Insight Orthopedics & Sports Medicine – Custom foot orthotics can be beneficial for a wide range of people who experience foot-related issues or lower limb abnormalities, including athletes, workers who spend long hours on their feet, and those with certain medical conditions. Also known as shoe inserts, these devices are specially designed for your unique needs to address various foot-related problems, provide support, and relieve pain. If you are experiencing persistent foot pain or conditions, it may be time to explore your options. Here are ten signs you should consider custom foot orthotics.
Foot Pain
The most common reason people consider custom foot orthotics is chronic foot pain. If you are experiencing pain in the arches, heels, or balls of your feet, custom orthotics are an effective way to address discomfort by redistributing pressure and providing cushioning.
Heel Pain
If you are experiencing heel pain it is likely the result of a common condition called plantar fasciitis, which occurs when the thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes becomes inflamed. Custom orthotics can provide additional support to reduce strain on the plantar fascia and reduce symptoms.
Flat Feet
Custom orthotics are a great way to address flat foot issues, which occur when the arches of the foot collapse and cause the entire sole to make contact with the floor. One of the primary benefits of custom orthotics is additional arch support, but they can also help align the foot and ankle to reduce stress on joints, reduce impact and pressure on feet, and improve stability by providing a better foundation.
High Arches
Issues from high arches, which are defined as an excessive upward curvature of the foot’s arch, can also be improved with custom orthotics. Like with flat feet, orthotics provide arch support, shock absorption, and better alignment. They can also improve uneven weight distribution common in high-arched feet and prevent overuse injuries such as stress fractures and shin splints.
Bunions
Bunions are common but painful bony protrusions that often form on the base of the big toe that can make it difficult to walk and find comfortable shoes. Although custom orthotics cannot treat the underlying condition, they can help alleviate symptoms by redistributing pressure and weight away from the bunion and provide extra padding for relief. Bunions are usually the result of an imbalance in foot alignment, which custom orthotics can also address.
Shin Splints
Shin splints occur when the shinbone and surrounding tissues experience overuse or stress. Custom orthotics can provide additional support for the arch of the foot, reducing stress on the shin. They can also absorb shock, which is common during running and walking, and prevent excessive movement or rotation during activities.
Overpronation or Supination
Abnormal foot pronation (rolling inward) or supination (rolling outward) can be addressed with custom orthotics. Proper arch support will help prevent the foot from collapsing inward excessively. For outward rolling, wedge support can provide a more natural alignment and also provide some additional cushioning to absorb impacts.
Foot Fatigue
It is common to experience foot fatigue and custom orthotics can help in several ways. From providing optimal arch support and alignment to reducing pressure points and enhancing stability, a personalized solution will ensure you are addressing the root causes of your symptoms.
Sports Injuries
Custom foot orthotics can play an important role in both treating and preventing sports injuries. High-impact sports that involve running, jumping, and excessive starting and stopping subject the feet to repetitive stress. Custom orthotics can neutralize this by absorbing shock, correcting structure and gait issues, and providing greater stability for both the feet and ankles so you can maintain peak performance.
Diabetic Foot Issues
Diabetes can cause a variety of serious foot issues, including neuropathy, poor circulation, and changes in the foot’s structure. Custom orthotics can address some of these issues and promote better foot health by reducing pressure, providing enhanced cushioning, and accommodating foot deformities.
Whether you are experiencing foot pain, are an athlete, or have a medical condition like diabetes, custom foot orthotics can provide comfort, support, and protection. It is important to always consult a healthcare professional who can recommend orthotics appropriate for your specific condition and will ensure they are designed and fitted for optimal performance. If you are interested in custom foot orthotics, contact Insight Orthopedics & Sports Medicine today to learn more and schedule an appointment.
FAQ
Q: How are custom foot orthotics made?
A: Custom foot orthotics are made by taking impressions of the feet, which are then used to create inserts specifically designed for a person’s foot shape and unique needs.
Q: How long will custom foot orthotics last?
A: An average custom foot orthotic should last between one and five years. The lifespan of custom foot orthotics varies depending on a range of factors, including the type of orthotic, the foot condition being addressed, and how often the orthotic is used.
Q: How are custom foot orthotics better than over the counter insoles?
A: Insoles purchased in stores are mass-produced and designed to provide general support. Custom foot orthotics are personalized for specific needs, use better materials, and offer targeted support for medical conditions.