Support surface and / or footwear configured to improve foot alignment and methods of making same

Abstract

The support surface configured to improve foot alignment can be at least a portion of a combined insole, midsole, and outsole of an integrated piece of footwear. The sidewall can extend upward from a central portion of the support surface. The medial portion of the sidewall can be configured to support the medial side of the foot. The lateral portion of the sidewall can be configured to support the lateral side of the foot. The highest point of the medial portion of the sidewall, measured along a line extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, can be higher than the highest point of the lateral portion of the sidewall, measured along a line extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. The support surface can be configured to reduce movement along the roll axis of the foot.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 480,855, filed January 20, 2023, entitled "Support Surface and / or Footwear Configured to Improve Foot Alignment, and Methods of Forming Same," the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0002] The presently disclosed technology relates generally to footwear and optionally to insoles. More specifically, in one embodiment, the technology disclosed herein relates to a support surface configured to improve foot alignment. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The human musculoskeletal system is incredibly complex and adaptable. It is also vulnerable, and this vulnerability can lead to pain, discomfort, and even injury. In the workplace, problems can manifest as foot, knee, and back pain, reducing productivity and increasing the risk of more serious injury.

[0004] The evolutionary adaptations that allow humans to walk upright on two legs also have consequences: our curved spine and flexible ankles are not ideal load-bearing structures. As a result, postural alignment of the body and orientation of load-bearing joints have important effects on mechanical efficiency, balance, and fatigue.

[0005] In this sense, skeletal "alignment" is similar to the more familiar concept of "front-end alignment" in an automobile. With properly adjusted suspension components and balanced wheels, a vehicle functions optimally, improving control, safety, and performance while reducing fuel consumption ("energy consumption") and wear ("fatigue"). Skeletal alignment offers similar benefits to human performance.

[0006] There are a variety of methods for adjusting or correcting lower extremity alignment. In extreme cases requiring medical intervention, orthopedic shoes and prescription orthotics may be used. Milder cases are often "self-treated" with widely available over-the-counter "stability" shoes, generic shoe inserts (insoles), and arch supports. Unfortunately, these off-the-shelf solutions are often ineffective in preventing the discomfort and fatigue that builds up over the course of a work day and their after-effects.

[0007] Fatigue isn't just the result of strenuous exercise. It can also occur in workers who are required to stand in one place for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces. Constant pressure on the soles of the feet restricts blood flow, resulting in the swelling of the feet and lower legs that many people experience after prolonged standing. While the body's reflexes may try to alleviate the problem by making frequent small adjustments to posture, unfortunately, the small muscles used to control posture become fatigued over the course of the day, exacerbating the problem.

[0008] Traditional "arch supports" are not an effective solution. The term "arch support" is used more as a sales tool than a functional description. The arch of the foot is like the arch of a bridge. It is a self-supporting structure that fills the gap between the heel and toe. It is not intended to support loads in the "gap" area; instead, it transfers loads to the ground at the endpoints. In most cases, the arch of the foot functions normally and does not require additional support. Other extreme cases, such as a collapsed bridge, require medical or surgical intervention. Commercially available arch supports are made of foam and other lightweight materials, and some have rigid plastic substructures. The maximum load generated during walking is typically 140% to 180% of body weight, approximately 150 lb for small people and over 450 lb for large people. Most arch supports are too weak to even "support" this level of load. Foam arch supports may improve comfort and fit, but they do not provide "support."

[0009] Similarly, the effectiveness of "supportive" and "pronation control" shoes is now being questioned, with many studies finding them to be ineffective in foot alignment and control. One possible reason is that these interventions (wedges, medial posts, etc.) are placed in the midsole of the shoe rather than on the side of the foot. Nevertheless, both clinicians and orthopedic surgeons are recognizing that in-shoe interventions can be effective, at least when individually customized.

[0010] The "pronation paradigm" has been a major theme in podiatry, orthopedics, and athletic shoe design for many years. This paradigm is based on the idea that excessive pronation of the foot is a major contributing factor to many common foot and lower extremity injuries.

