Orthotics types and functions
What are orthotics?
Orthotics are devices designed to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with various foot and ankle conditions. These devices range from simple shoe inserts and ankle braces to custom-made orthotics. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your doctor or physiotherapist may suggest starting with over-the-counter orthotic devices. If your condition doesn't improve or worsens, they might recommend custom orthotics. These devices can help prevent or delay the need for more invasive treatments, such as surgery.
Foot Conditions That May Require Orthotics
Your doctor or physiotherapist may suggest orthotics if you are experiencing any of the following foot and ankle issues:
- Bunions (hallux valgus)
- Corns and calluses
- High arches
- Flat feet
- Foot tendonitis
- Forefoot pain (metatarsalgia),
- Hammertoes
- Morton’s neuroma
- Plantar fasciitis
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee),
- Sprained ankle,
- Stiff big toe (hallux rigidus)
If you have any of these symptoms you should consider using orthotics:
Suffering from recent lower leg injuries that alter your walking pattern.
Dealing with foot complications arising from diabetes.
Feeling sharp pain in your heel, particularly in the mornings, which might indicate plantar fasciitis.
Experiencing foot pain and swelling while engaging in regular activities such as walking or standing.
Having flat feet or high arches that lead to discomfort or cause your foot to roll inward excessively (overpronation).
Facing balance issues or frequent falls due to fallen arches.
Noticing uneven patterns of wear on your shoes.
Function of Orthotics
They align and support your feet and ankles, prevent and correct foot deformities and improve the overall function of your feet and ankles.
Types of Orthotics
Orthotics can be over the counter inserts or custom-made devices
OTC orthotics:
Heel Liners ( heel pads) or cups: They cushion your heels and can also increase shoe heel height to reduce pain in the arch, Achilles tendon, or plantar fascia.
Arch Supports: They keep your foot's natural arch and are used mainly for people with flat foot or high arches
Foot Pads: They are cushions placed in your shoes to reduce the friction between your foot and the shoe, like bunion pads, small pads, and metatarsal pads.
Insoles: They are used for support and cushioning. Made of foam, plastic, and gel depending on the purpose of the insoles
Ankle Braces: They provide ankle support for conditions like sprains and tendonitis.
Customized Orthotics
Custom orthotics are specially designed to match the contours of your feet, such as full-shoe inserts or heels inserts. They are much more expensive than ready-made orthotics
Orthotics play a crucial role in supporting a wide range of foot and ankle issues, providing proper alignment, alleviating pain, and enhancing overall functionality.