Orthotics are prepared foot supports that are used to treat many different foot disorders. Orthotics are designed to be worn under the heel and arch of the foot to help relieve pain, absorb shock, and correct abnormalities. Many people suffer from hyperpronation (flat feet) and hypersupination (high arches) which will cause instability in the foot, and other areas, leading to pain from excessive stress and strain. Orthotics work to ease these issues and improve foot functions. Orthotics will also help to relieve pain in other areas of the body such as ankles, legs, backs, knees, and hips.
The Two Types of Orthotics
There are two types of orthotics; prefabricated and custom. The prefabricated, or over-the-counter (OTC) may treat mild foot discomfort, but is not that effective in treating mild to severe pain or chronic foot pain. The problem with OTC orthotics is that every person has their own unique foot shape and size. A generic orthotic may not fit your foot properly, which will decrease its functionality.
To get the maximum benefits from your orthotic a custom-tailored device is recommended. The custom orthotics will meet the specific needs of your foot. To ensure an exact match, our office has invested in a Pedalign machine. The Pedalign machine will take a digital scan of your foot measuring for size, width, pressure points and other areas. This digital scan is then sent to the company to be used to design your individual orthotic.
Everyone with feet can benefit from orthotics. There is no such thing as perfect feet; we all experience foot pain and stress from time to time, some more than others. Orthotics can help to prevent other foot issues from developing and ease the pain that could prevent you from living a normal, active lifestyle.
How do you know if you need orthotics?
• You have flat feet or feet with high arches
• Your feet hurt after standing on them for a period of time
• You have excessive weight
• You have foot, ankle, knee, hip or back pain
• Your feet point inward or outward when you walk
• One leg is longer than the other
• You are athletic/participate in sports (football, basketball, baseball, tennis, golf, bowling...)
• You have obvious foot issues (bunions, corns, claw toe, plantar fasciitis)
Orthotic Benefits for Athletes
Orthotics have been proven to increase performance for athletes, relieve foot pain and fatigue, and significantly improve quality of life.
