What Orthotics Can Do for Your Feet

You may be surprised to learn that shoe inserts could improve the health of your feet.

Are you dealing with tired, sore feet? Are you an athlete? Do you spend the majority of the day on your feet? There are many situations in which a person can benefit from getting orthotics from our Alexandria, VA, podiatrist Dr. Angelo Pace.

 

So, why choose custom orthotics?

Chances are good that when you’ve visited the local drugstore that you noticed an aisle dedicated to shoe inserts. You may be wondering why you should opt for custom orthotics rather than just grabbing a cheaper over-the-counter pair?

This is a question we get a lot and while we understand that many of our patients want to save money while protecting the health of their feet, these one-size-fits-most approach doesn’t offer nearly the same benefit as custom orthotics, which are tailored to the shape and structure of your feet. In some cases, these over-the-counter orthotics can actually makes some foot problems worse.

 

Who can benefit from custom orthotics?

From athletes to those with flat feet, most people can benefit to some degree from wearing custom orthotics, as these devices provide support and stability for the foot structure to prevent faulty biomechanics which could eventually lead to foot, ankle, leg, and even back pain. Here are some other conditions that could benefit from custom orthotics,

  • Arthritis
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Neuromas
  • Bunions and hammertoes
  • Foot pain
  • Lower back pain
  • Diabetic feet
  • Corns and calluses
  • Neuropathy

 

What are the different kinds of custom orthotics?

These orthopedic devices can be created from a variety of different materials designed to cater to specific conditions and foot structures:

 

Soft orthotics: This type of shoe insert is used to improve balance, relieve pressure on certain areas of the foot, and provide shock absorption. Conditions that respond well to soft orthotics include:

  • Foot deformities (e.g. bunions; hammertoes)
  • Arthritis
  • Diabetic ulcers

 

Semi-rigid orthotics: If you require both additional cushioning and comfort while providing your feet with a little biomechanical control, then semi-rigid orthotics might be right for you. They are particularly beneficial for athletes and children with flat feet.

 

Rigid orthotics: This type of orthotic is designed to restrict or control certain movements to prevent faulty biomechanics. They are great for reducing foot pain, as well as ankle, leg, or back strain.

 

Interested? Give our Alexandria office a call!

Do you have questions about custom orthotics? Do you want to find out if orthotics could benefit your feet? If so, call (703) 360-9292 for Advanced Pace Foot and Ankle Center in Alexandria, VA, to schedule a consultation with us.