Medical Testimonials

Neil Frame MChS DPodM Podiatry Specialist (Biomechanics)

As a Podiatrist and specialist treating biomechanical issues for over 30 years, in both the public and private sectors, I have found a number of my treatment protocols challenged by an alternative, innovative approach in the treatment of some pathomechanically related musculoskeletal conditions. Two and a half years ago I was introduced to a modern technology in foot strengthening - Barefoot Science insoles. Principally the insole's efficacy is based on neuromuscular stimulation, proprioceptive enhancement and resultant progressive, re-posturing. This proven safe, foot empowerment system adjusts functionality in a positive way, with the capability of curing flat feet semi permanently. Research indicates that these insoles activate the parasympathetic nervous system, consequentially enhancing the functional kinetic chain. In excess of 600 patients clinically, I have consistently observed and recorded outcomes that have been practice-modifying. It is my opinion that this is a valid, alternate approach to the treatment of numerous musculoskeletal disorders that represents a fundamental shift in the approach to the science of biomechanics.

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

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 me the 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. Yours sincerely, Terence David Moore

Michael P.Olden, H.t; Ost; C-Ped; Pmac.American Board for Certifications in Orthotics, Prosthetics and Pedorthics.

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... 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!

Richard PadyTriathlon Coach, Trainer and Competitor

As a high performance coach to athletes in the world of endurance sports I see the wear and tear training has on the body over time.  You would be hard pressed to meet a serious runner, triathlete, or cyclist who has not had a training related injury.  It is these injuries that destroy the dreams and goals of my athletes.   The number one way I find to make my clients successful is to create a program that is challenging but allow them to be consistent, which means staying injury free.  Being able to train consistently allows the body to adapt slowly.  But this type of training also breaks the body down even with the proper rest.  The reality is our bodies are not perfect, as we train we strengthen the muscles we are working even if these are not the correct muscle that should be used.  In doing so we create imbalances in our movements and this makes the body weak and open to injury.   As the coach it is my job to figure out how to stop these imbalances from occurring in the first place which is not an easy job.  So when there is a product that helps not masks the problem I’m always interested to learn more.  



About a year ago I was introduced to Barefoot Science.  The concept was proactive which I really like.  I was dealing with an injury from a fall that had changed my gait and I had created pain in my heel.  The Barefoot Science was not an instant fix for me as my injury was severe but what I noticed was over time how my gait changed.  How my shoes are now wearing down differently. My increased arch height and strength has eliminated my pronation, re-aligned my ankle, knee, hips and reduced my internal tibial rotation which allows for a much more efficient power transfer from the ground or the pedal. I am now driving off my big toe which I had never done in the past.  I also found my glutes are firing more which we know are very inactive in most runners/cyclists and is the reason for many injuries. I now realize that orthoses which are designed to accommodate ankle, foot, knee misalignments and weak, dysfunctional foot musculature, are not the best option. 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.

Sean Pena VERTIMAX Master Trainer • Physio • Biomechanics Expert • Trainer • Speed Specialist

I have personally witnessed this product change muscle firing patterns in the glutes and hamstrings in a mere 300 steps once the product was inserted into the shoe. This change has been demonstrated in the elite athletes I deal with on a daily basis to the average person looking to find more stable and symmetrical balance. Rather than using a rigid orthotic that braces the foot, these insoles, are adaptive and teach the foot to work more efficiently and properly. Bottom line whether you are just exercising to stay healthy or you are an Olympic sprinter or professional athlete, less injuries and better performance will allow you to keep doing what you are doing, do it with less pain, and progress in your goals. Barefoot Science has developed a simple way to begin to maximize the use of all of the lanes in your nervous system’s highway and in turn create stability, performance and symmetry. I work with Olympic and professional athletes such as Will Claye, Nick Symmonds, Justin Gatlin, Tyson Gay and Marvin Bracy, all of whom have had a beneficial effect using Barefoot Science insoles. I would recommend them to all levels of athletes, even the normal person walking or hiking.