[0011] Generally, pronation is shown in the posterior, or "rearfoot," view below. From this perspective, "pronation" is the inward rotation of the ankle, and "supination" is the rotation in the opposite direction. Naturally, pronation-supination is more complex than the 2D rearfoot view below suggests. As shown in Figure 11, it is a movement around the talocalcanal ("subtalar") joint that combines "rolling" of the heel with external rotation ("turning out") and dorsiflexion ("flexion up the toes") of the foot.

[0012] The talus also connects to the midfoot, particularly the navicular bone, so pronation also involves midfoot and arch motion. In fact, referring to Figure 12, midfoot pronation and supination are generally more important than components of heel motion.

[0013] Complex 3D movements occur because the ankle is not a simple hinge joint, but a combination of joints with different orientations. The subtalar joint axis is tilted in all three planes relative to the body axis. Referring to Figure 13, the "diagonal hinge" of the subtalar joint has several important effects: 1) The pronation / supination axis does not coincide with any of the major foot and leg axes. 2) Pronation involves medial movement of the ankle and midfoot (movement of the navicular bone). 3) In a fixed coordinate system, pronation of the foot requires compensatory internal rotation of the tibia.

[0014] "Excessive" pronation has been associated with overuse injuries, particularly in runners. These include "runner's knee," Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and other common injuries. Simply put, the pronation paradigm means: 1) Flat and flexible feet tend to pronate excessively, which places abnormal load on the foot and transmits twisting force to the knee. Such feet require correction such as arch support and medial posting to reduce pronation. 2) High arched feet are stiff and do not pronate well. The pronation and flexion of the arch are themselves internal cushioning mechanisms that absorb the loads placed on the foot. Such feet are essentially stable, but require cushioning to compensate for the lack of flexibility in the foot. 3) Ideally, the foot should be in "neutral" alignment, i.e., neither pronated nor supinated.

[0015] It is important to note that opinions regarding the value of the pronation paradigm vary, and some elements of it have not been supported by controlled laboratory studies. Nevertheless, the concepts of "pronation" and "pronation control" remain important in the treatment of sports injuries, the prescription of orthotics, and the design of running shoes.

[0016] Further related discussion can be found in Gait Posture, 2018 February;60:175-180.doi:10.1016 / j.gaitpost.2017.12.001, and U.S. Patent No. 9,060,565 B2, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0017] Further relevant discussion can also be found in Comparative Kinesiology of the Human Body, Salih Angin and Ibrahim Engin Simsek, Academic Press, Copyright 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference.

