Constantly cramming your feet into uncomfortable shoes, working them without rest and ignoring their cries for help can cause problems down the road. Neglecting your feet can lead to painful foot problems that may make walking more difficult. If you suffer from foot pain, wearing customized foot orthotics may help get you back on your feet.
Foot Orthotics
Many podiatrists use foot orthotics as a starting point for foot pain therapy. Foot orthotics are special devices that you wear inside your shoe. If your podiatrist feels that foot orthotics will be beneficial for you, he will design a customized pair that conforms to the unique needs and measurements of your feet. After creating a plaster mold of your feet, your podiatrist will either make your customized foot orthotics in office or send your prescription to an orthotic laboratory for construction. Orthotics are typically of materials such as plastic, silicon and rubber.
Benefits
Foot problems most commonly occur as a result of wearing uncomfortable shoes, performing strenuous exercises and as a symptom of medical conditions like diabetes. Depending on your exact foot problem, you may experience foot pain, ankle pain, low back pain, corns, calluses, cramps, numbness, blisters or swelling.
Wearing customized foot orthotics can help to relieve foot pain and discomfort and correct an improper gait. This may make it easier and more comfortable for you to walk.
Orthotics In Sports
Athletes tend to place even greater demands on their feet than the average person. Athletes such as runners, skiers, tennis players and basketball players often use orthotics to improve their performance and to help prevent injury.
Orthotics can help athletes by providing greater balance, improving foot control, absorbing shock and increasing support. According to the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society, semi-rigid orthotics typically work better for athletes than rigid or soft orthotics because semi-rigid orthotics provide greater give and are less likely to cause blisters.
Considerations
While custom orthotics can be costly, they are a long-term investment that can significantly improve your quality of life. Over-the-counter shoe inserts offer a less expensive, easily attainable alternative to prescribed orthotics. While saving money may tempt you to settle for standard inserts, this may not be the best option for your specific foot problem. Shoe inserts sold over the counter will not fit your feet with the precision of prescribed orthotics. According to the Medical Board of California, wearing the wrong orthotics can interfere with your natural posture and gait, possibly worsening your existing problems. Be sure to consult your doctor or podiatrist first before wearing over-the-counter shoe inserts.
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