Darryl T. Bossence, B. Sc., D.C. Doctor of Chiropractic

We have been using the Barefoot Science system for approximately 18 months and have been pleased with the results they have generated. I am most interested in the Barefoot Science system because of the dynamic “rehabilitative” approach that they stimulate in the body vs. The static “bracing” theory that traditional orthotics tend to use. It is for this reason that I recommend Barefoot Science and so it is important for patients to understand this principle. I see many lower kinetic chain complaints in this office and Barefoot Science is a logical aid to treatment. Its availability is quite cost-effective, and I believe it is a worthwhile cause to develop. I believe that patient education is paramount for compliance and for ultimately achieving results. Therefore, I believe the development of educational tools for this product is a sound investment. Sincerely,

Dr. Lawrence S. Bell, B.Sc., M.Sc., D.C., FCCSS(C), FICC

It was while searching for an extra light orthotic for track and field spikes six years ago that I chanced upon the Barefoot Science Foot Strengthening System. From the get go I was getting feedback that these inserts were preferred by the athletes over their original products. I have seen ironing board flat feet transform into pain free normal functioning feet. My own story involves a badly crushed and nearly amputated foot that was partially responsible for my chiropractic decision. I now realize that trapping my foot into a rigid orthotic doomed a two-year rehabilitative effort. After faithfully wearing Barefoot Science insoles, I now have an arch and a pain-free foot. Expect to feel a difference as you start implementing the Barefoot System. You will usually realise change throughout the entire Lower Kinetic Chain as it realigns and adapts to the Barefoot System. These minor symptoms are temporary and confirm a change is in process. I am quite confident that the Barefoot Science Foot Strengthening System will make a difference to your wellness. I have seen the results clinically and can personally attest to their effectiveness. Yours Sincerely,

Dr. Mark Cucuzzella MD FAAFPProfessor West Virginia University School of Medicine WVU Center for Diabetes and Metabolic Health

A unique category of insoles is a Proprioceptive Based insole by Barefoot Science. The patented insole focuses on the use of the body’s own sensory perception and proprioception to introduce a mild stimulus to a region corresponding with the foot’s center of mass. The body’s natural response to the stimulus is to move away and thus a series of continuous and minute muscle contractions are begun. The insole works with a progressive series of inserts, much like a progressive resistance training program, to gradually introduce this muscle strengthening component to the foot. So as opposed to the concept of brace or support or the concept of cushion and insulate, here the concept is strengthen / rehabilitate. For those of us that have begun questioning the benefits of the brace-support and cushion footwear products this makes perfect sense. Another interesting aspect of the insole is how it interfaces with the foot. The typical science of insoles focuses on primarily supporting the foot’s medial arch and possibly, depending on product, the transverse and lateral arches. The shape and concept behind Barefoot Science is in interfacing with the foot’s centre of mass. This key region is also aligned with the body’s line of action through the foot and thus it creates a dome like effect that the foot can rotate about. From an anatomical point of the view the hip is like a ball-socket, the knee is like a simple hinge and therefore the foot, to interact multi-directionally with the ground, it needs to have a ball-socket multi-directional capacity also. This aspect is especially beneficial for those running or doing any sports on uneven surfaces. Apart from the sock, the insole is the layer in most immediate contact with the foot. The features and benefits of this insole comes as close as can be found to bringing the benefits of actual foot/ground interface inside the shoe to the foot/insole interface. It is also transferable into daily footwear effectively providing progressive barefoot like stimulation for every step taken which in theory should reduce the injury rate and shorten the transition time that some have associated with the minimalist/barefoot transition. Overall the advantages of improved foot strength translate into more efficient and a less injury prone movement. The natural mechanics of the musculoskeletal system are capable of providing the shock absorption and support our body requires for most activity. Insoles focusing on the strengthening and rehabilitation of the foot make the most sense. These insoles are ultra-light weight, flexible and come in full and 3⁄4 length. This product makes sense for not only minimalist runners but for the entire shoe wearing population.

JEFF STAPLETONMSc. Exercise Physiology • Nationally Certified Level III Coach • President – Team Over The Top

I have been running barefoot or in the Vibram FFs for the past decade. Thus, I do not need to be "educated" re: the benefits of barefoot midfoot running. My squat/scoot technique of tight/light/compact/forward running has proven time & again to be one of the safest, most efficient & powerful ways to distance run. My physical issues started years previously when (like most serious runners) I wore the 'coffins' religiously. After fighting piriformis & Achilles tendonitis issues off & on for years, I switched to barefoot/FFs running. However, I still had the lingering issues. After having hours of various treatments from some of the best practitioners in Ontario over a number of years, I was ready to accept my fate as a 'run-in-constant-pain' runner (if I wanted to continue running @ all). This in spite of all my knowledge, specific training off-road & barefoot running. I met Lance & Rob from Barefoot Science about 2 years ago &, after a bit of convincing, tried the full sole graded proprioceptive insert. Almost immediately, I noticed a reduction in my Achilles pain. The piriformis pain was slower to dissipate (& still crops up from time to time). I continue to wear the 1/2 sole insert in my work & dress shoes & even use them in my FFs during the depths of our Canadian winters. I'm convinced that the neuromuscular/proprioceptive stimuli provided by the Barefoot Science inserts work in conjunction with barefoot training/running to keep the feet, Achilles, calves, knees, hams., quads., hips, gluts & back in proper balance & injury-free. A # of my clients (runners & athletes) are now using the B-S inserts with consistently positive results.