[0018] Additional related discussion can be found at: 1.Martin RL,Davenport TE,Reischl SF,McPoil TG,Matheson JW,Wukich DK,McDonough CM;American Physical Therapy Association.Heel pain-plantar fasciitis:revision 2014.J Orthop Sports Phys Ther.2014 Nov;44(11):A1-33.doi:10.2519 / jospt.2014.0303.PMID:25361863. 2.Cambron JA,Dexheimer JM,Duarte M,Freels S.Shoe Orthotics for the Treatment of Chronic Low Back Pain:A Randomized Controlled Trial.Arch Phys Med Rehabil.2017 Sep;98(9):1752-1762.doi:10.1016 / j.apmr.2017.03.028.Epub 2017 Apr 30.PMID:28465224. 3.Castro-Mendez A,Munuera PV,Albornoz-Cabello M.The short-term effect of custom-made foot orthoses in subjects with excessive foot pronation and lower back pain:a randomized,double-blinded,clinical trial.Prosthet Orthot Int.2013 Oct;37(5):384-90.doi:10.1177 / 0309364612471370.Epub 2013 Jan 17.PMID:23327838。 4.Menz HB,Dufour AB,Riskowski JL,Hillstrom HJ,Hannan MT.Foot posture,foot function and low back pain:the Framingham Foot Study.Rheumatology.2013 Dec;52(12):2275-82.doi:10.1093 / rheumatology / ket298.Epub 2013 Sep 17.PMID:24049103;PMCID:PMC3828513。 5.Mulford D,Taggart HM,Nivens A,Payrie C.Arch support use for improving balance and reducing pain in older adults.Appl Nurs Res.2008 Aug;21(3):153-8.doi:10.1016 / j.apnr.2006.08.006.PMID:18684409。 6.Mills K,Blanch P,Dev P,Martin M,Vicenzino B.A randomised control trial of short term efficacy of in-shoe foot orthoses compared with a wait and see policy for anterior knee pain and the role of foot mobility.Br J Sports Med.2012 Mar;46(4):247-52.doi:10.1136 / bjsports-2011-090204.Epub 2011 Sep 18.PMID:21930514。 7.Waddington GS.Foot exercise and orthotics more effective than knee exercise in PFJ pain.J Sci Med Sport.2018 Jan;21(1):1.doi:10.1016 / j.jsams.2017.11.014.PMID:29224897。 8.Vicenzino B,Collins N,Cleland J,et al.A clinical prediction rule for identifying patients with patellofemoral pain who are likely to benefit from foot orthoses:a preliminary determination.British Journal of Sports Medicine.2010;44:862-866。 9.Pires Neves,M.,Sena da Conceicao,C.,Lucareli,P.R.,Barbosa,R.S.,Vieira,J.P.,Brasileiro,A.J.,da Silva,G.F.,& Gomes-Neto,M.(2022).Effects of foot orthoses on pain and the prevention of lower limb injuries in runners:Systematic Review and meta-analysis.Journal of Sport Rehabilitation,31(8),1067-1074. https: / / doi.org / 10.1123 / jsr.2021-0302 10.Welte,L.,Kelly,L.A.,Lichtwark,G.A.,& Rainbow,M.J.(2018).Influence of the windlass mechanism on arch-spring mechanics during dynamic foot arch deformation.Journal of The Royal Society Interface,15(145),20180270. https: / / doi.org / 10.1098 / rsif.2018.0270 11.Hesarikia,H.,Nazemian,S.S.,Rasouli,H.R.,& Kazemi,H.M.(2014).Effect of foot orthoses on ankle and foot injuries in military service recruits:A randomized controlled trial.Biosciences Biotechnology Research Asia,11(3),1141-1148. https: / / doi.org / 10.13005 / bbra / 1499 12.Bonanno,D.R.,Landorf,K.B.,Munteanu,S.E.,Murley,G.S.,& Menz,H.B.(2016).Effectiveness of foot orthoses and shock-absorbing insoles for the prevention of injury:A systematic review and meta-analysis.British Journal of Sports Medicine,51(2),86-96. https: / / doi.org / 10.1136 / bjsports-2016-096671 13.Nigg,Bennom,Stergiou,Pro,Cole,Gerald,Stefanyshyn,Darren,Mundermann,Anne,& Humble,Neil (2003).Effect of shoe inserts on Kinematics,center of pressure,and leg joint moments during running.Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise,35(2),314-319. https: / / doi.org / 10.1249 / 01.mss.0000048828.02268.79 14.Andriacchi,T.P.,Favre,J.,Erhart-Hledik,J.C.,& Chu,C.R.(2014).A systems view of risk factors for knee osteoarthritis reveals insights into the pathogenesis of the disease.Annals of Biomedical Engineering,43(2),376-387.https: / / doi.org / 10.1007 / s10439-014-1117-2 15.Kenawey,M.,Liodakis,E.,Krettek,C.,Ostermeier,S.,Horn,T.,& Hankemeier,S.(2011).Effect of the lower limb rotational alignment on tibiofemoral contact pressure.Knee Surgery,Sports Traumatology,Arthroscopy,19(11),1851-1859. https: / / doi.org / 10.1007 / s00167-011-1482-4 16.Mills,K.,Hunt,M.A.,Leigh,R.,& Ferber,R.(2013).A systematic review and meta-analysis of lower limb neuromuscular alterations associated with knee osteoarthritis during level walking.Clinical Biomechanics,28(7),713-724. https: / / doi.org / 10.1016 / j.clinbiomech.2013.07.008 17.Harrison,K.,Feeney,D.,Pryhoda,M.K.,Dicharry,J.,Nelson,N.M.,Shelburne,K.B.,& Davidson,B.S.(2021).Alternative upper configurations during agility-based movements:Part 2,joint-level biomechanics.Footwear Science,13(2),167-180. https: / / doi.org / 10.1080 / 19424280.2021.1899296 18.AKALTUN,M.S.,& KOCOYIGIT,B.F.