Foot Health FAQs: Why Would I Need Orthotics?
Welcome to our new content series “Foot Health FAQs”—a place where we address your most common questions about maintaining and improving foot health.
In this edition, we delve into a topic many of you have wondered about: Why would I need orthotics?
If you’re dealing with foot pain, specific foot conditions, or simply curious about the benefits of orthotics, you’re in the right place. Our goal is to provide insights and solutions that make a real difference in your foot health journey. So, let’s explore the world of orthotics, learning about their benefits, functionality, and more.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are specialised devices, such as shoe inserts, foot pads, or custom insoles, designed to support and enhance the function of your feet and lower limbs. Whether you know them as orthotic insoles, orthotic devices, or just orthotics, these tools are customised to meet individual needs and are made from a variety of materials to help alleviate various foot conditions.
What Can Orthotics Help With?
Orthotics are incredibly versatile and can address a wide range of issues related to foot and lower limb health. They’re excellent for reducing foot pain associated with plantar fasciitis, heel pain, and knee pain. Orthotics also help manage symptoms of excessive pronation, diabetic foot complications, and patellofemoral syndrome, enhancing foot posture and overall foot function.
How Do Orthotics Work?
Orthotics improve how you walk by changing the load patterns of your feet and legs. They provide support and improve alignment, which helps distribute pressure evenly across your foot. This not only alleviates pain but also improves stability, helping to prevent future injuries.
How Do You Know If You Need Orthotics?
You might need orthotics if you have persistent foot, heel, or knee pain, particularly if it worsens with activities like standing, walking, or running. Visible foot issues, such as flat feet or high arches, or uneven wear on your shoes are also signs. A consultation with a podiatrist is the best way to determine if orthotics are right for you.
Can Orthotics Be Worn in Any Kind of Shoe?
Orthotics are designed to fit into various footwear types, from daily wear to athletic shoes. However, they may not fit comfortably into every shoe style, especially narrow or high-heeled shoes. It’s important to consider the footwear you most often wear when being fitted for orthotics.
Do Orthotics Wear Out?
Like any item used regularly, orthotics eventually wear out. Their lifespan varies based on the material, your body weight, and usage frequency. Regular check-ups with your podiatrist will help you know when it’s time to replace them to maintain proper support.
How Hurst Podiatry Can Help You
At Hurst Podiatry, we specialise in creating custom orthotics and other personalised treatments to meet your unique needs. Our experts in foot and ankle health are ready to craft orthotics that perfectly match the contours of your feet, offering relief and enhancing your biomechanics. Whether you face specific issues or general discomfort, our dedicated podiatrists are here to improve your foot health and overall quality of life.
Book in to see us today!
