Orthotic insoles help thousands of individuals live normal lives.
Orthotic insoles, often called orthotics, are specially designed shoe inserts to correct an irregular or abnormal walking pattern. They achieve this by incrementally altering the angles from where the foot strikes a walking or running surface.
Orthotics benefit people with certain foot conditions or specific types of foot pain, such as flat feet, plantar fasciitis, or bunions. These orthotic insoles Adelaide can also prove useful for people with leg or back pain, as the pain could result from how they walk or run. Moreover, athletes can use orthotics to correct their running patterns, reducing the risk of injuries.
People with flat feet lack the natural arch typically found in the foot structure, causing their feet to roll inward – either walking or running, a condition known as overpronation. It typically results in foot pain and other more complex issues like shin splints or Achilles tendinitis. Orthotic insoles help by providing the necessary arch support, reducing foot pressure and alleviating discomfort.
On the other hand, plantar fasciitis, a common condition affecting the heel and the underside of the foot, can cause sharp, stabbing pain, which is often worse in the morning. This pain originates from the inflammation of the thick band of tissue (plantar fascia) that connects your heel bone to your toes. Orthotics can help by offering extra cushioning to ease the strain on the plantar fascia, thus relieving pain.
Meanwhile, bunions are bony bumps on the joint at the base of the big toe, which causes the same to deviate towards the other toes. It can lead to discomfort or pain, particularly when wearing tight shoes. Orthotics can redistribute pressure across the feet more evenly, alleviating the discomfort caused by bunions and potentially slowing their progression.
Podiatrists, professionals specialising in foot health, often recommend orthotics to their patients when they identify an issue with the foot’s alignment or function that can be corrected or improved. This recommendation is typically based on examining the patient’s feet, ankles, and legs.
A typical visit to the podiatrist begins with a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s medical history. It includes any pre-existing health conditions, current medications, and specific symptoms related to foot discomfort. The podiatrist will then conduct a physical examination, inspecting the feet and legs and assessing the patient’s walking and standing posture.
They may also perform specific diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or gait analysis to better understand the internal structure of the patient’s foot and identify any abnormalities. Based on the results of these assessments, the podiatrist will discuss potential treatment options with the patient. It may include recommending orthotic insoles, suggesting physiotherapy exercises, or in some cases, discussing surgical options.
You can buy orthotic insoles over the counter in shoe stores, drugstores, or online. However, for best results, they should be custom-made by a podiatrist or orthopedist according to the individual’s specific needs and foot structure. Custom orthotics are more expensive than their off-the-shelf counterparts but offer superior comfort, support, and correction.
Orthotic insoles Adelaide are typically advised to be worn regularly to maximise their benefits. The duration and timing of wear will depend on the individual’s specific needs and the advice of their healthcare provider. Individuals may often need to wear orthotics indefinitely to maintain the corrected walking or running pattern and prevent future foot, leg, or back pain.
