Foot Health: How Orthotics Can Help with Pain and Foot Issues
Many are fairly unfamiliar with the medical practice of orthotics or have a very limited idea of what custom orthotics can really do for foot pain and overall feet health. They will go through pain, stiffness, lack of mobility and more, all the time unaware that a custom orthotic insole can reduce or eliminate the foot issue completely. Not every issue can be fixed with a custom orthotic insole, but a great deal can and begs for those with foot issues to meet with an orthotics medical professional to see if they can get relief from the pain, stiffness and lack of mobility.
What Exactly is Orthotics?
Orthotics is the use of custom foot supports that give strength where it is lacking, offer relief where a part of the foot is injured (permanent or otherwise) and reduces the likelihood of increased foot issues down the road. Orthotics correct a problem such as weak arches or turned ankles to help your feet and body as a whole work correctly and function properly.
What is the Difference Between Custom Orthotic Insoles and Generic Store Bought Insoles?
A custom orthotic insole is much better than a generic insole because they are created with your foot specifically in mind. They are designed and molded to your foot so that they offer perfect support where it is needed. Regular store bought orthotic insoles are created with a widespread foot design so that they somewhat meet the needs of the many, rather than your needs specifically. They may feel comfortable and supportive in the beginning, but they will quickly lose their benefit because they are not made with as high of a quality as custom orthotic insoles or with your needs specifically in mind. They are also generally made of soft, extremely flexible materials, making them insufficient in providing lasting support for the foot when it is needed. Generic insoles generally last for just a few months while custom orthotic insoles can last up to five years or more if properly cared for.
What Can Custom Orthotic Insoles Treat?
Custom orthotic insoles can be used to treat a variety of foot issues such as heel pain, arch pain, hammertoes, bunions, knee pain, lower back/neck pain and more. Many times pain, stiffness or mobility problems can originate in another part of the body such as the feet, so providing needed support can help to fix problems all over the body from the back to the knees to the neck and shoulders.