(2021).Assessment of foot posture and related factors in patients with knee osteoarthritis.Archives of Rheumatology,36(2),267-273. https: / / doi.org / 10.46497 / archrheumatol.2021.8354 19.Kubo,T.,Uritani,D.,Ogaya,S.,Kita,S.,Fukumoto,T.,Fujii,T.,Inagaki,Y.,Tanaka,Y.,& Imagita,H.(2022).Association between foot posture and tibiofemoral contact forces during barefoot walking in patients with knee osteoarthritis. https: / / doi.org / 10.21203 / rs.3.rs-1213732 / v1 20.Mills,K.,Hunt,M.A.,& Ferber,R.(2013).Biomechanical deviations during level walking associated with knee osteoarthritis:A systematic review and meta-analysis.Arthritis Care & Research.https: / / doi.org / 10.1002 / acr.22015 21.Ornetti,P.,Maillefert,J.-F.,Laroche,D.,Morisset,C.,Dougados,M.,& Gossec,L.(2010).Gait analysis as a quantifiable outcome measure in hip or knee osteoarthritis:A systematic review.Joint Bone Spine,77(5),421-425. https: / / doi.org / 10.1016 / j.jbspin.2009.12.009 22.Astephen,J.L.,Deluzio,K.J.,Caldwell,G.E.,Dunbar,M.J.,& Hubley-Kozey,C.L.(2008).Gait and neuromuscular pattern changes are associated with differences in knee osteoarthritis severity levels.Journal of Biomechanics,41(4),868-876. https: / / doi.org / 10.1016 / j.jbiomech.2007.10.016 23.Collins,N.,Bisset,L.,McPoil,T.,& Vicenzino,B.(2007).Foot orthoses in lower limb overuse conditions:A systematic review and meta-analysis.Foot & Ankle International,28(3),396-412.https: / / doi.org / 10.3113 / fai.2007.0396 24.Kao,M.-J.,Chen,T.-H.,Chou,L.-W.,Tsai,M.-W.,& Lo,M.-J.(2014).Effectiveness of a heel cup with an arch support insole on the standing balance of the elderly.Clinical Interventions in Aging,351 25. Collins N, Bisset L, McPoil T, Vicenzino B. Foot orthoses in lower limb overuse conditions: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Foot Ankle Int. 2007 Mar;28(3):396-412. doi:10.3113 / FAI.2007.0396. PMID:17371668, which references evidence from a meta-analysis supporting the use of insoles in preventing lower limb overuse. The analysis also showed that pooled data showed no evidence of a difference between the use of custom-made and prefabricated foot orthoses, suggesting that both can be used to prevent and treat lower limb overuse disorders. 26. Parashar, U, Khalid, S, Kumar, Y. (2020) The influence of foot orthotic interventions on workplace ergonomics. International Journal of Health Sciences and Research. 10(7): 132-138. It explains that ergonomically designed footwear and appropriate corrective interventions can optimally align the foot and improve functional balance and muscle function of the lower limbs, thereby improving comfort and preventing injuries, leading to injury prevention and protection in the workplace. 27. Bonanno DR, Murley GS, Munteanu SE, Landorf KB, Menz HB. Effectiveness of foot orthoses for the prevention of lower limb overuse injuries in naval recruits: a randomized controlled trial. Br J Sports Med. 2018 Mar;52(5):298-302. doi:10.1136 / bjsports-2017-098273. Epub 2017 Oct 22. PMID:29056595, showing that insoles may be effective in reducing the incidence of lower limb injuries in naval recruits. 28. Cambron, JA, Dexheimer, JM, Duarte, M., & Freels, S. (2017). Shoe orthotics for the treatment of chronic low back pain: a randomized controlled trial. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation, 98(9), 1752-1762, which showed that wearing shoe orthotics significantly improved low back pain and functional disability in adult subjects compared with no treatment. 29. Jefferson, JR (2013). The effect of cushioning insoles on back and lower extremity pain in an industrial setting. Workplace health & safety, 61(10), 451-457. It explains that cushioning insoles can reduce lower extremity pain and lower back pain in industrial workers, providing additional benefits to employees who already use fatigue reduction mats. 30. King, PM (2002) A comparison of the effects of floor mats and shoe insoles on standing fatigue. Applied Ergonomics 33:477-484. It explains that insoles are as effective as floor mats in reducing fatigue. However, insoles are dynamic and adapt to the individual, whereas mats are static and can only be used in specific areas. 31. Carley, Patrick & Lachowski, Susan & Mullin, Elizabeth. (2017). Floor Mats and Insoles: Workplace Considerations for Safe Dynamic Standing. Journal of Bones and Muscle Study. Volume 2017.01. It explains that insoles provide more subjective cushioning and improve balance responses by more efficiently recruiting trunk and leg muscles.

