What are orthotics?
Podiatrists prescribe and construct foot orthotics. These are specially designed devices that are worn inside the shoe to control abnormal foot function and/or accommodate painful areas of the foot. Properly designed foot orthotics may compensate for impaired foot function, by controlling abnormal motion across the joints of the foot. This may result in result in dramatic improvement in foot symptoms. Functional foot orthotics are usually made from rigid materials, especially plastics and carbon-fiber composites. They are constructed upon a plaster impression of the feet, and modified based on the podiatrist’s evaluation of your problem. They are normally quite comfortable, and do not feel hard or uncomfortable in the shoe. Rigid orthotics normally last for years, additions such as top covers and extensions may require periodic replacement. Some patients, for example the very elderly, may not tolerate rigid functional orthotics.
“Orthotic” is somewhat of a generic term for a device that is placed in a shoe. The term orthotic is sometimes mistakenly applied to arch supports or cushions. Active Feet Orthotics are custom made inserts that fit into your shoes, gently realigning your foot position as you walk and stand. This results in a much more “ideal” walk and relief of common complaints of pain in feet, legs, knees and the back.
Orthotics (orthoses) are specially-prepared foot supports. These anatomically molded devices, worn under the heel and arch of your foot to correct skeletal anomalies, do more than “support” your feet. They actually realign them to a natural, “neutral” position to relieve foot, let and back stress, increase endurance, restore critical balance, improve sports performance, alleviate foot fatigue and prevent a wide range of foot problems. How do I know if I need orthotics? You definitely need orthotics: • If you participate in any activity that places stress on your feet. • If you have an obvious imbalance that causes such symptoms as flat or high arched feet. • If you have external malalignments such as bow knees, knock knees, pigeon-toes, or “duck feet.” • If you’ve already developed chronic foot problems, ranging from corns and calluses to arch pain and heel spur pain. • If your job requires being on your feet for extended periods of time. How can orthotics improve sports performance? A
