Health

The visible signs you may need orthotics 

As many as 17% of people suffer from foot pain, and so many don’t realize that non-invasive, non-pharmaceutical and non-surgical options can help. Let’s explore five unmistakably visible signs that you need orthotics.

Five unmistakable signs you need an orthotic

1. Your work involves significant time standing

The plantar fascia is a band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. A healthy plantar fascia provides flexibility, shock-absorption and support, but even it has its limits. Standing more than five hours a day puts significant strain on this ligament, leading to pain, but an orthotic redistributes weight.

2. Your shoes tell a story

Look at the wear pattern on your shoes. You may have no tread on the inside sole and a hole on the inside upper, which means you probably have a low arch and turn your feet in. More wear on the outside means you turn your foot out and probably have a high arch. Either one causes foot pain and possibly hip, knee and back pain down the road. Orthotics can correct this.

4.  You’re taking painkillers for your feet

Foot pain isn’t normal and doesn’t have to be tolerated. Most pain can be corrected by realigning pressure with orthotics.

5. You’re walking differently

The body is connected so if misalignment happens in the back, knees or hips, this may cause you to change how you walk to compensate. This put extra pressure in a certain spot and can lead to pain, inflammation, and even bone and joint damage. custom orthotics id helps support and redistribute weight to avoid additional damage caused by the injury.

When to see an orthotics specialist

If you’re having any of these signs, it’s time to talk to a professional. At Affiliated Therapy Group Practice, we offer a variety of supportive devices to reduce pain and improve foot function. Schedule an appointment today or give us a call and one of our specialists will be happy to discuss your situation.