Thomas D McClain, M.D. Orthopedic Surgeon

In my own practice, I have recommended barefoot science and approximately 125 cases over the past 12 months. The primary underline pathology for which I generally use perfect science is pes planus and hind foot pronation and the resultant painful consequences in adults. I have also recommended it for cases of foot fracture, adolescent foot pain syndrome‘s, and treatment of problems above the ankle including knee, hip, and low back pain. Experience has shown an extremely high compliance rate, and patient satisfaction is also very high. My patients are now requesting information on re-ordering from the company. I believe Barefoot Science content not only a means of treating musculoskeletal problems, both in and related to the foot, but also offers an exciting new conceptual framework to look at these problems, and truly understand the cause, and therefore the treatment of a variety of disabling conditions. Barefoot Science philosophies are based on sound medical and scientific principles, common sense and provide a vastly superior understanding of foot function when compared to conventional views. Barefoot science technologies clearly offer the most effective preventative and rehabilitative treatment option available today to address poor structural integrity of the foot’s arch system. To paraphrase Dr. F. Khan, “Barefoot Science offers a unique, simple and effective therapy that could be of immeasurable benefit to the multitude suffering from foot disorders and related secondary effects. Both static and functional abnormalities have been studied and corrective measures addressed.” Within four months I have become a firm believer and it’s potential for treating not only foot related complaints, but also that it can play a very positive role in relieving other types of musculoskeletal pain in the ankle, knee, hip, and lower back. I have personally used this device for the last four months and have recommended it to numerous family members, as well as friends and acquaintances. A select group of my patients, who have previously presented a significant challenge with respect to foot pain, structural problems of the foot, and associated musculoskeletal problems above the level of the foot and ankle, have been using them as well. Many in this group had previously used custom foot orthotics without success in alleviating their symptoms. This entire group represents a spectrum of use spanning from two weeks to more than three months. Invariably, patients are reporting definite satisfaction with their introduction to and use of Barefoot science technology and in fact all have noted positive benefits. I have seen a number of cases where there was significant relief of the symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, inter-metatarsal neuroma, tendonitis of the peroneal and posterior tibial tendons, and definite decrease in the pain associated with hallux valgus, hammer toes, pes planus, and hind foot pronation. I have seen patient’s report improvement in the symptoms of knee pain associated with genu valgus, and associated conditions such as iliotibial band syndrome, trochanteric bursitis of the hip, and low back pain due to chronic lumbar strain. I also believe that the Orthopedic community would be quite interested in Barefoot Science’s significant advances in the study of foot biomechanics, and the potential linkage of maladaptive foot pathology to other common problems in the lower extremities and spine. As you are well aware, the main population of North America is rapidly entering an age range where these conditions were well increasingly impact on daily life and the number of people who can benefit from the Barefoot Science technology will continue to grow indefinitely. Clearly, orthopedic surgeons must be able to address these needs in their patient population. Barefoot Science content for the unique combination of cost-effectiveness and a favorable outcome in a high percentage of cases. It also presents a unique opportunity for both the patient and the practitioner to participate in the process of self education that can lead not only to effective treatment of many common painful disorders, but participation in healthier lifestyle choices, and positively influence footwear selection. With increasing orthopedic acceptance, I predict other medical professionals Will also begin to incorporate Barefoot science technology in their practices. I believe primary care physicians, chiropractors, physical therapist and Athletic trainers, will all see the value of this technology and begin to use it. As you are aware, the US Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Association estimates that at least 85% of Americans will see a medical professional for advice and treatment for foot related musculoskeletal problems at some point during their lifetime. Thomas D McClain, M.D. American Board of orthopedic surgery American Academy of Orthopedic surgeons

Dave Lemke Sports/Neuromuscular Therapy Educator

Honestly if I could bring about this kind of change with manual therapy and exercise then folks would flock to my seminars.

Dr. Rick L, D.C.

