Though most people generally understand the advantages that orthotics offer on the surface, very few have a deeper understanding of the concept. The following article will discuss what orthotics are and their advantages in-depth. Knowing a bit more about these aids will also allow you to consider whether they are ideal to help you cope with leg, foot or lower back pain.
5 Important Things You Need to Know About Orthotics and How They Work
Orthotics: What Are They?
These tools are specifically described by therapists and come as a full shoe or partial heel inserts to help alleviate pain. Most therapists use orthotics as a general means of treating either foot or back problems that may impact a patient’s daily life.
Do You Actually Need Orthotics?
Therapists will often prescribe a comprehensive treatment plan in which orthotics are used to treat gnawing lower back or leg pain. From correcting common foot problems to providing ankle support and reducing chances of injury, orthotics can make a world of difference.
Though orthotic inserts are readily available in many athletic shops, the ones prescribed by therapists are highly custom and created just to address your specific needs. Additionally, therapists usually only recommend orthotics if physical therapy hasn’t been able to offer an adequate solution to your pain problems.
What Are The Benefits Of Orthotics?
Orthotics aren’t in and of themselves a cure for common ailments. Instead, they can help when used in conjunction with other physical therapy exercises as well as supportive footwear.
Professional therapists often use other methods for pain relief as well as orthotics as they generally only have the ability to correct foot problems such as pronation. This means that foot posture problems that cause you to roll your ankles inwards or outwards are best addressed through orthotic inserts. Additionally, inserts can also help by providing extra arch support that many modern shoes are often lacking.
From arch support to correcting foot problems, orthotics also have the potential for addressing support and cushioning in most areas of footwear. As all orthotic inserts prescribed by therapists are wholly customized, it also allows the manufacturer of these inserts to adequately address your specific needs.
One of the biggest advantages of opting for custom orthotics is that you can wear any type of footwear you desire as long as the inserts fit properly. You can also eliminate the need for over-the-counter solutions such as topical gels or painkillers that hardly ever work. Thanks to the help of therapists in combination with the right orthotics, most patients find pain relief without the need for invasive surgery – many also find creams help too.
What Kinds Of Orthotics Are Available?
Orthotics are easily customized by professionals by employing the use of many different materials to help address common ailments. What your therapist prescribes will ultimately depend on the kinds of problems you’re experiencing. Some orthotics are made from rigid plastics or carbon fibre while others offer complete flexibility and additional cushioning to the wearer. It is also possible to only receive a prescription for heel support whereas some patients may require complete foot support as a whole shoe insert, much like those found in athletic shoes themselves.
For patients with a severe foot as well as ankle problems, a different type of insert is available. This type not only offers protection while wearing the shoe, but it extends above the shoe to the ankle to help cup the ankles in place. You can also get orthotics designed for those with diabetes. Take a look at these diabetic shoes for women.
Orthotics Are The Ideal Step In The Right Direction
Physical therapists will use orthotic inserts as a way to help address foot and ankle problems that plague most patients. These inserts are used in combination with other therapy efforts. Though orthotics may seem costly on the surface, they offer a lifelong investment that can help you reclaim your life and alleviate common pain points.
