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If arthritis makes your feet, knees, hips, or ankles uncomfortable when you walk or stand, the right insole may make your shoes feel more supportive and comfortable.
But there isn’t one insole that works best for everyone with arthritis.
Some people primarily need cushioning. Others need more structured arch support. Some have high arches, flat feet, or overpronation, while others simply want a softer layer underfoot.
This guide looks at five current over-the-counter options and explains what each one is designed to do, who may want to consider it, and when another type of insole may make more sense.
Quick Answer: For an arthritis-specific option, Dr. Scholl’s Arthritis Support Insoles are the most directly targeted choice. PowerStep Pinnacle provides firmer everyday support for standard arches, while Superfeet All-Purpose Support Medium Arch offers a firmer, structured alternative. Spenco Total Support Max combines strong arch support with a metatarsal pad for people who also experience discomfort around the ball of the foot. Superfeet All-Purpose Cushion is the softer, more flexible choice when comfort and cushioning matter more than firm support.
The 5 Insoles at a Glance
| Insole | Best for | Support level | Arch profile | Notable feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Scholl’s Arthritis Support | Arthritis-specific cushioning and support | Moderate | Built-in arch support | 3/4-length design with Shock Guard technology |
| PowerStep Pinnacle | Everyday structured support | Firm | Neutral/standard | Deep heel cradle and dual-layer cushioning |
| Superfeet All-Purpose Support Medium Arch | Medium-arch structured support | Firm | Medium | Firm stabilizer foundation and sculpted heel cup |
| Spenco Total Support Max | High arches and forefoot pressure | Firm | High | Metatarsal arch support and multi-density cushioning |
| Superfeet All-Purpose Cushion | Softer everyday cushioning | Soft | Medium | Flexible heel cradle and soft cushioning |
There is no overall winner here. The important question is which design matches your feet, your shoes, and the problem you’re trying to address.
What Can Insoles Actually Do for Arthritis?
Insoles don’t treat the underlying cause of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, and they cannot repair damaged joints.
They can, however, change the way your foot contacts the shoe and ground. Depending on the design, an insole may provide cushioning, redistribute pressure, support the arch, or help stabilize the heel.
The Arthritis Foundation notes that orthotics can redistribute weight, provide cushioning, and address some structural or gait problems. It also notes that the strongest evidence is for reducing foot pain in people with rheumatoid arthritis and lower-extremity osteoarthritis.
That doesn’t mean every person with arthritis needs an insole.
If your shoes already fit well and your feet are comfortable, adding a thick or highly structured insert may actually make the shoe less comfortable.
The goal is to find the least aggressive support that addresses your particular problem.
1. Dr. Scholl’s Arthritis Support Insoles
Best for: An arthritis-specific, relatively affordable option
Support type: Cushioning plus moderate arch support
Length: 3/4 length
Best suited to: Osteoarthritis affecting the feet, knees, or hips
Check: Shoe compatibility and current sizing before purchasing
Dr. Scholl’s Arthritis Support Insoles are the most directly targeted product in this guide. The manufacturer specifically markets them for people with osteoarthritis pain affecting the feet, knees, and hips.
The current design uses a stabilizing deep heel cup, Shock Guard technology, and additional arch support. Unlike a conventional full-length insole, it is a 3/4-length insert, leaving more room around the toes. Dr. Scholl’s currently lists the product as designed for casual shoes, sneakers, work shoes, and boots.
Why consider them for arthritis?
The appeal is simplicity.
If you don’t know whether you need a highly structured orthotic and mainly want an insert specifically designed around arthritis-related discomfort, this is a logical place to start.
The 3/4-length design can also be useful when a full-length insole makes the front of your shoe feel too crowded.
Best for
- Someone specifically looking for an arthritis-labeled insole
- Foot discomfort associated with osteoarthritis
- People who want cushioning and some arch support
- Shoes where a 3/4-length insert works better than a full-length one
- People who don’t want to start with a very rigid orthotic
Not ideal for
- Someone who needs a highly structured correction
- Significant foot deformity
- People who need a particular custom offloading arrangement
- Shoes that don’t accommodate the raised heel/arch profile comfortably
One important detail: the current Dr. Scholl’s product page lists this particular Arthritis Support model in women’s sizes, so check the available sizing carefully before buying.
Bottom line: This is the most straightforward choice if your priority is an insole specifically marketed for osteoarthritis rather than a general-purpose orthotic.
2. PowerStep Pinnacle
Best for: Structured everyday support for standard or neutral arches
Support type: Firm but flexible arch support
Length: Full length
Arch profile: Neutral/standard
Best suited to: Everyday walking, work, and casual shoes
PowerStep Pinnacle takes a different approach from the Dr. Scholl’s Arthritis Support insole.
