Aching feet are a common problem that we see at our clinic, which can impact daily activities and overall quality of life. There are a number of exacerbating circumstances that can cause feet to ache, such as prolonged standing, intense physical activity, or underlying medical conditions. Fortunately, custom orthotic therapy offers an effective solution to alleviate discomfort and restore proper foot function.
Understanding Foot Pain
Your feet should not ache! Foot pain can arise from various sources, including structural imbalances, overuse, injury, and medical conditions such as arthritis. Common symptoms include soreness, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty walking. Left untreated, chronic foot pain can further develop into additional complications such as knee, hip, and lower back pain.
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The Role of Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that provide support and alignment tailored to an individual’s foot structure. Unlike over the counter orthotic devices, which only really offer cushioning and minor non tailored support, custom orthotics are crafted based on a detailed assessment of the patient’s foot function, gait, shape and specific needs.
These devices can help correct biomechanical issues and redistribute pressure. This allows the foot to function as it should – reducing the strain on the muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints ultimately providing much-needed relief for aching feet, leaving you pain free!
Benefits of Custom Orthotics
- Pain Relief – Custom orthotics help alleviate pain caused by conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, and metatarsalgia by providing targeted support and cushioning.
- Improved Alignment – Proper foot alignment reduces stress on joints and muscles, improving posture and balance while decreasing the risk of further complications.
- Enhanced Shock Absorption – Custom orthotics absorb impact and reduce pressure on sensitive areas of the foot, making activities like walking and running more comfortable.
- Injury Prevention – By correcting biomechanical inefficiencies, custom orthotics can help prevent injuries such as shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, and stress fractures.
- Increased Mobility – For individuals with chronic foot pain or conditions like arthritis, orthotics can enhance mobility and overall comfort, enabling them to stay active without discomfort.
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How Custom Orthotics Are Made
The process of creating custom orthotics typically involves an initial assessment of gait and foot function. During the evaluation, we will examine the patient’s foot structure and mechanics, walking pattern, and pressure distribution. 3D foot scanning will then be used to capture an accurate image of the foot.
Once the data is collected, it is then sent to the lab where the orthotics are fabricated using high-quality materials suited to the patient’s needs. These may include rigid orthotics for structural correction, semi-rigid orthotics for balance and support, or soft orthotics for cushioning and pressure relief.
When to Consider Custom Orthotics
Individuals experiencing foot pain, knee pain, back pain, poor foot posture and mechanics, or recurrent lower limb injuries should consider custom orthotics. Additionally, people with flat feet, high arches, or medical conditions affecting foot health can significantly benefit from tailored orthotic solutions.
Conclusion
Aching feet should not be ignored, as they can develop into more serious health problems over time. Custom orthotic therapy provides a personalized, effective solution to relieve foot pain, enhance comfort, and improve overall mobility. By investing in custom orthotics, individuals can take proactive steps toward healthier, pain-free feet and a better quality of life.