I am a practicing Chiropractor and have been in practice 35 years. I treat not only spine and back problems but foot problems having taken a three year post graduate orthopedics program in addition to my basic chiropractic training. I have chronic foot problems myself and have worn foot orthotics for 15 years both over the counter brands as well as custom physician prescribed. I have been using the barefoot science insoles for approximately five weeks and have just started on the level 4 inserts. I noticed a definite reduction in foot pain the first week. After week three of using the barefoot science insoles I had to go back and use my previous orthotics two days per week, because I needed more medial arch support for a severely pronated left foot due to congenital underdevelopment of the medial arch. I feel the benefit to the barefoot science insole is their unique design which lifts and spreads the metatarsal bones which can facilitate the breaking up of scar tissue and fixations while increasing range of motion in the midfoot. The main weakness of the system as I see it is the lack of support for the medial and lateral arches of the foot. For the average person with foot and arch pain due to old sprains/strains or who have mild arch imbalances, the barefoot science system may be the only foot orthoses necessary to achieve symptom relief. For individuals with severe flat foot, congenital issues or inflammation such as plantar fascitis, use of a regular physician prescribed orthotic may be necessary in the acute stage and then periodically as needed while the Barefoot Science science insoles are used.

Bruce Comstock, D.C.

I have been using your product on my patients for two years now, and approximately 1,600 cases, with nothing less than spectacular results. The list of conditions, that I have seen alleviated by barefoot science, includes: bunions, metatarsalgia, clawed toes, hammertoes, corns, plantar fasciitis, patellar malalignment, chondromalacia patellae, iliotibial band syndrome, recurrent low back pain of mechanical origin, recurring mid back pain, headaches, and TMJ syndrome. I have witnessed an 11 year olds lifelong “pigeon-toed” gate disappear and just four steps using Barefoot Science insoles, and I have seen the claw toes of a 60-year-old become normal within a month, using Barefoot Science insoles. It has become a routine, in this office, to visibly restore the longitudinal and transverse foot arches, of individuals as old as 32. I have found that older patients (ie: beyond 50 years of age) who, despite their developed foot deformity‘s, are capable of full symptomatic ease via the use of barefoot science insoles, and let patients under the age of 12 not only have their foot arches restored, but symptoms are usually gone in less than one week of using the Barefoot Science insoles. I believe the most powerful evidence for the efficacy and uniqueness of barefoot science technology comes from the pleasure and gratitude expressed by individuals who, due to many years of “custom fitted”/rigid orthotics, suffered severe and relentless pain, until Barefoot Science insoles completely ameliorated their symptoms…. In most cases, taking less than three weeks to do so. Patients who accept my advice, to implement daily use of Barefoot Science insoles, have been approximately 95% compliant in their usage. Of these compliant users, I estimate the success rate (ie - symptom eradication) to be 90-95%. I thank you and commend you for creating this wonderfully effective product. It may well be the most significant orthopedic product of all time. Sincerely, Bruce Comstock

Dr. Steven Benson, D.C.

I am writing a brief testimonial of my remarkable experience with Barefoot Science orthotics. I am forty-nine years of age and have used custom orthotics for thirty-four years, and have been a practicing D.C. for twenty-two years with emphasis on Sports Medicine. Three years ago I developed pain in my right great toe which did not respond to a year of Active Release Technique, Footmaxx Orthotics, anti- inflammatories and various muscle stretches and exercises. I noticed immediate reduction of pain with use of the Barefoot Science Therapeutic orthotic, and my foot became pain-free in two or three months. Tension that had accumulated in my hips over the last decade also faded away. To my amazement, when I was in Hawaii last month I was able to walk and run in the sand, with my bare feet, without excruciating ankle pain from hyperpronation. I have not been able to do this since I was a teenager! I also wear light weight slip-on dress shoes now with complete comfort which has never been possible with custom orthotics. My Footmaxx gait analysis shows improved foot function in several respects but the analysis does not compare with the remarkable clinical improvement I am enjoying. Many chiropractors I have shared this information with look at the Barefoot Science orthotic and state that it is too flimsy to provide arch support, and that is true. But, when I wear them my feet no longer hyperpronate, a finding they cannot explain. Barefoot Science is working well with about 95% of my patients. Some have been brought back from partial disability when custom orthotics failed. Thank you for making this exceptional product available at an affordable price with a guarantee. You have made my job easier and changed a lot of people’s lives for the better. Best regards, Dr. Steven Benson

