The term “Orthotic” can describe many different types of insoles . The critical choice of which orthotic or insole is best for the individual depends on the application, lifestyle and personal requirements.
Unless the solution to this is straight forward, it is best to have a podiatrist examine the foot and leg and analyse one’s walking and/or running habits. By doing so you can be confident the appropriate advise on which type of orthotic is best suited for your needs and the best value for money.
Also they will provide or refer you to any adjunctive therapy so to resolve any associated symptoms. Finally, they will provide you with ongoing care should the orthotics require adjustment.
What do orthotics do?
- To aid in correcting the foot and leg function so to normalise the damaging forces that can cause injury, inflammation and pain
- To actively re-distribute load and stress away from areas of trauma that have developed as a result of too much pressure
- To support feet while standing for long period of time that can result in foot strain, often causing the day to day foot aches
- To accommodate enlarged joints, arthritic changes and other lumps and bumps in our feet we get through living life
- To enhance the function of the feet, ankles, knees and legs when the body is placed under high stress such occurs in sports
- To redistribute pressure from prominate structures that can cause high pressure sometimes resulting in tissue damage such as ulcers.
Please note: this advice is very general and an accurate diagnosis on the function of your legs and feet can only be made after consulting a podiatrist.