Imagine your feet are your foundations, just like a building’s foundations; if the base isn’t right, the entire structure feels the strain. Orthotics (also known as orthopedic insoles) provide support to keep your foundation strong and sturdy.
Orthotics are specially designed inserts for your shoes that help correct foot posture and distribute pressure evenly across your feet, providing crucial foot pain relief.
Wearing orthotics is a proactive step towards prevention of problems such as:
- Bunions: those painful bumps at the base of your big toes
- Hammertoes: toes that bend downward unnaturally
- Neuroma: a nerve condition that causes tingling or pain between the toes
- Plantar Fasciitis: a common heel pain stemming from tissue inflammation
Different Types of Orthotics
Off-The-Shelf Orthotics
Off-the-shelf (OTS) orthotics can suit individuals experiencing mild discomfort or those wanting to simply enhance the comfort level of their shoes without specific medical requirements.
These are readily available at Cutting Edge Podiatry or via retailers without the need for a prescription. They are made from materials such as gel, plastic, or foam – each offering different levels of cushioning and support.
Benefits:
- Affordable
- No waiting time
- Immediate relief for generic foot problems like heel pain
Limitations:
- Lack of customisation may not suit everyone’s foot structure
- Shorter lifespan
Professional Custom Orthotics
Individuals with severe or specific foot conditions like flat feet, arthritis, plantar fasciitis, or diabetes-related foot issues can greatly benefit from custom orthotics.
As the name suggests, custom orthotics are professionally designed based on thorough biomechanical examinations and 3D foot impressions. They cater precisely to your unique foot structure and specific condition.
Benefits:
- Highly personalised to your needs
- Durable material, ensuring a longer lifespan
- Can effectively address complex foot conditions
Limitations:
- More expensive
Choosing the Right Orthotics for Your Feet
The right choice of orthotics boils down to understanding your foot condition and awareness of what each type of orthotic offers.
We recommend advice is sought from a podiatrist – they have the expertise to diagnose your foot condition accurately and recommend an orthotic that best suits your needs.
Finding The Best Fitting Off-The-Shelf Orthotics
Off-The-Shelf orthotics come in different sizes and are designed to address various foot conditions. If you’re seeking Achilles tendinitis or arch pain relief, look for orthotics that offer robust arch support.
Try them with different types of shoes. An orthotic that feels comfortable in one shoe might not feel the same in another due to differences in shoe design and size.
OTS orthotics also serve as an inexpensive trial run before you decide whether to invest in custom orthotics. You can assess whether an orthotic will bring about significant pain relief or discomfort improvement.
Custom Orthotics: A Thorough Examination Matters
A thorough examination is conducted, including an assessment of your health history and physical evaluation. Foot conditions like arthritis-induced deformities or flat feet correction require detailed understanding and precise measurements for effective treatment.
The use of technologies ensures that custom orthotics provide an optimal fit. These technologies capture the unique contours of your feet, so that your orthotics will align perfectly with your foot structure and provide maximum comfort.
Benefits of Orthotics
When it comes to the well-being of your feet, orthotics are more than just inserts; they’re key players in maintaining proper foot/ankle alignment and supporting overall health improvement. Let’s delve into the orthotics benefits that might just make you consider giving your feet this extra level of care.
Foot and Ankle Alignment
By correcting foot and ankle positioning, orthopedic insoles can:
- Reduce the Strain on Muscles and Ligaments: Orthotics help distribute pressure more evenly across your foot, taking the load off overstressed muscles and ligaments.
- Prevent Excessive Inward or Outward Rolling of the Foot: By providing arch support, orthotics keep the foot aligned and prevent these motions, which can lead to injuries.
- Stabilise Your Gait: Orthotics enhance stability by improving the contact between your feet and the ground.
Overall Health Benefits
Beyond the immediate relief to your feet and ankles, orthotics also play a role in maintaining broader health benefits:
- Alleviate Knee, Hip, and Lower Back Pain
- Minimise Risk of Secondary Issues
Orthotics: A Solution for Common Foot Problems
Orthotics have been shown to be effective in offering relief for various foot conditions including plantar fasciitis, bursitis, diabetes, and arthritis.
To ensure you get the most out of your orthopedic insoles, it’s best to consult with a podiatrist who can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend suitable options based on your specific needs.
At Cutting Edge Podiatry in Cambridge, we’re available to help you with personalised advice and professional care for all your foot health needs. We can custom-fit orthotics to suit your needs and we also have a range of off-the-shelf orthortics to choose from.