The Truth About Orthotics and Your Feet

If you’ve experienced foot pain, you have likely also been told about orthotics. But what are orthotics? Are orthotics beneficial to your feet, or can they be considered detrimental by some? Are they helpful to the structure of your feet? Can orthotics even be used to correct issues, allowing a patient to avoid a possible surgical procedure? The first thing to know is that there is a vast spectrum of orthotics on the market. Some may be beneficial to the foot, but some may not. Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists are going to answer all your questions about orthotics.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics are shoe inserts that support the foot. They are designed to compensate for any abnormal posturing or positioning of the foot, and they are meant to correct a foot that is leaning in a direction that causes pain to the foot. Orthotics typically support the arch of the foot, but there are many types of orthotics on the market. Manufacturers create orthotics from many materials and in many shapes and sizes.

How Orthotics Can Benefit Your Feet

• Improving Foot Function
  Orthotics can improve the function of the foot by righting what was wrong in the foot’s position.
• Pain Relief
  In improving the function of the foot, significant levels of pain relief can be reached. This is because a painful foot is a foot that isn’t functioning normally.
• Prevention of Future Foot Problems
  When the posture of the foot is corrected, this can prevent other foot problems such as bunions, stress fractures, and bone spurs.
• Enhancing Comfort
  All orthotics, no matter the material or make, are designed to comfort the foot. With the use of orthotics, you can find the comfort you need to walk with a greater sense of ease and cushion.

When to Consider Orthotics

There are several categories of issues for people who may want to consider orthotics.

• High Arches or Flat Feet
  Orthotics can provide arch support for people with high arches. For people who have flat feet, orthotics can help compensate for this and support the lower back.
• Athletic Injuries or Issues
  Even athletes who don’t have issues may want to consider orthotics. Orthotics can help cushion the stress of impact on the foot that comes along with excessive levels of exercise.
• Plantar Fasciitis or Achilles Tendonitis
  Orthotics can support the foot of someone who is experiencing plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. This can alleviate pain in the foot caused by these conditions.
• Lower back, knee, or hip pain
  Many people don’t know that some lower back, knee, or hip pain can originate at the feet. Supporting and positioning the feet correctly can help remedy these position issues.
• Long periods of standing
  People who stand for long periods for work or other reasons can benefit from using orthotics.

The Process of Getting Custom Orthotics

You may have heard that not all orthotics are the same. You’re exactly right. Custom orthotics can be ordered to meet your foot’s exact needs and mitigate the misalignment in your feet. To order custom orthotics, you will need to:

1. Meet with a doctor who specializes in foot care. This doctor will assess your pain level, observe your gait, and check for misalignment, overpronation, and supination. They’ll also analyze your arch, foot structure, and general flexibility.
2. Have your feet scanned or impressions made of the foot. Next, a doctor may use a digital scanner to see a better, more detailed image of your foot. They may also make a mold of your feet with foam.
3. Be sure to have the orthotics specially fitted to your shoes. You’ll want to try them in your shoes to make sure they fit.
4. Break them in. Give this process at least a few weeks. If you aren’t happy with the way they fit or feel, make an appointment and check in with your doctor again.
5. File with Insurance. Insurance should cover orthotics, at least partially.

Common Myths About Orthotics

• Myth 1: Orthotics are only for people with serious foot problems.
  Any person who is on their feet for any significant part of their day can benefit from orthotics. Orthotics can also be beneficial for people who have back, knee, and hip issues.
• Myth 2: Orthotics are uncomfortable and hard to wear.
  Choosing the right orthotics means a greater level of comfort. If your orthotics are uncomfortable, check back in with your doctor until you find the pair that works for you.
• Myth 3: Orthotics are only needed for older adults.
  Orthotics are helpful for people of all ages. Athletes of all levels may benefit from the use of orthotics.
• Myth 4: Orthotics are a permanent solution.
  Orthotics may remedy your issues for a long time. However, you may still need additional treatment for your foot.

How to Care for Your Orthotics

To care for your orthotics, use a damp cloth. Avoid soaking orthotics in water, as this may change the fit or shape.

When to Seek Professional Help

OTC orthotics may work for you. When you need custom orthotics, it is time to seek professional help. If foot pain persists or you think you need an adjustment in your foot, the doctors at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists are ready to provide you with all the answers you need about orthotics.

Conclusion

Whether you choose over-the-counter orthotics or custom orthotics, you will need to take some time to adjust to your new feel. Orthotics can be immensely helpful for anyone who has foot, back, ankle, or hip issues, and they can help you find the comfort you need.

Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists

Still, have questions about orthotics? Turn to the team at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists for all your orthotic needs. In the greater Houston area, Dr. Brian Lee and his team at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists are the experts in the field of foot specialists. We will help you maintain your feet so that they remain healthy and strong. With in-house X-ray and state-of-the-art equipment such as ultrasound, shockwave, and laser technology, we have all the answers for you about your feet. For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact us or visit our website.