lanka is in Colombo 04, it’s operated by FootBalance Sri Lanka. Currently, we do not have any other store in the country but we have plans for a few stores in the coming years.
FootBalance is completing its successful third year and they are closely working with the global team and introducing the best products to Sri Lanka. With the current economic crisis, FootBalance is trying its level best to provide this new technology and products to the Sri Lankan market as and when it’s available.
FootBalance believes that Sri Lankans deserve the best products and it’s their prime duty to provide them on time. During the coming years, they are looking to expand at least 3 major cities, like Kandy, Galle, or Matara, and in Jaffna. Currently, they are working on some of the proposals and looking for some like-minded and passionate partners to tie up with to expand their reach to the market.
Apart from these plans, FootBalance is in the process of setting up a mobile clinic facility, so they can travel to rural areas and identify the sporting professionals who need their support. We are hopeful that with time and support from like-minded people, we will be able to reach out to more people with our products and help them keep their feet in good shape!
To increase awareness FootBalance team is working with local schools, sports institutions and sports clubs to introduce this product and educate them about the importance of foot health from the beginning of their sporting careers. It’s a breakthrough that will help Sri Lankan sports stars to achieve their potential and create opportunities for them to excel on the world stage.