Have Pain? Custom-Fit Orthotics May Be Able To Help.
What are orthotics?
Custom-fit orthotics are shoe inserts prescribed by physicians that help relieve a variety of pains and aches. In the office, a doctor or nurse wraps a caste mold around a person’s feet in a way that gives a proper outlining and size of the patient’s heel, arch, and toes. Because each foot is unique, this mold will create an orthotic that perfectly fits the identity of one’s foot. The goal is to give support to each area and also absorb shock, relieve pressure, and improve balance.
Why do people need orthotics?
Often times under-appreciated, our feet happen to be one of the most important parts of the body. The foot is our foundation used daily whenever we walk, run, stand, and dance. Each person, although, uses their feet differently in activities and even in the way they walk. Orthotics can help make certain adjustments for comfort by aligning the foot and ankle or correct foot anomalies.
How do I know if I should be wearing orthotics?
A licensed podiatrist or orthopedic physician is the best source for determining who should wear orthotics. They base their decisions on numerous characteristics and symptoms. In general though, people who suffer from the following my be in need of orthotics:
Flat feet
High-arched feet
Bunions
Hammer toes
Chronic foot pain after exercise
Feet pointing too far inward or outward when walking
Chronic heel, knee, and/or lower back pain
Tendency to get blisters
Plantar faciitis
Abnormal lower limb length
Why should I pay for orthotics?
Orthotics can often times be pricey without 100% certainty of curing an ailment. However, their effectiveness usually overshadows the prices. Orthotics have been proven to relieve chronic pain and abnormalities in day to day life, allowing you to be more active and more comfortable. Doctors prescribe them as a conservative method to avoid expensive surgeries with long recovery times. Additionally, professional orthotics last years, unlike many unfitted, over-the-counter products.
Dr. Stevens at Indy South Foot and Ankle prescribes orthotics almost daily for his patients. If you suffer from any of these conditions, he strives to answer any questions or concerns that you may have about your feet.
