Custom orthotics can be a great choice for you to go with when you want to provide your feet with some of the comfort and health they need. There are so many insoles you can find online, but custom orthotics will take it to the next level, providing you with customized support for any type of foot condition you would like to deal with.
These custom orthotics are going to inserts you can add to your shoe, which will provide a good deal of arch support and some stability to the ankles and the feet. There are a few types of orthotics you can choose, depending on the level of support and the issue at hand.
Let’s take a look at the different types of orthotics you can choose for your feet.
Types of Custom Orthotics
The first thing to take a look at is the different types of custom orthotics you can choose. There are a few options based on what you would want to use them for.
Keep in mind each orthotic has its advantages depending on what you plan to use them for or the foot condition you would like to heal. The two main types of custom orthotics that are most common will be functional and accommodative orthotics. The differences between these two include
Functional
The functional orthotic is going often known as the rigid orthotic. These are the types made out of harder materials.
Many times your doctor will prescribe these if you are struggling with some issues of the joints, like arthritis, or pronation problems that need help with alignment in the foot. Additionally, the materials used in these orthotics will be harder and may not have as much cushion as the other type of orthotics.
The point of doing this is to ensure the foot will stay in place. When the foot is not allowed to move around, the foot condition can get healed and feel much better in the process.
Accommodative
Another type of orthotic you can consider is the accommodative orthotic. These will provide more of the soft material and cushion your foot may need.
These can help when there are foot pain issues like plantar fasciitis and bunions. These will be softer and have more padding than the other type of orthotics.
When you touch these orthotics, they will feel softer and easier to move around. The cushion and padding can be added to the areas of the foot that needs it the most. This will give the feet some relief when you walk or run or when you need to spend a good deal of time walking on hard surfaces.
In addition to helping improve your gait and making sure your ankle and foot are aligned, you will find custom orthotics will be useful in preventing related injuries and strains. Custom orthotics are also adequate in relieving pain in the knees, joints, and back.
Which Type of Orthotic Do I Need?
Choosing the right orthotic for your feet will depend on what condition is going on with your feet. Sometimes the foot will need extra support and must be forced to stay in a particular position and not move around.
When that is the issue for you, then it is a good idea for you to go with a functional orthotic. If you have arthritis in the foot or a problem with pronation, then you need to have a device that will keep the foot in the right alignment.
Functional orthotics will be made out of materials rigid enough that you will find the foot forced back into position. This can feel awkward in the beginning, but as you adjust, the foot will get used to it and it can relieve the pain.
On the other hand, there are situations when you will need some more cushioning and help to the feet, rather than support. When you struggle with foot conditions like bunions and plantar fasciitis with a lot of pain in the feet, then accommodative orthotics will be a better choice. They can keep you comfortable and relieve some of the pain.
For those who are uncertain about which types of orthotics you need, it is time to talk to your doctor to see which orthotic will be the right one for you. They can also help you to design an orthotic that will be perfect for your feet and will assist you with the foot problem you are dealing with.
When Do I Need Custom Orthotics?
The next thing to consider is when you will need to get custom orthotics. Many times podiatrists recommend their patients get these types of orthotics when they are dealing with very high arches, or when the patient is struggling with flat feet. Both of these can cause pain and discomfort if they are not handled.
One of the biggest signs you may notice when it is time to consider a pair of custom orthotics is heel pain. Many patients will experience heel pain along with swelling and pain in other parts of their feet. This pain and swelling will start to show up even when you are doing some low-impact activities like walking and standing.
You may be able to figure out whether you are struggling with pronation issues by looking at the shoes you tend to wear the most. If you see the insoles and soles of the shoes tend to be more worn out on one side compared to the other, then this is a big sign the alignment of the foot is off and you are either overpronation or under pronating.
To help you decide whether you will need custom orthotics, a podiatrist will likely ask you to walk on your bare feet. This allows them to look at your gait and stride.
If you are dealing with stiffness, swelling, or pain when you are done with exercise or after a long period of rest, then you need to talk to a doctor to see whether you need custom orthotics.
Choosing a Good Pair of Custom Orthotics
With all the benefits of a custom orthotic, it is no wonder many people are jumping on board and choosing to get a pair for themselves. These are great insoles to use to protect your feet and keep them strong without pain or injuries for years to come.
Take our free analysis to help determine what type of orthotics will be best for you. When you are ready to see whether custom orthotics are the right solution, give us a call or leave your information so we can get you started on your journey to healthier feet.