Foot pain after exercise or at the end of a long work day is not a fact of life, but a sign that something is wrong. Without treatment, foot problems will worsen, affecting mobility. Orthotics are designed to alleviate pain-causing foot problems and correct abnormal gait.
Function
Foot orthotics range from over-the-counter shoe inserts found at every pharmacy to custom made in-shoe devices crafted by podiatrists. Orthotics correct abnormal foot structures, alleviate strain on injuries, and keep feet properly aligned, reducing foot and leg pain.
Types
Podiatrists custom mold two types of orthotics. Functional orthotics are rigid, supportive devices often designed for athletes, which provide shock absorption and prevent over-pronation, while accommodative orthotics are softer, cushioned devices that relieve mild pain associated with callouses or foot ulcers.
Design
Creation of custom orthotics requires the podiatrist to take angular measurements of the feet and lower limbs, analyze the patient's walking or running gait, and create a three-dimensional cast of the feet using plaster, compressible foam or a scanner.
Advantages
Prescription foot orthotics have several advantages over store bought orthotics. They are custom made to fit an individual's feet, so they have greater potential to relieve pain and correct abnormal foot alignment and structure.
Disadvantages
Having prescription orthotics custom molded is expensive, and can be a deterrent for many people. To keep cost in perspective, podiatrists recommend comparing the purchase of custom orthotics to buying a new pair of eye glasses--expensive yet necessary.
