Foot pain is no laughing matter! And for adults and especially for those with arthritis it is very common. Although “barking dogs” are a common problem, there is no need to suffer. If you experience pain in the arch, heel or other areas of your feet, orthotics may be the solution. Learn how orthotics can help your foot pain.
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics, also known as insoles, are molded pieces of rubber, leather, metal, plastic, or other synthetic material that are inserted into your shoe. They are designed to provide relief from pain and discomfort by reallocating weight and reducing the pressure and stress on your feet. In other words, they work by balancing your foot in a neutral position and cushioning it from too much pounding.
Orthotics For Foot Pain
A wide range of orthotics are available for different foot problems. Orthotics has been shown to provide pain relief for people with arthritis, plantar fasciitis, bursitis, tendinitis, foot, ankle and heel pain. While scientists continue to research types of orthotics, the amount of time they need to be worn each day, and the duration of treatment, most people who wear orthotics long-term report having a decrease in foot pain and improved function.
If your feet hurt, you may want to talk to your doctor, physical therapist, or podiatrist about your pain. She or he will examine your feet (as well as your lower extremities and back) and review your gait to determine which orthotics are best for you. Custom orthotics are available, as well as nonprescription (off-the-shelf) orthotics.
Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are specially-made devices designed to support and comfort your feet. They match the contours of your feet and are designed specifically for the way you move. Prescription orthotics are divided into two categories: Functional orthotics and accommodative orthotics. Functional orthotics are designed to control irregular motion. Accommodative orthotics provide cushioning and support.
Before investing in an expensive pair of custom-made orthotics, ask your doctor or therapist if they can recommend a good-quality nonprescription orthotic. Purchasing an insert that provides cushioning from a drugstore or online, is a good place to start to determine what works for you. Without spending too much money, you can test the usefulness of several different orthotics to see if they help or whether a more durable custom-made device is needed.
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Our blogs are educational in nature and are not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Because your condition is unique to you, it is recommended that you consult with your health care provider before attempting any medical or therapeutic treatments. We are always happy to answer questions about products mentioned in our blogs, however, we cannot provide a diagnosis or medical advice.
That’s good to know that a doctor can look at your feet and how you walk to determine which orthotics will be best for you. My dad’s feet and knees have been hurting really bad lately which makes it hard for him to go on walks, so I’m looking into option to relieve the pain. We’ll have to find a podiatrist near us he can go to so he can get his feet and gait looked at to see if he can get orthotics that can get rid of the knee and foot pain.
It got me when you said that there are custom-made orthotics out there that would perfectly fit the patient’s feet since they are specially made for you. I will share this information with my brother to help his condition. He has been having this pain on his left foot, and I believe that it is due to the accident that he had when he was a teenager. We were not able to get it checked due to lack of money. This will assure him that his problem will be solved once he seeks professional help and gets one created just for him.
It’s good to know that orthotics need to be worn daily in order to obtain long-term decreases in foot pain. I’ve been having some pain in the heel of my foot that makes it uncomfortable to stand for long periods of time. I wouldn’t mind looking into getting some orthotics made to help my foot pain go away and keep it from coming back.
I had no idea that orthotics could help with arthritis and all these other foot issues you mentioned. I have been noticing some stress on the arch of my foot when I walk lately. It might be time to have a professional look at it.
My aunt has really bad arthritis and she has noticed that her feet are beginning to hurt a lot. We never thought of giving her orthotics before. That is great that there is a huge range of orthotics available for different foot problems. If we could find one that helps with her arthritis that would be great! Thank you for the information!
My mom is noticing that her feet bother her after standing or walking for long periods of time. It is good to know that orthotics can help with arthritis, plantar fasciitis, bursitis, and tendinitis. Knowing that a wide range of orthotics are available for different foot problems is comforting.