Treating Foot Pain With Custom Made Orthotics

Do you walk, run, stand a lot, or otherwise use your feet often? Many people do. Unfortunately, for some, simply using their feet can turn into an exercise in pain and discomfort.

That pain and discomfort can cause you to stop doing the things you enjoy. It can cause you to not want to do the things you have to do. Custom made orthotics can help treat foot pain, but you should know more about it.

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics represents a medical specialty. It concerns itself with creating orthotic devices, which help align parts of your body. In this case, a foot orthotic will look something like a shoe insert. However, it’s important that you understand there’s a major difference between a professionally designed custom made orthotics, and an off-the-shelf commercial shoe insert.

Difference between a Shoe Insert and Custom Orthotics

Orthotic devices are created specifically for you, and specifically for your unique foot pain issue. By contrast, a shoe insert is designed to fit a shoe size. They don’t allow for corrections, and they are not indended for any specific issue. It’s best to avoid shoe inserts without speaking to an orthotist or podiatrist first. It’s actually possible to do yourself further damage if you choose the wrong over-the-counter insert.

How Do Custom Made Orthotics Work

Your custom orthotic device will do several things at once.

• It will change the angle of your foot falls
• It will cushion your foot against shock
• It will improve your balance while you move
• It will take pressure off sensitive areas of your foot
• It can improve your posture

By doing these things, the device will alleviate pain in your foot. It will also mitigate the conditions that act to cause that pain to begin with.

At a basic level, your orthotic device adjusts how you step. That adjustment delivers all the benefits. Those benefits are not just for your feet either. An orthotic device will also help if you have knee and back pain as well. That’s because an improper alignment is the root cause of many problems along the spine and lower body.

How Much Customisation in a Custom Orthotic Device?

The level of customisation in orthotic devices is simply incredible. As pointed out, this is the main and most profound difference between a foot orthotic device and a shoe insert.

Customised orthotic devices take the following into account:

• Your weight
• Your balance
• Your height
• Your condition
• Your usual activities
• Your shoe size
• The amount of relief you need
• The specific shape of your foot

These things will all go towards making you the perfect orthotic device that’s specifically tailored for you. In addition, if changes need to happen, then the device can go through further modifications. You may not need a new orthotic device at all.

Are Orthotics a Cure to Foot Pain?

Orthotics are the cure for some foot problems. There are many issues that stem from problems that orthotics cannot cure, such as diabetes. However, even in those cases, orthotics can provide long-term relief and comfort.

Types of pain orthotics can help with:

• Plantar fasciitis, and other heel pain
• Pain focused on the arch of your foot
• Pain from athletics, activity, and exercise
• Pain from diabetes and neuropathy
• Pain caused by weakened bones
• Pain from metatarsalgia
• Lower back pain
• Pain from sensitive foot issues such as bunions

The list goes on and on. Basically, if you suffer from foot pain of any sort, there’s a good chance that an orthotic device can help you. If you suffer from foot pain and need relief, call Chiro-Med to set up an appointment.