How Custom Orthotics Can Benefit You

Custom orthotics aren’t your average over-the-counter inserts. By design, they precisely control how your foot strikes the ground with every step you take. When they’re prescribed correctly, custom orthotics work to correct your alignment while reducing pain and discomfort. They’re not simply for cushioning your feet. Here’s how custom orthotics can benefit you. 

Why Custom Orthotics? 

Base of the Body 

The feet are the foundation your entire body is built upon. From the ground up, every step you take creates force that is transferred through your ankles, knees, hips and spine. When your base isn’t stable, those small errors can compound into bigger problems over time. Custom orthotics work to balance out your foundation by correcting how your feet land with every step you take.

Kinetic Chain Alignment 

The body moves as one kinetic chain. This means that movement at one joint is inherently linked to the joints above and below it. When one joint is misaligned, the rest of the chain takes on that stress. Knees and lower back pain are two of the biggest issues that occur when your foot mechanics are off. By guiding your foot into a more neutral position, custom orthotics work to evenly distribute force throughout your body and minimize excess stress. They can even help to correct repetitive misalignment from Overpronation.

Arch Support 

Did you know that your arch helps to absorb shock with every step you take? When your arch flattens or becomes too rigid, you lose that natural ability. Custom orthotics help maintain the natural curve of your arch when your feet are under pressure. They’re custom-made to fit the unique contours of your feet, meaning you’ll experience even support from the moment you take your first step in the morning until you go to bed at night.

Relief from Pain 

Millions of people suffer from chronic foot pain. The pain could be the result of an injury or something as simple as wearing shoes that don’t fit properly. Whatever the cause, custom orthotics help alleviate that pain by realigning your bones and minimizing stress on soft tissues. Foot pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendinitis and Shin Splints can all show improvements when wearing custom orthotics. They don’t just mask the pain. They treat the root cause. 

Plantar Fasciitis 

Your risk of Plantar Fasciitis is increased when your heel becomes unstable or your foot overpronates. Custom orthotics help support the heel and reduce micro-tears along the arch of your foot by controlling excess movement. Wearers have experienced shorter recovery times and less pain in the morning after using custom orthotics alongside proper shoes and stretching.

Back Pain 

If your feet roll inward or pound excessively with every step, your pelvis is likely tilted forward or backward. Your spine reacts to this improper positioning by compensating with curvature in your lower back. Custom orthotics help correct your posture by stabilizing your feet and reducing the amount of excess motion.

Running and Athleticism 

Ever feel like your feet just don’t feel right when you’re out running? Perhaps you get tired faster than you think you should or you lack stability when you make quick direction changes. Custom orthotics can help you run more smoothly and efficiently by properly aligning your feet with each stride.

Injury Prevention 

Studies have shown that many sports injuries are the result of stress built up over time. Custom orthotics can help by reducing impact forces and limiting excess movement that may lead to irritation or injury.

Reduce Fatigue 

Even if you’re not exercising, simply walking or standing for long periods of time can wear you down if your muscles are expending excess energy just to stay aligned. Custom orthotics help you move more efficiently, resulting in less fatigue in your feet, legs and lower back by the end of the day.

Longevity 

A quality pair of custom orthotics can last you years. Unlike basic insert liners that wear down with time, your custom orthotics are built to maintain their shape and support. They also help keep your joints healthy by limiting excess movement that can cause wear-and-tear as you age.

Do Custom Orthotics Really Work? 

Conclusion 

Take-home message: Invest in a pair of custom orthotics and notice the difference for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are orthotics? How are they different from inserts?

A: Orthotics are medical-grade devices made after taking either a mold or digital scan of your feet. Unlike inserts, they help align and support your feet in very specific ways.

Will custom orthotics help my foot pain?

A: Custom orthotics have been shown to help many people find relief from pain in their feet, knees, and lower legs.

Do I need to have a condition to get custom orthotics?

A: Not at all! Our office makes custom orthotics for people that want to feel better when they’re active and decrease their risk of injury.

How long will it take me to get used to my custom orthotics?

A: Every person is different, but most people get used to their custom orthotics in 1-2 weeks. We recommend wearing them for a few hours each day until you’re comfortable wearing them all the time.

How long do custom orthotics last?

A: With proper care, custom orthotics can last you between 3-5 years. Be sure to check in with your office so we can ensure they’re still providing you with the proper support.