subject: Walk, Run And Stand Comfortably With Custom-made Orthotics [print this page] With the temperatures finally cooling off here in Arizona, more people are enjoying the outdoors. If you are one of the many who enjoy outdoor walks or hikes, be sure to protect your feet from any discomfort you may be feeling while walking or running. To help protect your feet from the pain of a long day on your feet, custom made orthotics may be an appropriate solution for protecting your feet from pain.
Orthotic devices come in many shapes, sizes and materials to help alleviate your foot ailments. They also fall under three different categories, which include: rigid, soft and semi-rigid orthotics. Orthotics allow people to stand, walk, and run more efficiently and comfortably than they have previously. Don't let your feet get the best of you. Continue walking strong with custom made orthotics from your podiatrist in Scottsdale, AZ.
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are used to alter or modify foot function and are designed to treat, adjust, and support various biomechanical foot disorders. The most effective are custom-made orthotics, which are created to meet the specific needs of an individual's foot shape and problem.
Your podiatrist prescribes orthotics as a conservative approach to many foot problems or as a method of control after certain types of foot surgery. Orthotics are custom made shoe inserts that serve the purpose of correcting an abnormal walking pattern. By slightly altering the angles at which the foot strikes a walking or running surface, orthotics make standing, walking, and running more comfortable and efficient.
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.
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.
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 podiatrist in Scottsdale can effectively evaluate the lower extremity as a whole in order to provide appropriate orthotic control for foot problems. Contact your podiatrist today for an evaluation and to remain on track for healthy, pain free feet year round.
