If you have been experiencing pain or weakness while walking, consider the use of orthotics for foot support. These devices are valuable for people with disorders such as flat feet. Also, if you have sustained an injury in your foot, the support from your feet might be inadequate, causing discomfort while walking. Additionally, orthotic devices are suitable for correcting unnatural gait and irregular walks. Regardless of your concern, here are essential tips to consider before acquiring orthotics.
Understand the Options
Different types of orthotics are available for correcting feet problems and improving quality of life. The right choice for a patient will depend on their specific condition. Rigid orthotics are designed to improve motion for people struggling with aches and pains due to joint problems. Their hardness stabilises the joints and prevents uncontrolled movements. Often, these devices are used with walking shoes by people without major feet issues to minimise stress on limb joints.
If you have an underlying condition or deformity, hard orthotics made using plastics or carbon fibre might increase the physical stress in your body. Soft materials are perfect for cushioning the feet and the joints against impact while walking. Moreover, they will reduce pressure on parts of the feet that become sore due to an unusual structure. Choose soft orthotics for deformities or diseases like arthritis. Keep in mind that semi-rigid devices are also designed and fabricated. These products have an intermediate rigidity between the soft and rigid alternatives.
Avoid Generic Products
When planning to acquire orthotics, avoid stock products from general shops. The standard devices on the market are not designed for treating medical problems. Their structure is intended to make shoes a little more comfortable. If you have a foot problem and use these, you might sustain strain injuries. Therefore, consult a qualified podiatrist for an examination. The foot specialist will evaluate the foot condition and look at your medical history before recommending a treatment plan. If you require orthotics, opt for custom products designed to target your specific medical issue.
Inquire About Support
The long-term costs of purchasing orthotic devices are high. Therefore, if your podiatrist recommends these products for managing your condition, inquire about the financial support options. Keep in mind that the National Disability Insurance Scheme or NDIS often covers or subsidises the cost of necessary podiatric devices for participants. Therefore, check if you qualify for the scheme and register to avoid high expenses. Also, choose an NDIS podiatry provider for treatment and provision of the orthotics for your convenience.
From a morning ache in the heel to persistent forefoot pain when walking, foot pain comes in many different forms. Most people find it difficult to work out what is causing the pain and decide what to do to resolve it.
The posts on this website can help you understand how the foot functions and what can go wrong with it to cause pain. In addition to suggesting stretches and footwear changes that might help, they can also let you know when you need to see a podiatrist for specialist help.
Don't put up with foot pain. Read our posts and then reach out to a podiatrist to get the relief you need.