Using an Orthotic in a shoe is never easy, as most shoes will not accomodate them. These arch supports by Birkenstock can temporarily replace the orthotic brace.. These arch supports have a steel shaft, in a twisted design, underneath the arch! The support for the arch is tremendous - but it does not hurt the arch, nor the foot.
These inserts are intended to feel stiff, they cannot loosen up due to the way they are made. It's a pity they did not work for some folks I've had more comfortable shoes using them..They do have to be moved forwards or backwards a bit til you get the arch exactly where it feels good..