[0019] It would be desirable to provide footwear, or at least a support surface within footwear, that overcomes these and other shortcomings of the prior art.

[0020] The currently disclosed technology provides more neutral alignment of the foot and / or enhanced pronation control. The current technology addresses the cause of fatigue by aligning the lower leg to improve body load balance and reduce pressure under the foot.

[0021] In one embodiment, the presently disclosed technology addresses alignment and control issues at the source. The apparent loss of ankle arch height is a result of inward rotation (pronation) of the ankle at the subtalar joint. In one optional embodiment, the presently disclosed technology works primarily by aligning the ankle joint and heel in a more neutral position, which naturally rotates (supinates) and, as a secondary effect, lifts the arch. The presently disclosed technology naturally adjusts to the wearer's needs without the need for customization, helping to avoid extreme misalignments while promoting optimal alignment.

[0022] Unlike most orthotics and insoles with rigid components, the disclosed technology also enhances comfort, achieved through high-quality, durable foam materials and a unique shape that cradles the foot and distributes weight more evenly.

[0023] The presently disclosed technology combines the functionality of aligning and supporting the foot while enhancing comfort.

[0024] The presently disclosed techniques are effective in aligning the foot and ankle, reducing pressure on the soles of the feet and increasing comfort. The presently disclosed techniques offer a tailored, minimally intrusive solution.

[0025] In addition to the human cost, workplace discomfort and fatigue lead to decreased productivity, lost work time, increased medical costs, and an increased risk of errors and accidents. The presently disclosed technology provides the basis for a comprehensive solution by offering a cost-effective and flexible method of meeting several important biomechanical needs while increasing employee comfort and satisfaction.

[0026] In one embodiment, the presently disclosed technology is generally directed to improving the feel, comfort, and / or performance of insoles and / or shoes.

[0027] Figures 14A-14C are schematic representations of the ankle and hindfoot bones in the coronal plane. The hindfoot axis is represented by a dotted line indicating the tibial axis and lateral calcaneal limit. Figure 14A shows normal hindfoot alignment. Figure 14B shows hindfoot varus, which is a combination of medial angulation of the talus, navicular, and calcaneus relative to the tibial axis. Figure 14C shows hindfoot valgus, which is a combination of lateral angulation of the talus, navicular, and calcaneus relative to the tibial axis.

[0028] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed description of the presently disclosed technology, will be better understood when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the presently disclosed technology, there are shown in the drawings various exemplary embodiments. It should be understood, however, that the presently disclosed technology is not limited to the precise alignments and instrumentalities shown. The drawings are as follows: [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1 is a lateral side view of footwear in accordance with one embodiment of the presently disclosed technology, with at least a portion of the footwear shown transparent for clarity; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a medial side view of the footwear of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a medial perspective view of the footwear of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the outside of the footwear of FIG. 1. [Figure 5] 2 is another exterior perspective view of the footwear of FIG. 1, at least a portion of which is shown transparent for clarity. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a front view of the footwear of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the footwear of FIG. 1. [Figure 8] FIG. 1 is a lateral side view of footwear in accordance with another embodiment of the presently disclosed technology, with at least a portion of the footwear shown transparent for clarity. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 is a lateral side view of footwear in accordance with yet another embodiment of the presently disclosed technology, with at least a portion of the footwear shown transparent for clarity. [Figure 10] FIG. 1 is a lateral side view of footwear in accordance with yet another embodiment of the presently disclosed technology, with at least a portion of the footwear shown transparent for clarity. [Figure 11] Shows various positions of the right foot. [Figure 12] Indicates foot position. [Figure 13] Shows various positions of the right foot. [Figure 14] (A) shows neutral / normal hindfoot alignment. (B) shows overpronation of the foot (e.g., flatfoot). (C) shows oversupination of the foot (e.g., flatfoot). [Figure 15] 1 shows the reference zones of the skeletal foot. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] While systems, devices, and methods are described herein by examples and embodiments, those skilled in the art will recognize that the systems, devices, and methods of the presently disclosed technology are not limited to the described embodiments or drawings. Rather, the presently disclosed technology encompasses all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit and scope of the appended claims. The headings used herein are for organizational purposes only and are not meant to limit the scope of the description or the claims.

