How Custom Orthotics Help Improve Foot Health

Our feet are the foundation of our body, and any problems with them can cause a chain reaction of pain and discomfort in other parts of the body. One solution for improving foot health is custom orthotics.

Custom orthotics are specially designed insoles tailored to an individual’s foot shape and biomechanics. They are different from over-the-counter shoe inserts, which are mass-produced and may provide a different level of support.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are shoe inserts that are made specifically for your feet. They are designed to correct or support any foot abnormalities or imbalances that you may have. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, custom orthotics are made from a cast or mold of your feet, ensuring they fit perfectly and provide the right support.

There are two main types of custom orthotics: functional and accommodative. Functional orthotics are designed to correct foot abnormalities and improve foot function. They are typically made from a firm material and support the arches and heels. On the other hand, accommodative orthotics are designed to provide cushioning and support for sensitive or painful areas of the feet. They are typically made from a softer material and are used to relieve pressure and reduce pain.

Benefits of Custom Orthotics for Foot Health

Alleviate Foot Pain
One of the primary benefits of custom orthotics is their ability to alleviate foot pain. Various factors, such as flat feet, high arches, or plantar fasciitis, can cause foot pain. Custom orthotics are designed to support the foot in a way that reduces pressure and redistributes weight, which can alleviate pain caused by these conditions.

Custom orthotics can also be helpful for people who spend a lot of time on their feet, such as athletes or healthcare professionals. By providing extra cushioning and support, custom orthotics can help prevent foot fatigue and reduce the risk of injuries.

Improve Biomechanics
Biomechanics refers to how the body moves, and custom orthotics can help improve biomechanics by correcting issues with foot alignment. For example, if you have flat feet, your feet may roll inward when you walk, which can cause pain and discomfort. Custom orthotics can be designed to support the arch of the foot, which can help correct this issue and improve your overall foot alignment.

Custom orthotics can also be helpful for people with conditions like arthritis or diabetes, which can affect foot function. By improving foot alignment and reducing pressure points, custom orthotics can help reduce the risk of developing foot ulcers and other complications associated with these conditions.

Improved Athletic Performance
Athletes put a lot of strain on their feet, increasing the risk of injuries and decreasing performance. Custom orthotics can be explicitly designed for athletic activities, providing extra cushioning and support where needed most. For example, a runner may benefit from custom orthotics that provide additional shock absorption in the heel area.

Custom orthotics can also help improve balance, stability, and foot health, which can be particularly beneficial for athletes who participate in sports requiring quick direction or jumping changes.

Reduced Risk of Foot Injuries
Custom orthotics can also help reduce the risk of foot injuries. By providing extra support and cushioning, custom orthotics can help reduce the impact on the feet and lower limbs, which can help prevent injuries like stress fractures, shin splints, and plantar fasciitis.

Custom orthotics can also be helpful for people with a history of ankle sprains or other foot injuries. Custom orthotics can help reduce re-injury risk and promote healing by providing extra support and stability.

Improved Comfort
One of the primary benefits of custom orthotics is improved comfort. They can help relieve pain and discomfort by providing cushioning and foot support. They can also help distribute pressure evenly across the foot, reducing the risk of blisters, calluses, and other foot problems.

Improve Overall Body Health
Our feet are connected to the rest of our body, and problems with our feet can affect other body parts. For example, if you have foot pain, you may compensate by walking differently, which can cause pain and discomfort in your knees, hips, and back. By improving foot health and alignment, custom orthotics can help improve overall body health.

Custom orthotics can also be helpful for people with conditions like osteoarthritis, which can affect multiple joints in the body. Custom orthotics can help reduce pain and discomfort in other body parts by reducing pressure on the feet and lower limbs.

Customized Fit
Custom orthotics are designed for each individual’s unique foot shape and structure, ensuring a customized fit with optimal support and comfort.

Long-Lasting
Custom orthotics are designed to last several years with proper care, making them a cost-effective solution for foot and lower leg pain and discomfort. While over-the-counter shoe inserts may need to be replaced frequently, custom orthotics are created to withstand the wear and tear of everyday use, providing reliable support and cushioning for an extended period.

Versatile Use
Custom orthotics can be used for various activities and purposes, including everyday wear, athletic activities, and work-related tasks. They can be designed to fit into a wide range of footwear, from dress shoes to athletic sneakers, making them a versatile and practical solution for a range of foot care needs.

Getting Fitted for Custom Orthotics to Improve Foot Health

If you could benefit from custom orthotics, the first step is to schedule an appointment with our certified chiropodist or foot specialist. We will evaluate your feet and biomechanics and determine if custom orthotics suit you. If so, we’ll take a cast or mold of your feet and send it to a lab, where your custom orthotics will be made.

It’s important to note that custom orthotics can be expensive, but they are often covered by insurance. Check with your insurance provider to see if custom orthotics are covered under your plan.

Custom orthotics can be a valuable tool for improving foot health and reducing pain and discomfort. If you’re someone who experiences foot pain or discomfort regularly, consider scheduling an appointment with a certified chiropodist or foot specialist to see if custom orthotics are right for you. With the right custom orthotics, you can improve foot function, reduce pain, and enhance your overall quality of life.

Orthotic Assessments by Care-Med Certified Chiropodist & Foot Specialist

At Care-Med, our certified chiropodist and foot specialist can help you determine if custom orthotics are right for you. We offer comprehensive orthotic assessments to evaluate your feet and biomechanics and choose the best course of treatment. Our custom orthotics use the latest technology and high-quality materials to ensure the best fit and function.

If you’re interested in improving your foot health and reducing pain and discomfort, contact Care-Med today to schedule an appointment for an orthotic assessment. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you achieve optimal foot health and overall wellness.