Do I Need Orthotics?
Orthotics are more than shoe support; for some, they’re a means of comfort and mobility. In fact, people who wear orthotics may find it easier to maintain balance. Orthotics can increase stability by relieving pressure, when necessary. Orthotics are multifunctional and aren’t just for athletes. So who needs orthotics? Can you wear them on a daily basis or should you wear them less frequently? Your need for orthotics will depend on your understanding of how they work, why they work, and who they’re truly for.
What’s an Orthotic?
An orthotic is an artificial support or brace for the limb or spine. A splint, support, or brace is used to correct or align movable parts of the body. You may have thought of orthotics as a shoe insert to support the feet and the legs. However, an orthotic is commonly described as a custom- made medical appliance that fits with a person’s footwear. Orthotics come in a variety of sizes and shapes, depending on a person’s medical conditions and the footwear they’re in need of.
The physical requirements all depend on what type of orthotic is the right fit. They can be made from carbon laminates, soft foam, and hard plastic, depending on the patient’s need. They are made to fit in a variety of shoe sizes spanning from smaller children’s shoes to men’s dress shoes.
Who are Orthotics For?
The stereotype is that only seniors and those over age 65 wear orthotics. However, athletes and young adults tend to benefit from orthotics as well. Orthotics are made strictly to fit the person’s individual condition. Orthotics are for those who have biomechanical foot issues. People with medical conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, plantar fasciitis, or even bursitis may experience types of foot pain further complicated by how they walk, stand, or even run. They can benefit from prescription medical devices that are specifically designed to help with your mobility.
Do I Need Orthotics?
To determine if you need orthotics, you should be seen by a specialist who can determine your needs. In any case, if you find yourself falling a lot or losing your balance, orthotic devices can prevent unnecessary falls by helping you keep your balance. Perhaps your feet tend to roll inwards. This may be because you have a pronated foot type or low arch profile. Perhaps you have flatter feet. Overpronating can lead to foot and knee pain in the long run. In these cases, a custom orthotic would benefit you. Ongoing pressure areas or painful calluses or ulcers are also reasons that you would need orthotics. They will not only help correct the foot positions but offload some of that pressure. And lastly, those who have a higher arch in their foot have been known to roll their ankles. While orthotics aren’t always used in this case, they can help with foot positioning to increase ankle stability, thus preventing your ankles from rolling.
So when you’re thinking “custom orthotics near me,” it’s best to contact a qualified medical professional who is licensed to give you the best orthotic treatment.
As you can see, orthotics have come a long way in the medical world and can improve patients’ everyday life. Do you have questions about an orthotic that’s right for you? Or perhaps you want to know more about arch supports or custom-modeled inserts. When you’re looking for “orthotics near me,” Fenton Prosthetics and Orthotics is the place for you. They specialize in ankle foot orthosis, upper extremity orthosis, and other orthotics such as ACL and sports braces to fit a variety of needs.
