Are Orthotics good for your Feet?

As we go through life, our feet often take a beating. Whether it’s from the demands of day-to-day activities or from years of running and walking, feet can get tired, sore, and even injured. One way to potentially reduce the effects of wear and tear on our feet is with Orthotics. But do Orthotics really work? And what are Orthotics? In this article, we will explore the potential benefits and drawbacks of using Orthotics for foot health.

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are devices used to treat foot and lower limb disorders. They are custom-made to fit an individual’s feet and can be used for a variety of different conditions. They can be of great help in reducing foot pain, ankle pain and leg pain by providing support for arches or correcting any structural misalignments present in the foot. 

Most Orthotics are made up of semi-rigid plastic material that is moulded to the shape of your feet and then inserted into your shoe. These moulds are created by an orthodontist, a medical professional who specializes in the creation of Orthotics. In order to create the custom-made orthotic, an orthodontist will take measurements of your feet and possibly other parts of your legs and feet (ankles, knees) as well. 

The orthodontist will then take these measurements and create a 3D model of your feet/legs. This model is then used to create a mould or cast of your feet, which is what the orthotic is made from. The main purpose of a custom-made orthotic is to support a certain part of the foot in order to relieve pain.

Benefits of Orthotics

Orthotics are special devices designed to support and protect the foot. They provide a number of health benefits, from relieving pain caused by flat feet or sore arches to helping with the misalignment of the legs. With so many potential advantages, it’s no wonder that Orthotics have become an increasingly popular option for treating foot problems.

The most common benefit associated with orthotic use is improved comfort and stability when walking or running. By supporting the arch and cushioning the heel and toes, Orthotics reduce stress on the joints in the foot and allow for smoother movement. Additionally, they can help to improve flexibility in tendons and muscles around the ankle joint which can lead to better balance while standing or moving around.

Not only do they reduce stress on the foot, but they can also help to improve posture, by supporting the arches of the foot and allowing for a more natural standing position. In many cases, Orthotics can also reduce pain in feet that are flat and/or pronated (inward rolling of the foot). You can think of the orthotic as a more advanced version of the arch support.

Types of Orthotics

You can find two common types of Orthotics in the market today: Custom Orthotics and over-the-counter Orthotics

Custom Orthotics are custom-made by a trained professional to fit the exact shape of your foot. They are the most expensive type of orthotic in the market but also the most effective. Over-the-counter Orthotics, on the other hand, are more affordable and are available in most pharmacies and retail stores. They usually come in shoe insoles which can be placed into your shoes or boots.

When you buy a custom orthotic, you can expect it to be of the perfect fit for your feet. It’s designed by taking into account the shape of your foot, the angle of your legs, and the type of shoes you are wearing. Though it is expensive, it provides the most comfort and relief from pain.

When to Use Orthotics

When to Use Orthotics is a question that many people have when considering the use of orthotic devices for their feet. Before deciding if Orthotics are right for you, it is important to understand when they should be used. Orthotics are most commonly prescribed by podiatrists or physical therapists when treating chronic foot pain or deformities due to arthritis or other conditions that affect the bones, muscles, tendons or ligaments in the foot. 

They can also be beneficial in general foot care for athletes who need additional support during high-impact activities such as running or jumping. If you have a foot problem that is causing you pain, discomfort or loss of function in your everyday activities, Orthotics may be recommended to support and stabilize your feet.

How long should you wear Orthotics each day?

Knowing how long you should wear Orthotics each day is important to ensure that they are working correctly, and not causing any further damage or discomfort. The amount of time per day you should use your Orthotics will depend on the level of comfort they provide, as well as the cause of your initial pain or discomfort. 

Generally speaking, it is recommended to start by wearing them for just a few hours at a time until you’ve become used to them. Gradually increase the amount of time until you find an optimal level for yourself – this could be up to 8-10 hours per day if needed.

How often should you change the Orthotics in your shoes?

When it comes to looking after your feet and making sure that they’re healthy and free from injury, Orthotics are an important part of the equation. But how often should you be changing your Orthotics in your shoes?

First and foremost, it’s important to note that the frequency with which you change out your Orthotics will depend on a variety of factors, such as the type of shoes you wear and how active you are. For instance, if you tend to do a lot of running or other activities which involve lots of movement, then it may be necessary to replace them more often than someone who is less physically active. 

Generally speaking though, most experts recommend that people replace their Orthotics every 3 years; however, this is just a general guideline and some individuals may need to replace them even sooner.

Potential Complications

When considering Orthotics, it’s important to know what the potential risks of using this type of footwear are. Orthotics may cause further damage if not used properly or when misaligned with the foot structure. Overuse can also lead to increased stress on the feet, resulting in more strain and pressure on the bones and joints. 

Additionally, some people may experience an allergic reaction to certain types of material used within the orthotic device itself. You must consult a podiatrist before you start wearing Orthotics so that he or she can determine if they are the right choice for your feet. If you feel that your feet require Orthotics, talk to a podiatrist about what type of device may be best suited for your needs.

Leave a reply