Instead of being marketed specifically for arthritis, Pinnacle is a general-purpose orthotic designed around arch support, heel stability, cushioning, and mild-to-moderate pronation.
The current Pinnacle has a firm-but-flexible support shell, a deep heel cradle, and dual-layer cushioning. PowerStep says it is intended for shoes with removable factory insoles and is available in multiple sizes without trimming.
Why consider it for arthritis?
Some people with arthritis don’t primarily need a softer insert. They may feel better with a more structured base underneath the foot.
Pinnacle provides more structure than a basic foam or gel insole while retaining a cushioned top layer.
That makes it worth considering if your feet feel tired or unsupported during long periods of standing and walking and you have a relatively standard arch.
Best for
- Everyday walking
- Work shoes and walking shoes
- People who want noticeable arch support
- Standard or neutral arches
- Someone who prefers a structured insole rather than a soft cushion
Not ideal for
- Very high arches unless the model is appropriate for your foot
- People who dislike firm arch support
- Shoes with little room for an additional full-length insole
- Significant foot deformity that requires individualized support
PowerStep also makes other versions of the Pinnacle family, including low-arch, high-arch, wide, and Maxx models. Don’t assume the standard Pinnacle is automatically the right version simply because the brand is recommended.
Bottom line: Pinnacle is a good example of why an arthritis insole doesn’t necessarily need to be labeled “arthritis.” Its value is the combination of structured support and cushioning.
3. Superfeet All-Purpose Support Medium Arch
Best for: Firmer support for people with medium arches
Support type: Firm structured support
Length: Full length
Arch profile: Medium
Best suited to: Everyday shoes, work footwear, walking, and running
If you have a medium arch and prefer a firm, supportive insole, Superfeet All-Purpose Support Medium Arch is another option to consider.
This is the current name for the product formerly known as Superfeet BLUE. The design includes a firm stabilizer foundation, high-density foam, a sculpted heel cup, and a moisture-managing top cover. Superfeet recommends it for everyday shoes, work footwear, walking, and running.
Why consider it for arthritis?
The main reason is structure.
This is not a plush cushioning insole. It is designed to provide a firm foundation under the foot and cradle the heel.
That can appeal to someone who feels that softer inserts compress too much or don’t provide enough support.
Best for
- Medium arches
- People who prefer firm support
- Walking and standing
- Work shoes
- Athletic shoes with enough room for the insert
- People who want a structured alternative to a softer arthritis-specific insole
Not ideal for
- People who want a very soft, cushioned feel
- Very low or very high arches unless another Superfeet model is more appropriate
- Shoes with insufficient interior volume
- People whose feet are sensitive to firm arch pressure
Superfeet also makes current low-arch and high-arch versions, so choosing the correct arch profile matters. The company’s current All-Purpose line includes separate low-, medium-, and high-arch options.
Bottom line: This is a good choice to consider when your priority is firm, consistent support rather than maximum softness.
4. Spenco Total Support Max
Best for: High arches and people who also have ball-of-foot discomfort
Support type: Firm, multi-density support
Length: Full length
Arch profile: High
Notable feature: Metatarsal arch support
The Spenco Total Support Max stands out because it combines substantial arch support with cushioning and a metatarsal arch support.
The current model is designed for high arches and uses a multi-density construction. Spenco says a firmer support pod helps slow overpronation while softer cushioning areas absorb impact. It also has a deep heel cup and metatarsal arch support intended to reduce pressure around the ball of the foot.
Why consider it for arthritis?
This is particularly interesting if your discomfort isn’t limited to the heel or arch.
Arthritis and other foot problems can cause pain in the forefoot, and some people also dislike the feeling of pressure under the ball of the foot when standing or walking for long periods.
The metatarsal support gives this insole a specific feature that the other products in this guide don’t emphasize.
Best for
- High arches
- People who want firm arch support
- People who experience forefoot or ball-of-foot pressure
- Long periods of standing or walking
- Someone who wants cushioning combined with structured support
Not ideal for
- Low or very flat arches unless specifically recommended
- People who dislike firm arch support
- Shoes with limited interior space
- Anyone looking for a simple, soft cushioning insert
Spenco currently lists Total Support Max among its products specifically categorized for arthritis. Its arthritis collection also includes Total Support Original and RX Custom Arch Orthotic, so Total Support Max is not the only Spenco option for people with arthritis.
Bottom line: If you have high arches or discomfort toward the front of the foot, this is one of the more interesting options to consider because of its combination of support and metatarsal cushioning.
5. Superfeet All-Purpose Cushion
Best for: Softer, more flexible everyday cushioning
Support type: Soft cushioning with flexible support
Length: Full length
Arch profile: Medium
Best suited to: Everyday footwear and active use
Not everyone with arthritis wants a firm orthotic.
