What is The Importance of Orthotics for Foot Problems?

The feet are the foundation of a human body. They support the entire weight of body, providing balance, so taking care of them is of utmost importance. Taking this into account, there are several reasons that highlight the importance of orthotics and if you are still uncertain with the idea of having them let's explore how crucial they can be and who should consider using them.

What Makes Orthotics Useful?

Orthotics can be defined as a specialized device used to support and heal the feet. These are available in the form of heel inserts or shoe. Physicians often recommend them for treating leg, back and foot problems. To decode the benefits of this remarkable device there are a few important things about your feet that you should know:

Orthotics

• Your feet are composed of 26 bones, aligned with tendons, muscles and ligaments to balance and support the weight of your body. The system requires proper support so as to function in an effective way.

• Your feet also act as a form of shock absorber that is capable of cushioning over one million Pascal (pressure) during continuous exercise.

• Presence of any kind of foot problem has a negative impact on the back, knee and hips, triggering pain across other parts of the body.

• Choosing the right type of orthotics provides support, reduces pain, relieves pressure, helps in prevention of deformity and most importantly aids in the biomechanical function too.

Now that you are aware of the difference that the finest orthotic device can make, the next step is to determine whether it will be useful for you or not. 

Who Should Consider Using Orthotics?

Orthotics is often a part of a treatment plan designed for addressing various symptoms associated with discomfort and pain in legs and feet. A certified doctor might prescribe them for:

Orthotics

• Correcting various types of foot deformities
• Providing proper support and strength to ankle
• Helping the ankle and foot to function effectively
• Reducing unwanted injuries

Simply put, these devices are much more than specialized heel pads or shoes. They are customizable and are tailored in accordance with the requirements of your feet. As a matter of fact, orthotics are also used for treating several medical conditions including but not limited to:

• Diabetes: An individual who suffers from diabetes might lose sensation of feet, called diabetic neuropathy. When this happens, the device reduces excess pressure and stress which might trigger foot ulcers.
• Bunions: These are bumps that tend to occur at the base of toe and often lead to deformities. Choosing for orthotics having toe box can seamlessly decrease pressure on the toe.
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause a lot of discomfort and lead to poor positioning which can be corrected with the help of the right orthotic device.
• Hammer toes: This condition primarily occurs along with bunions, and they are seen in the second toe leading to ball foot or other associated deformities. With the use of a specialized device, additional support can be provided to the foot that is affected with hammer toes.
• High arches: The arches often tend to increase stress on the muscles and trigger innumerable conditions namely, knee pain, shin splints, plantar fasciitis and so on. By choosing right orthotics can effectively prevent the feet from rolling inward or outward excessively.

There you have it, if you suffer from any one of the aforementioned condition or your physician has recommended you to use orthotic devices then do make it a point to select the best quality made from premium materials for ample comfort and support.