subject: When Your Feet Hurt, Orthotics Offer Pain Relief [print this page] When your feet hurt, your podiatrist in San Mateo can offer you an array of solutions to put an end to that ache. Today, with advancements in podiatry, orthotics are now more comfortable than ever before. Whether you are a runner or an athlete looking for enhanced protection while performing sports and other daily activities, custom-made orthotics from your podiatrist in San Mateo may be an appropriate solution to providing comfort for your feet.
What are Custom-Made Orthotics?
Custom-made orthotics are medical devices that support and gently reposition the heel, arch, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones in the feet. These enable the structures to work together as nature intended; ensuring each step you take is pain-free. Unlike shoe inserts that are bought over-the-counter, custom-made orthotics are built from molds of your feet to meet your unique needs. Additionally, they can be designed to properly fit in dress shoes, athletic shoes, boots, and skates. Custom-made orthotics can relieve an array of different types of foot pain including:
*Heel pain and plantar fasciitis.
*Arch pain.
*Pain caused by running, walking, and other athletics.
*Pain related to diabetes.
*Pain experienced by senior citizens.
Orthotics through the help of the computerized gait analysis can make corrections that will save you from the aches and pains in your feet, legs and back. With a proper consultation with your San Mateo podiatrist you can determine the best type of orthotic for optimal protection.
Type 1: Rigid Orthotics
With rigid orthotic devices, function is controlled and is primarily used for walking or with dress shoes. Rigid orthotic devices are typically made of a firm material, such as plastic or carbon fiber to effectively support your feet. Your podiatrist will take a mold of your foot using a plaster cast or another kind of image of your foot in order to create your orthotic.
Using a rigid orthotic device will control motion and may improve or eliminate strains, aches, and pains in the feet, legs, thighs and lower back. These are long lasting, do not change shape and are usually difficult to break.
Type 2:Soft Orthotics
Generally used to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots, soft orthotics are usually effective for diabetic, arthritic, and deformed feet. Soft orthotics are typically made up of soft, cushioned materials so that they can be worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel past the ball of the foot and including the toes.
Type 3:Semi-Rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotic devices provide dynamic balance of the foot while walking or participating in sports, or other various physical activities. This helps to guide the foot through proper functions, allowing the muscles and tendons to perform more efficiently. It is constructed of layers of soft material and reinforced with rigid materials.
Your San Mateo podiatrist can effectively evaluate the lower extremity as a whole in order to provide for appropriate orthotic control for your foot problems. Contact your podiatrist today for an evaluation and to remain on track for healthy, pain free feet.
