Dealing with an aching foot daily is super stressful. You can use inserts and relieve your pain temporarily, but it will not give you a permanent solution. Besides, depending on your condition, you might need an ‘orthotic’ instead of inserts.
Inserts that are available over the counter surely provide support and cushioning, but they are not custom-made for you. Orthotics, on the other hand, are quite different. They are prescription medical devices. You wear it inside your shoes to correct any biomechanical foot issues. They are even helpful when the cause of your foot ache is medical conditions like plantar fasciitis, diabetes, arthritis, etc. In some cases, orthotics even helps in avoiding surgery.
Why Orthotics are better?
Several pains throughout your musculoskeletal system are a result of your foot problems. Function issues or misalignment in your feet and ankle can create misalignment elsewhere. The outcome is instability and pain throughout the body. Fortunately, you need not live with this pain anymore. Some treatments can end your suffering. Orthotics is one such tool.
Compared to normal inserts, orthotics is expensive, but they are surely worth it. You can buy orthotic slippers with arch support Australia from Foot Logics. They work with podiatrists and physiotherapists to develop a range of orthotic insoles, slippers, thongs, etc. If you are done dealing with foot aches, do visit their store.
Orthotics will provide you with structural support and thereby clear all your abnormalities and functional issues. Conditions that can be treated with the help of orthotics are:
- Flat feet or high arches
- Under- or over-pronation
- Arthritis
- Bursitis
- Bunions and calluses
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Plantar fasciitis or heel spurs
- Tendinitis
- Postsurgical recovery
- Sports injuries
If you are not sure whether you need a prescription device or not, you can talk to your podiatrist. A doctor, who specializes in foot care will surely be able to recommend what is better for you.
What your podiatrist checks before prescribing orthotics?
In your first visit, your podiatrist will take a 3d image of your feet, as well as perform a thorough examination. He/she might ask you to walk around and will note down how your ankles, legs, feet, and hips move. If there is a need for orthotics, your podiatrist will create an accurate cast of your feet. As soon as the mold is ready, a professional will make orthotics for you.
Different types of orthotics:
Rigid Orthotics
These are made using plastic or carbon fiber. They are perfect for closed toes shoes and low heels. This type of orthotic will relieve pain in the legs, thighs, and lower back.
Soft orthotics
The orthotics is made from soft compression materials. They are specifically designed to avoid the pressure on the sore spots. These are ideal for individuals suffering from diabetic foot ulcers or plantar fasciitis.
To ensure you are buying the right type of orthotics understands your feet problems first. Your goal is to correct your functional issues and provide the required support to your feet. So, consult a good podiatrist, and check the available orthotic devices today.