If your feet are sensitive to rigid arch supports, a softer insole may be more comfortable.
The current Superfeet All-Purpose Cushion has a medium arch, mid-level thickness, and soft cushioning. It uses flexible support around the heel rather than the firmer stabilizer foundation found in Superfeet’s All-Purpose Support Medium Arch. Superfeet recommends it for everyday footwear, athletic shoes, and active use.
Why consider it for arthritis?
This gives the list a genuinely different option.
Rather than trying to control foot motion with a firm support shell, it emphasizes cushioning and flexibility while still providing some heel and arch structure.
That may make more sense if your primary complaint is sore, tired feet rather than a known arch or pronation problem.
Best for
- Sore or tired feet
- People who prefer softer cushioning
- Everyday walking
- Athletic shoes
- People who find rigid orthotics uncomfortable
- Someone looking for a less aggressive starting point
Not ideal for
- Significant overpronation requiring more structured support
- People specifically needing a firm orthotic
- Severe foot deformity
- Shoes without enough room for a full-length insert
Superfeet currently lists this model as having soft cushioning and a flexible heel cradle. The company also currently describes it as having limited availability, so check availability before relying on this particular model as your only option.
Bottom line: This is the softer choice in this guide and may be worth considering if firm orthotics feel too aggressive.
Which Type of Insole Should You Choose?
Instead of choosing an insole because it says “arthritis” on the package, start with what your feet actually need.
Choose cushioning if your feet mainly feel sore or tired
If your feet ache after standing or walking but you don’t have a known arch problem, start by considering a cushioning-focused option.
A softer insole may be more comfortable than a highly structured orthotic.
The Superfeet All-Purpose Cushion is the most cushioning-oriented choice in this guide.
Choose structured support if your feet feel unstable or unsupported
If you know that you have a particular arch profile or tend to overpronate, a structured insole may make more sense.
PowerStep Pinnacle and Superfeet All-Purpose Support Medium Arch are both structured choices, but they have different support designs.
Consider a high-arch option if you have high arches
Don’t assume that more arch support is automatically better.
An insole with an arch that is too high can create pressure and discomfort.
Spenco Total Support Max is specifically designed around a high-arch profile. Superfeet and PowerStep also make other arch-specific models.
Consider a metatarsal-support option if the ball of your foot hurts
If your pain is concentrated around the ball of the foot, look for an insole designed with forefoot or metatarsal support rather than simply buying the most heavily cushioned insert.
The Spenco Total Support Max includes a metatarsal arch support designed to reduce pressure around the ball of the foot.
If the problem is severe, persistent, or associated with a visible deformity, an evaluation by a podiatrist may be more useful than trying multiple inserts.
How to Check Your Arch Type
You don’t need an expensive foot scanner to get a rough idea of your arch type.
One simple method is the wet-foot test.
- Wet the bottom of your foot.
- Step onto a piece of cardboard or dark paper.
- Look at the shape of the footprint.
- Compare the amount of midfoot that makes contact with the surface.
A footprint with a broad area of midfoot contact can suggest a lower arch. A moderate curve usually suggests a medium or neutral arch. A very narrow connection between the heel and forefoot can suggest a higher arch.
This is only a rough screening method. It shouldn’t be treated as a medical diagnosis.
If an insole consistently creates pressure in your arch, heel, or another part of your foot, don’t assume you simply need to “break it in.” The support profile may not be right for you.
Check Your Shoes Before Buying Insoles
A good insole can become a bad combination if your shoes don’t have enough room.
Look for a removable factory insole
Many full-length orthotics are designed to replace the shoe’s existing removable liner.
If you simply put a thick insole on top of the original one, you may lose valuable space inside the shoe.
That can push your toes upward, create pressure across the top of your foot, or make the shoe feel too tight.
Check the toe box
This is especially important if arthritis has caused swelling, bunions, hammertoes, or sensitivity around the toes.
An insole shouldn’t solve one pressure problem by creating another.
Don’t ignore width
If your feet are wide, make sure the insole isn’t forcing your foot inward or creating pressure against the sides of the shoe.
The shoe itself may need to be wider rather than simply adding a different insole.
Three-quarter-length inserts can help in some shoes
A 3/4-length insole can leave more room around the toes than a full-length insert.
Dr. Scholl’s Arthritis Support Insoles are an example of this type of design.
Do You Need to Remove Your Existing Insoles?
Usually, if the new insole is designed to replace the factory liner, yes.
Check whether your shoe’s existing insole can be removed.
If it comes out easily, compare its shape and length with the replacement insole.
If it is permanently attached, don’t simply add a thick orthotic without checking the available space.
Some 3/4-length products are designed to work differently, so follow the instructions supplied with the particular product.