[0031] In the following description, certain terminology is used for convenience only and not as a limitation. The words "bottom," "top," "left," "right," "lower," and "upper" designate directions in the drawings to which reference is made. Unless otherwise stated herein, the words "a," "an," and "the" are not limited to one element and should be read to mean "at least one." As used herein, the word "may" is used in a permissive sense (i.e., meaning "may") rather than a mandatory sense (i.e., meaning "must"). This term includes the above words, derivatives thereof, and words of similar meaning.

[0032] Features of any one embodiment disclosed herein may be omitted or incorporated into another embodiment.

[0033] Referring specifically to the drawings, wherein like numbers refer to like elements throughout, FIGS. 1-7 illustrate footwear in accordance with one embodiment of the presently disclosed technology. FIGS. 1-7 illustrate the footwear as a shoe designed for the right foot. A corresponding or mirror-image shoe can be designed for the left foot. In one embodiment, the shoe is a sneaker or running shoe. However, in one embodiment, the presently disclosed technology can be incorporated into various other types of footwear.

[0034] The foot can have a medial side, a lateral side, a sustentaculum, a lateral calcaneus, a medial calcaneus, a heel of the hindfoot, a midfoot, and a forefoot (see, for example, Figures 12 and 15).

[0035] The footwear, or at least portions thereof, can be configured to optionally improve the alignment of the wearer's feet and / or to positively influence and / or control the wearer's kinetic chain. Alignment can be important because it has a direct positive impact on at least the lower kinetic chain (e.g., the lower body).

[0036] In one optional embodiment, the support surface can be used to improve alignment of the foot relative to the subtalar medial position. In such an embodiment, the support surface can be configured to align the foot more closely to the subtalar medial alignment and reduce the range of motion about the longitudinal axis.

[0037] The footwear can include a combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole. Optionally, the combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole can be configured to reduce motion along at least the roll axis of the foot and / or can permit, prevent, or retard motion along the pitch and / or yawn axes of the foot. Optionally, the footwear or at least a portion thereof (e.g., upper and / or support surfaces of the combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole) can mitigate and / or prevent excessive or excessive supination and / or pronation and / or prevent unsafe range of motion.

[0038] The bottom surface of the combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole can be configured to contact the ground, for example, on which the wearer walks or runs. The top surface of the combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole (which can be synonymous with or at least a part of the support surface) can be configured to contact the foot (e.g., at least the bottom of the wearer's foot).

[0039] The upper surface of the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole can have at least a rearfoot section, a midfoot section, and a forefoot section configured to support the rearfoot, midfoot, and forefoot, respectively. The upper surface of the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole can have a first end closest to the heel of the foot and an opposite second end closest to the forefoot of the foot.

[0040] The longitudinal axis of the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole can extend in a straight line from a first end to an opposite second end and can extend through a lateral midpoint of the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole.

[0041] The combined integrated insole, midsole, and upper surface of the outsole can be configured to receive at least a portion of the rearfoot, midfoot, and forefoot of the foot.

[0042] A sidewall can extend upward from a central portion of an upper surface of the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole. The medial portion of the sidewall can be configured to support the medial side of the foot. The lateral portion of the sidewall can be configured to support the lateral side of the foot.

[0043] In one optional embodiment, the highest point of the inner portion of the sidewall measured along a line extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is greater and / or higher than the highest point of the outer portion of the sidewall measured along a line extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

[0044] In one embodiment, the combined insole, midsole, and outsole can be formed from a single material with a single durometer, such as a polymer material and / or a foam material. Therefore, the combined insole, midsole, and outsole can optionally be monolithic. One advantage of this design is that it can ensure the correct configuration of the support surface, improving the wearer's posture. Optionally, the combined insole, midsole, and outsole can be formed by injection molding (MMM) manufacturing.

