Orthotics Can Help Alleviate Your Pain
There are many orthotics out there in the market, all for different foot types with a wide range of prices. The question is, do you need them and can they help your pain?
Orthotics are not only used for people that have flat feet, high arches, or run often. Orthotics are used to help improve your whole body alignment to reduce unwanted pressures in your knees, hips, back and even neck. If you have joint pain and some postural changes, such as scoliosis, increased arch in the lower back (lordosis or sway back) or a “hunch back,” (thoracic kyphosis), wearing orthotics may aid in correcting your posture and reducing your pain.
Knee pain is often relieved from orthotic use. Why? Many people are “bow legged” or “knocked knees.” This change in the angle of the knees can be caused by poor positioning of the ankles and feet. Once corrected, the unwanted pressure in your knees can be reduced and pain may even be eliminated. Many runners who suffer from IT Band Syndrome, or patella femoral pain syndrome, have significant reduction of pain with the use of orthotics.
Additionally, orthotics may provide significant relief of pain from common foot and ankle injuries, such as achilles tendonitis, peroneal tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, bunions and ankle instability. Many of these issues are caused from poor foot and ankle posture and when your foot position is corrected, the symptoms may be relieved.
Many of our patients ask us what the best orthotics are, and if custom made orthotics are better than the over the counter orthotics that can be purchased at their local pharmacy.
We believe the key is being evaluated correctly. Understanding what your specific needs are is important so the correct type of orthotic, whether custom made or over the counter, can be issued for you. It is a good idea to see a specialist before trialing orthotics.
If you think you may be a good candidate for orthotics, call us for a FREE CONSULTATION. We can examine your foot position, body alignment, and point you in the right direction to start feeling better!