Give Your Feet Time to Adjust
A firm orthotic can feel very different from the flat foam liner that came with your shoes.
That doesn’t necessarily mean the product is wrong.
At the same time, significant pain isn’t something you should simply push through.
Start with shorter periods of wear and gradually increase the amount of time if your feet are comfortable.
If an insole produces persistent arch pain, numbness, pressure, blisters, or worsening symptoms, stop using it and reconsider the fit or design.
PowerStep says many users adapt to its Pinnacle products within a few days, although individual adjustment varies.
Can Insoles Help Knee or Hip Arthritis?
Possibly, but expectations should be realistic.
An insole can change how your foot is supported and how pressure is distributed during walking. Some orthotics may also influence the mechanics of the ankle, knee, or hip.
However, that doesn’t mean an insole will correct the underlying arthritis or reliably eliminate knee or hip pain.
The Arthritis Foundation notes that orthotics may provide cushioning, redistribute pressure, and address some gait or structural issues, while also noting that research on longer-term effects in knee osteoarthritis is mixed.
If your main problem is knee or hip pain and your feet themselves don’t hurt, it may be worth discussing the issue with a healthcare professional rather than assuming an insole is the answer.
OTC Insoles vs. Custom Orthotics
Over-the-counter insoles are convenient and relatively inexpensive compared with custom orthotics.
They can be a reasonable starting point for someone with mild or moderate symptoms who doesn’t have a major structural foot problem.
Custom orthotics are different.
A podiatrist can assess your foot shape, gait, joint motion, pressure points, and other factors before deciding whether a customized device is appropriate.
The Arthritis Foundation notes that custom orthotics can be useful for some arthritis-related foot problems and that a healthcare professional can evaluate the feet, ankles, hips, and gait when determining whether orthotics are appropriate.
Consider professional evaluation if:
- You have significant foot deformity.
- Your feet have changed shape because of arthritis.
- You have persistent forefoot pain or pressure.
- You have tried several appropriately fitted OTC insoles without improvement.
- An insole causes significant pain or pressure.
- You have an injury or another foot condition in addition to arthritis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are insoles good for arthritis?
They can be helpful for some people, particularly when foot pain, pressure, cushioning, or structural support is part of the problem. But not everyone with arthritis needs an insole, and the right design depends on the person’s foot and symptoms.
What is the best insole for arthritis?
There isn’t one best insole for every type of arthritis or every foot. Dr. Scholl’s Arthritis Support is the most directly arthritis-specific option in this guide. PowerStep Pinnacle and Superfeet All-Purpose Support Medium Arch provide firmer structured support, while Superfeet All-Purpose Cushion provides a softer alternative. Spenco Total Support Max is particularly relevant for high arches and forefoot pressure.
Are gel insoles better than arch-support insoles for arthritis?
Not necessarily.
Gel or soft cushioning can be useful when comfort and impact absorption are the main concerns. A structured arch-support insole may make more sense when you need additional support.
Some products combine both approaches.
Can insoles make arthritis pain worse?
A poorly matched insole can cause new foot discomfort.
An arch that is too high, a support structure that is too firm, or an insole that makes your shoes too tight can all create pressure or discomfort.
If an insole causes persistent pain rather than simply feeling unfamiliar, reconsider the fit and design.
How long do arthritis insoles last?
There isn’t one universal replacement schedule.
The useful replacement signal is declining cushioning or support, visible compression, damage, or the return of symptoms that had previously improved.
Some manufacturers provide specific replacement recommendations. For example, Dr. Scholl’s currently recommends replacing its Arthritis Support Insoles every six months or at the first signs of wear, while PowerStep says its insoles generally last six months or longer depending on use and activity.
Can I use insoles in any shoe?
No.
The insole needs to fit the shoe’s interior dimensions, and many full-length orthotics work best when the original removable liner can be taken out.
A shoe that is already snug may not have enough room for an additional supportive insole.
Should I buy insoles specifically labeled for arthritis?
Not necessarily.
An arthritis-specific product can be a reasonable starting point, but a general orthotic may be a better match if your main issue is high arches, overpronation, forefoot pressure, or another specific foot characteristic.
The design matters more than the word “arthritis” on the package.
When should I see a podiatrist about arthritis and insoles?
Consider seeing a podiatrist if you have significant deformity, persistent foot pain, difficulty finding comfortable footwear, or symptoms that don’t improve with appropriately fitted shoes and OTC inserts.
A professional assessment can also help if you’re unsure whether you need cushioning, structural support, or a custom orthotic.
Related Reading
- Best Shoes for Arthritis Pain Relief: 2026 Top Picks for Feet, Knees & Hips
- How to Choose Shoes for Arthritis: 10 Features to Look For
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor, rheumatologist, or occupational therapist before making changes to how you manage your arthritis.
