Help ease foot pain, and avoid having to undergo invasive surgery with custom orthotics! Custom orthotics are shoe inserts designed to treat specific lower limb ailments, including bunions, flat feet, and more. Depending on your unique condition, these inserts can range in size and shape and vary from hard plastic to soft cushioned foam. Read on to learn how orthotics can treat some common foot ailments, and allow you to get you back on your feet, pain-free.
Arch Collapse (Flat Foot)
Arches in the feet help evenly distribute a person's weight and contribute to a healthy gate. However, for patients with fallen arches or flat feet, a custom orthotic can provide arch support where the feet cannot. In addition, arch support provided by a custom orthotic can allow a person to stand for extended periods without aches and pains and slow the progression of foot deformities.
Bunions
Although surgery is the only way to eliminate a bunion once it has formed, custom orthotics can help reduce or eliminate pain caused by bunions. These custom-made shoe inserts are designed to improve balance by dispersing the weight put on your feet. In addition, each orthotic will fit the specifications of your feet to provide optimum comfort and protection and can stop or slow bunion growth by relieving pressure put on the side of the foot caused by genetic foot shape or by tight or ill-fitting shoes.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Often caused by nerve damage related to diabetes, Peripheral Neuropathy can cause a painful burning or stinging sensation and may contribute to temperature sensitivity. Soft orthotic devices are helpful because they can absorb shock, improve balance and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. Custom orthotics can also help prevent wounds and ulceration and minimize callous formation.
Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain or plantar fasciitis is a common foot ailment that can range from a mild irritant to a source of chronic pain. This condition may result from exceedingly low or high arches that affect weight distribution, causing more weight to fall on the heel. Custom orthotics redistribute the pressure on the foot, so your heel takes less stress. Reducing pressure put on your heels helps relieve pain caused by plantar fasciitis and helps decrease the risk for other foot problems like heel spurs.
If you are experiencing foot pain, never delay treatment. If caught in the early stages, many foot or ankle issues can be resolved with conservative measures, including custom orthotics. Contact us or call 717-748-5260 to schedule an appointment with our expert podiatrists.
