Orthotics are custom-made inserts that are placed in your shoes to correct or help abnormal or irregular walking. Technicalities aside, they bring the ground to your foot/feet, so your body doesn’t have to overcompensate and risk injury.
If you find yourself struggling with any of the following problems, orthotics might be the answer. Reasons for being prescribed orthotics:
- Frequent ankle sprains
- Chronic heel, knee, and/or lower back pain
- One side of the bottom of your shoe wears out faster than the other
- Toes are not straight
- Feet point inward or unreasonably outward when you walk
Instead of going through the pain and loss of time from foot surgery to correct these issues, being fitted with custom orthotics could be the only change you need. If this is your case, you will want to set up an appointment with a licensed podiatrist or chiropractor. Imprints of your feet will be taken to make sure your orthotics are customized specifically for your feet.
You will often notice immediate results and comfort once you are wearing your customized orthotics. Your posture will be straighter, and you will not have to suffer through the pain and injury that you had before you started using shoe inserts.
So if you are experiencing pain in your feet or lower legs, make an appointment with your local podiatrist as soon as possible. Store-bought arch supports may seem like a good idea but they could end up making the problem worse. The podiatrist can give you a proper checkup and assess your situation to give you the best orthotics suitable for you.