[0045] One embodiment of the presently disclosed technology was found to reduce the total pronation angle (relative to neutral) between the tibia and heel from an average of 9.0 degrees to 3.2 degrees (65%), and the total pronation angle between the tibia and arch from 5.8 degrees to 4.0 degrees (31%).

[0046] In another embodiment, the presently disclosed technology has been shown to reduce alignment deviation from medial from 9.2 degrees to 5.0 degrees (45%) (heel) and from 5.8 degrees to 2.6 degrees (56%) (arch).

[0047] The difference between the presently disclosed technique and the other conditions was statistically significant (p<0.005).

[0048] The number of subjects who demonstrated improved alignment with insoles of the presently disclosed technology compared to other insoles ranged from a low of 25 / 31 (80%) to 31 / 31 (100%) depending on the specific comparison made.

[0049] Figure 8 illustrates another embodiment of the presently disclosed technology. Description of certain similarities between the embodiments of Figures 1-7 and Figure 8 may be omitted herein for convenience and brevity.

[0050] FIG. 8 illustrates the presently disclosed technology as applied to casual, slip-on, and / or dress shoes.

[0051] Figure 9 illustrates another embodiment of the presently disclosed technology. Description of certain similarities between the embodiments of Figures 1-7 and Figure 9 may be omitted herein for convenience and brevity.

[0052] FIG. 9 shows the presently disclosed technology as applied to boots and / or high-top shoes.

[0053] Figure 10 illustrates another embodiment of the presently disclosed technology. Description of certain similarities between the embodiments of Figures 1-7 and Figure 10 may be omitted herein for convenience and brevity.

[0054] FIG. 10 shows the presently disclosed technology used in slides, sandals, and / or open-toe shoes.

[0055] The presently disclosed technology also includes methods of forming (e.g., but not limited to, molding) footwear and / or portions thereof, which may include forming (e.g., molding) the surfaces and sidewalls described herein to achieve the benefits described herein.

[0056] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that changes could be made to the above-described embodiments without departing from the broad concept of the present invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that the presently disclosed technology is not limited to the particular embodiments disclosed, but is intended to encompass modifications within the spirit and scope of the presently disclosed technology as defined by the appended claims.

Claims

1. 1. A support surface configured to improve alignment of a foot relative to a subtalar midpoint, the foot having a medial, lateral, sustentaculum talus, lateral calcaneus, rearfoot heel, midfoot, and forefoot, the support surface being at least a portion of an integrated insole, midsole, and outsole of a footwear article, the support surface comprising: a support surface having at least a rearfoot section, a midfoot section, and a forefoot section configured to support and control the rearfoot, midfoot, and forefoot, respectively, of the foot, the support surface having a first end closest to the heel of the foot and an opposite second end closest to the forefoot of the foot, a longitudinal axis of the support surface extending from the first end to the opposite second end and extending through a lateral midpoint of the support surface, the support surface being configured to receive at least a portion of the rearfoot and midfoot of the foot; a sidewall extending upward from a central portion of the support surface, an inner portion of the sidewall configured to support the medial side of the foot and an outer portion of the sidewall configured to support the lateral side of the foot; a highest point of the inner portion of the side wall measured along a line extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is higher than a highest point of the outer portion of the side wall measured along a line extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; The support surface is configured to align and control the rearfoot in subtalar mid-alignment and reduce range of motion about the longitudinal axis of the foot.

2. 10. The support surface of claim 1, wherein the raised medial portion of the side wall provides a larger contact area with the foot, allowing for more control or alignment of the foot.

3. 10. The support surface of claim 1, wherein the foot has a plurality of distal phalanges, and the support surface is sized to extend from the heel of the foot to the plurality of distal phalanges of the foot and is positioned under both the heel and the plurality of distal phalanges.

4. The support surface of claim 1 , wherein the bottom of the support surface comprises a circular or oval pad.

5. The support surface of claim 4 , wherein the pads extend downwardly from a plate, the plate being formed of a material having a higher stiffness or hardness than the remainder of the support surface.