Astrid Mora Physical Therapist

I'm working with the German freestyle team this year. My test group is doing great; especially one man who did an endurance race in September. The race is 360km with a difference in height of 33.000m. It took him 108 hours of non-stop running to complete the race, but he made it. He had a discus bulging this summer and had lost sensibility in his left foot and had constant pain on the back. I gave him your insoles and started with Dr. Gorman’s exercises at the end of July and he did the exercises regularly every day. As the race started he was almost pain free (he had also had some nitrogen oxides infiltration). He finished the race and got 66th out of over 1000 participants. After the race he recovered, and now a few weeks ago, he did an MRI to control the discus bulging but it turned out that it was gone... the doctors couldn't believe it. He claims that he used to sprain his ankle about 20 times a day (during training and also during inspection which he made before I gave him the insoles) after wearing the Barefoot Science insoles (during the race he had level 1) he didn't sprain once! What's more to say??? Just awesome! One more thing I noticed is that he had consumed this year’s shoes in a completely different way than last year (same model of shoes). This year they were used more at the center; last year the entire rear part of the shoes’ sole was completely gone. So… all in all I think I can say that it's working out pretty well!

Dr. Steven Benson, D.C. Chiropractor

I am writing a brief testimonial of my remarkable experience with Barefoot Science orthotics. I am forty-nine years of age and have used custom orthotics for thirty-four years, and have been a practicing D.C. for twenty-two years with emphasis on Sports Medicine. Three years ago I developed pain in my right great toe which did not respond to a year of Active Release Technique, Footmaxx Orthotics, anti- inflammatories and various muscle stretches and exercises. I noticed immediate reduction of pain with use of the Barefoot Science Therapeutic orthotic, and my foot became pain-free in two or three months. Tension that had accumulated in my hips over the last decade also faded away. To my amazement, when I was in Hawaii last month I was able to walk and run in the sand, with my bare feet, without excruciating ankle pain from hyperpronation. I have not been able to do this since I was a teenager! I also wear light weight slip-on dress shoes now with complete comfort which has never been possible with custom orthotics. My Footmaxx gait analysis shows improved foot function in several respects but the analysis does not compare with the remarkable clinical improvement I am enjoying. Many chiropractors I have shared this information with look at the Barefoot Science orthotic and state that it is too flimsy to provide arch support, and that is true. But, when I wear them my feet no longer hyperpronate, a finding they cannot explain. Barefoot Science is working well with about 95% of my patients. Some have been brought back from partial disability when custom orthotics failed. Thank you for making this exceptional product available at an affordable price with a guarantee. You have made my job easier and changed a lot of people’s lives for the better. Best regards, Dr. Steven Benson

Jerome C. J. Fryer BSc. D.C. (hons) Chiropractor

Dear Barefoot Science: Firstly, I want to thank you guys for developing a product that follows the natural principles of the human body. When I began as a chiropractor, so many orthotic companies approached me. None of them had grasped one of the underlying themes taught to me at Western States Chiropractic College (i.e., Janda’s work on the “short foot”). If you don’t know Janda, he is a world-renowned bodywork expert and his work has influenced many bodywork leaders today. I have many success stories; too many too list. Everything from rehabililitating calcaneal fractures to keeping orthopedic surgery off of valgus deformities of the first ray. But I will share the most recent when I was approached last week by a 45 yr old female that had been suffering with bilateral buttock pain for two years. It looked like a bilateral presentation of piriformis syndrome where the pain pattern correlated with the trigger point referral map of Travel and Simons work. She had just been injected with cortisone and her pain level had taken new heights. The onset of her symptoms came on slowly two years ago after a long period of walking (hint. hint). I asked her if she had any problems with her feet. She replied “no”. One look and after a navicular drop test of > 14mm I new what was going on. Bilateral hyperpronation syndrome. Of course this was my working diagnosis and I suspected that the internal rotation of the femur was causing the external rotators of the hip to over work; to a point of developing trigger points. I adjusted her low back, did some soft tissue work on her external rotators and put her into Barefoot Science. Since then, where now it has been three weeks, with no pain, has sent a thank you note to the person that referred her to me, and is currently moving up the barefoot stages to decrease internal torsion of her tibia. Even more exciting is the fact we are building and training the musculo-skeletal system from the bottom- up. A rigid orthotic would do what?....push up the medial longitudinal arch and hold it up like a crutch. Take it away...it will fall. In my opinion, this would make the system even weaker and even more dependant on a rigid orthotic. Dependency is not the goal...independency is. I am proud to be serving my fellow man with a product that I can feel good about for a fraction of the cost of a ‘traditional rigid orthotic’. Thank you Barefoot Science. Sincerely, Jerome C. J. Fryer BSc. DC (hons) Chiropractor