How do I know I need orthotics?
Orthotics are something that not everyone will need, everyone is unique, and some people will go their entire life with no foot or lower limb pain or injuries. However, for those who have flat or high arched feet, plantar fasciitis/heel pain, back, knee and bunion pain, orthotics can help.
The goal of orthotics is to reduce internal and external forces which are acting on specific parts of the foot, to treat injury and reduce foot pain. So, how do you know if you need orthotics?
1. You have been suffering from foot pain or swelling
If you have been experiencing any foot pain or swelling during or after activities, even if you are just standing, it isn’t normal, and you shouldn’t have to deal with unnecessary foot pain. We recommended visiting a podiatrist so they can assess your problem and help determine if you would benefit from orthotics.
2. You’ve had a previous injury
If you recently suffered from an injury to your lower limb (hip, knee, leg, or ankle), it may be affecting the way you walk or run. This may be impacting the pressure you put on your feet, causing other areas of your feet and lower legs to become overworked. Orthotics can help limit and control the excessive movement throughout the feet and offload painful area.
3. Your shoes are wearing unevenly
Another sign that you might need orthotics can be revealed by a quick look at your footwear. A sole that is more worn on the inside is a sign of pronation (inward rolling); while supination (outward rolling) will cause wear to the outer side of your shoe. Or perhaps, one she is more worn than the other, which is a sign of different leg lengths. All of these should be addressed with corrective footwear and/or orthotics.
4. You are experiencing a sharp pain under your feet
Experiencing pain in your heels, particularly when you take your first steps in the morning, can be a sign of plantar fasciitis, as well as a sign that you might need orthotics. Supporting the foot’s arch, the planta fascia acts as a shock absorber, and is more susceptible to inflammation if you are overweight, have tight Achilles, high arches, or flat feet, or spend a lot of time standing or wearing high heels.
Custom-made orthotics can help manage symptoms by providing additional arch support and heel cushioning.
5. You have a flat foot or high arch
If you have flat feet, with little or no arch, you may experience foot pain or overpronation. Orthotics can help to relieve pressure on the arch and reduce rolling. Likewise, orthotics may be prescribed in the case of high arches, which may lead to toe issues, corns, calluses, foot pain and ankle instability.
If you suffer from lower limb issues like aches, pains, sore muscles, or sore feet you may benefit from orthotics. The best way to check is to contact your podiatrist and seek advice, as well as possible treatment options and outcomes. At Sky Podiatry, we offer orthotics Launceston locals trust, give us a call today on (03) 6732 7838 to book a consultation.
Sky Podiatry
Shop 3/220-224 Westbury Rd, Prospect, TAS 7250
(03) 6732 7838
Google My Business Listing: https://g.co/kgs/U3f4ARa
Sky Podiatry
Target Complex, Shop 5/21 Vermont Rd, Mowbray, TAS 7248
(03) 6724 3171
Google My Business Listing: https://g.co/kgs/rAvA2kG