How do you know if you need orthotics?

 It is known to almost everyone that years of bad posture or gait disorders can lead to severe discomfort and mobility issues. However, only a few know that orthotics are a surefire way to improve posture problems.

Orthotics have proven beneficial in providing comfort in various foot conditions. Not necessarily only flat footed people can use orthotics. Now custom-made orthotics can be used by anyone who experiences foot pain due to daily life activities and needs extra support under the arch or heel of their feet.

Orthotics are shoe inserts that are uniquely designed to meet the needs of your foot function. Rather than getting over-the-counter orthotics, it is highly recommended to let a podiatrist assess your foot condition and offer the best suited solution. In today’s post, we will discuss the obvious signs that are telling you need moresupport from your shoes.

General discomfort and swelling: Running, walking or simply standing for long hours can lead to painful and swollen feet. A pair of arch support insoles can solve the problem instantly. Orthotics are uniquely moulded to provide the needed support for the contour of your feet. When lifestyle factors are causing discomfort, you must consider the best sore feet treatment with orthotics.

Heel pain: Inflamed plantar fascia is the #1 reason that most adults feel chronic heel pain. Those who spend a lot of time standing are more susceptible to plantar fasciitis. This condition causes severe heel pain and worsens if someone has a high arch or flat feet. With the help of a custom designed orthotic, you can provide the needed cushioning for the heel and additional support for the arch.
In simple words, if you have been searching for a non-toxic, non-invasive, and side-effect free sore heel treatment, then orthotics are the best bet.

Flat foot or high arch: Flat arch or high arch can be problematic for foot functions. The disturbed biomechanics affects the amount of support your feet need and as a result, it leads to painful conditions. Flat feet people particularly feel pain in the heel or the arch areas, whereas those with high arches have to struggle with toe issues, including corns and calluses.
All sorts of foot pain and other abnormalities caused due to lack of arch support can be addressed easily with the help of orthotics.

Balancing issues: It is majorly observed in older adults that collapsed arches can create challenges for stability and balance. If you or your loved ones are often seen struggling with falls and discomfort associated with balancing problems, then it is an obvious sign you needorthotic shoes.

Footwear issues: Ever wondered why one of your shoes looks more worn out than the other? Take a close look at the sole of both your shoes, if one of the soles is rolling inward or outward, it is a sign that sooner or later you might experiencejoint pain or foot dysfunction. To steer clear of such issues, you need corrective shoe inserts.

Injuries and accidents: Sports injuries or any accident that affects your gait must be tackled with orthotic therapy. If you ever notice that a recent injury has changed the way you walk, then you should immediately go to a podiatrist to reduce the risk of further pain or injuries.

Diabetic foot: Studies reveal that when orthotic therapy was part of the diabetic foot care regime, it reduced the likelihood of foot ulcerations. Even distribution of pressure is essential for managing the complications related to your diabetic foot. Therefore, diabetic foot care procedures often include custom orthotics that reduce the likelihood of pain, swelling, corns, calluses and back pain.

Apart from the above listed conditions, if you feel that your posture needs correction or your gait is becomingabnormal, you shouldbook an appointment with a podiatrist for a full assessment and discuss if custom orthotics will benefit you.

Conclusion

Orthotics are beneficial to evenly distribute pressure and support foot function. If you notice any sort of discomfort under your heel or around the arches or toes, it’s a sign that pressure distribution is uneven and must be addressed immediately to reduce the risk of further injuries and complications.

Try out expert recommended orthotics. With a little change, you can improve your posture, enjoy everyday activities without feeling pain and discomfort and live your life to the fullest.

A Foot And Nail Clinic or toe doctor can assess your feet, conduct a gait analysis and decide on the best sore feet treatment and sore heel treatment. This may include a variety of treatments including custom designed orthotics and orthotic friendly shoes. Suncoast Podiatry is the best place to consult with a board-certified Podiatrist on the Sunshine Coast. The specialists can assess your condition and supply you with either off-the-shelf or custom designed orthotics.