What exactly are orthotics?
Foot orthotics are custom-made inserts that are placed inside your shoes to provide support, stability, and alignment to your feet. They are designed to correct biomechanical issues, distribute pressure evenly across the foot, and improve overall foot function. Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom-made foot orthotics are specifically tailored to the individual's unique foot structure and needs.
Benefits of Custom-Made Foot Orthotics:
Pain Relief: One of the primary benefits of custom-made foot orthotics is pain relief. Whether you suffer from plantar fasciitis, bunions, heel spurs, or flat feet, foot orthotics can help alleviate pain by providing cushioning and support to the affected areas.
Improved Posture and Alignment: Custom-made foot orthotics can help improve your posture and alignment by correcting any imbalances or abnormalities in your foot structure such as over-pronation or supination. This, in turn, can reduce strain on other parts of the body such as the knees, hips, and lower back.
Enhanced Performance: Athletes and active individuals can benefit greatly from custom-made foot orthotics. By providing better support and stability, foot orthotics can improve athletic performance, reduce the risk of injury, and enhance overall comfort during physical activities.
Prevention of Foot Deformities: Custom-made foot orthotics can help prevent the progression of common foot deformities such as hammertoes, claw toes, and bunions by providing proper alignment and support to the feet.
Customization: Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom-made foot orthotics are tailored to the individual's specific foot shape, size, and needs. This customization ensures a perfect fit and maximum effectiveness in addressing your foot issues.
Assessment for Custom Foot Orthotics:
Before prescribing custom foot orthotics, a thorough assessment is conducted to understand the individual's foot biomechanics and specific needs. This assessment typically includes:
1. Biomechanical Assessment: A biomechanical assessment involves evaluating the structure and function of the feet. This may include assessing the range of motion, joint alignment, muscle strength, and flexibility.
2. Gait Assessment: A gait assessment examines how you walk or run to identify any abnormalities or irregularities in your walking pattern. This may involve observing your gait from different angles, analyzing pressure distribution, and assessing foot strike patterns.
3. Virtual Casting Method: To create custom-made foot orthotics, precise measurements of the feet are required. Instead of traditional casting methods, Archway Orthotics utilizes advanced technology such as virtual casting. This involves using specialized software to capture detailed images of the feet, allowing for accurate measurements and customization of the orthotics.
Common Foot Disorders and Conditions:
1. Plantar Fasciitis: This condition involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. It often causes heel pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of standing or walking.
2. Bunions: A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe. It can be painful and cause the big toe to turn inward towards the other toes.
3. Flat Feet: Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole of the foot to come into contact with the ground. This can lead to pain and discomfort, especially during physical activities or standing on your feet for long periods of time.
4. Heel Spurs: Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel bone. They are often associated with plantar fasciitis and can cause intense pain with each step.
5. Overpronation: Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls inward excessively during walking or running. This can lead to various foot problems, including plantar fasciitis, shin splints, bunions and knee pain.
Conclusion:
Custom-made foot orthotics offer a multitude of benefits for individuals suffering from various foot disorders and conditions. Whether you're looking for pain relief, improved posture, enhanced performance, or prevention of foot deformities, custom-made foot orthotics can provide the support and comfort you need to stay active and pain-free. If you're interested in learning more about how custom-made foot orthotics can benefit you, don't hesitate to contact us at Archway Orthotics. Your feet will thank you!