6. The support surface of claim 1 , wherein the bottom of the support surface includes a contoured pad.

7. The support surface of claim 1 , wherein the support surface and the sidewalls combine to form a continuous surface except for air perforations in the forefoot section of the support surface.

8. The support surface of claim 1 , wherein the corrugations on the upper surface of the outer portion of the sidewall are different from the corrugations on the upper surface of the inner portion of the sidewall.

9. The support surface of claim 1 , wherein the medial portion of the side wall is configured to provide an upward and outward force on the talus.

10. 10. The support surface of claim 9, wherein the inner portion of the side wall is adapted not to extend beyond the ankle bone when the foot is positioned on the support surface and the foot is not rotated.

11. The support surface of claim 1 , wherein the sidewall is configured to extend continuously above the central portion of the support surface at least around the back of the heel.

12. The support surface of claim 1 , wherein the footwear is one of a running shoe, a sneaker, a dress shoe, a casual shoe, a boot, a slide, an open-toe shoe, or a sandal.

13. The support surface of claim 1 , wherein the upper surface of the inner portion of the side wall is undulating and extends continuously from the first end of the support surface toward the second end of the surface.

14. 14. The support surface of claim 13, wherein an upper surface of the outer portion of the side wall undulates from the first end of the support surface to the second end of the support surface.

15. The support surface of claim 1 , wherein the undulations on the upper surface of the outer portion of the sidewall have a constant slope in the rearfoot section.

16. The support surface of claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of the undulations in the upper surface of the inner portion of the sidewall have a slope of zero.

17. The support surface of claim 1 , wherein the upper is attached to a combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole.

18. Footwear configured to improve alignment of a foot, the foot having a medial side, a lateral side, a sustentaculum, a lateral calcaneus, a rearfoot heel, a midfoot, and a forefoot, the footwear comprising: a combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole; a bottom surface of the combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole configured to contact the ground; and an upper surface of the combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole configured to contact the foot, the upper surface of the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole has a rearfoot section, a midfoot section, and a forefoot section configured to support at least the rearfoot section, the midfoot section, and the forefoot section, respectively; an upper surface of the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole having a first end closest to the heel of the foot and an opposite second end closest to the forefoot of the foot, a longitudinal axis of the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole extending from the first end to the opposite second end and extending through a lateral midpoint of the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole, the upper surface of the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole configured to receive at least a portion of the rearfoot, the midfoot, and the forefoot of the foot; a sidewall extending upward from the top surface of the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole, an inner portion of the sidewall configured to support the medial side of the foot and an outer portion of the sidewall configured to support the lateral side of the foot; a highest point of the inner portion of the side wall measured along a line extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is higher than a highest point of the outer portion of the side wall measured along a line extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis; Footwear, wherein the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole are configured to reduce movement along a roll axis of the foot.

19. 1. A method of making footwear, said method comprising: forming a combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole, a bottom surface of the combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole configured to contact the ground, and an upper surface of the combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole configured to contact the foot; A method of making footwear, wherein a sidewall extends upward from an upper surface of the combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole, an inner portion of the sidewall configured to support the inner side of the foot, an outer portion of the sidewall configured to support the outer side of the foot, and a highest point of the inner portion of the sidewall measured along a line extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis is higher than a highest point of the outer portion of the sidewall measured along a line extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

20. The method comprises:

20. The method of making footwear of claim 19, further comprising attaching an upper to the combined integrated insole, midsole, and outsole.

21. 21. The method of making footwear of claim 20, wherein the footwear is one of a running shoe, a sneaker, a dress shoe, a casual shoe, a boot, a slide, an open-toe shoe, or a sandal.

22. 1. A method for forming a combined, integrated insole, midsole, and outsole support surface, said method comprising: forming side walls extending upward from a central portion of the support surface, wherein an inner portion of the side wall is configured to support an inner side of the foot and an outer portion of the side wall is configured to support an outer side of the foot, and wherein a highest point of the inner portion of the side wall measured along a line extending perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the support surface is higher than a highest point of the outer portion of the side wall measured along a line extending perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

23. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the medial portion of the sidewall is raised to provide a larger contact area with the foot, allowing for more control or alignment of the foot.

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