Orthotics are medical devices worn inside shoes that are intended to correct abnormal, or irregular walking patterns which have contributed to increased stress through the feet and legs. Orthotics are not just “arch supports”. An orthotic is designed to guide the mechanics of the foot to help muscles and tendons perform more efficiently, making standing, walking and running more comfortable.
If you’re suffering from pain or injury, the orthotics may help with your recovery. Orthotics are specifically designed to correct any biomechanical abnormalities that are contributing to ongoing pain and re-distribute weight away from the painful area. Since foot posture and function vary significantly from person to person, there is no ‘one type fits all’. Think of orthotics like prescription glasses. You’ll need a comprehensive biomechanical assessment done by a podiatrist to determine the type of orthotic or modifications required to get the best results.
There are 2 different types of Orthotics:
Prefab Orthotics: A huge range of pre-made orthotics with specific features such as cushioning, shock absorption, arch support and many more. Prefab orthotics are modified in the clinic to achieve the therapeutic effect identified in the biomechanical assessment. These are great for acute conditions where orthotics will be used for a short timeframe to facilitate healing and repair.
Custom Orthotics: Are designed by taking a mould/impression of the foot. This gives precise location of bones, joints and muscles which ensures the orthotic achieves a specific function.
Custom orthotics are generally for chronic or long-term problems and can last up to 5-10 years.
Each orthotic whether it be prefab, or custom are designed and modified for your foot, to achieve necessary therapeutic effect.
Below are just some of the ways orthotics can be used to help or assist with:
- Facilitating healing of damaged muscles and tissues – e.g. Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis
- Redistributing pressure or offloading painful areas of the foot – e.g. corns, callus, ulcers
- Reducing pain from chronic conditions – e.g. arthritis
- Supporting foot and leg abnormalities – e.g. leg length discrepancy
- Improving walking and running techniques/gait.
- And much more!
Heel pain is a great example. The most common causes of heel pain are excessive strain on ligaments/tendons or poor shock absorption. Orthotics can help to align the foot to redistribute pressure away from the heel, while providing support to the foot and attenuate shock more efficiently. This will help to alleviate pain and make walking or running more efficient.
If you have an issue with your feet or legs or would like to know how orthotics can help you, book an appointment with one of our experts today!
