subject: Provide Comfort For Your Feet Throughout The Day With Orthotics [print this page] If you are suffering from pain in your feet that just won't go away it is important to talk to your podiatrist in Memphis for proper diagnosis and treatment options. To help relieve painful symptoms, orthotics may be an appropriate treatment option for you. Orthotics come in many styles ranging from inexpensive prefabricated devices available at drug stores and shoe stores, to custom-designed devices that are molded to your individual foot.
What are Orthotics?
An orthotic device is placed in your shoe to provide support for your foot. Orthotics can provide cushioning and help even out pressure. They can also help control abnormal motion that might be causing some discomfort and pain. The main categories of orthotics include nonprescription orthotics, and custom-molded orthotics.
Nonprescription orthotics are prefabricated inserts that can be found in drugstores and shoe stores. They can be made of very soft, cushioned materials or of semi-rigid materials with more structure to them. Some types of nonprescription orthotics can be heat molded to better fit the contours of your foot. If your podiatrist recommends an orthotic device to treat foot pain, nonprescription orthotics are often a great place to begin.
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.
Take a Look at Your Shoes
Before considering an orthotic device, it is also important to take a good look at the shoes you are wearing. Orthotics are meant to work in conjunction with a quality shoe, not as a way to try to improve a poor-quality shoe. In fact, a high quality-walking shoe with a supportive arch that accommodates your foot problems may be just as helpful as an orthotic insert. It is also important to replace your shoes when they are worn out.
Orthotics can provide pain relief, but depending on the condition, they may not do the entire job. Shoe modifications may be needed along with an orthotic, such as a heel wedge or a brace to support a painful or weak ankle. In addition, an orthotic is usually part of a larger plan for pain relief, which may also include physical therapy or weight loss.
Talk to your podiatrist in Memphis, TN for more information on orthotics and what the best solution for relieving your pain is. Whether you need orthotics for pain relief, or any other treatment, your Memphis podiatrist is available to diagnose and treat your symptoms.
