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Heel pain, shin splints, hip pain, back pain-all of these bodily aches can be the result of faulty mechanics between the bones and muscles of the foot. With your feet as the major weight-bearing part of the body, you rely on them to stand, walk and run. But when your feet aren't functioning properly, it can have a painful impact on other parts of your body including the hips, knees and back. Podiatrists offer orthotics to reduce pain and restore proper function to the feet, thus relieving pain. An orthotic device is inserted into the shoe and is designed to restore and aid the natural foot function. This is achieved by realigning the foot and ankles to their natural position, allowing muscles and joints to move with less stress and tension. Custom Made for Your Needs Foot pain is never normal and should not be ignored. Always visit your St. Louis, MO podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment. Whether you are active in sports or simply want to relieve pain caused by the stresses of everyday tasks, you can benefit from a custom made orthotic device. Many people can benefit from orthotics, including people with jobs that require standing or walking for extended periods of time. Common foot ailments, such as corns, calluses, Morton's neuroma, flat foot, hammertoe and plantar fasciitis can often be improved with the help of a custom-made shoe insert that fits comfortably into the shoe. Orthotic devices allow the bones, tendons and muscles of the feet and lower legs to function at their highest potential. Orthotics can decrease discomfort and improve function, not only in the foot, but also in other parts of the body so that everyday tasks aren't painful. Rigid Orthotics for Controlled Motion 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 to Absorb Shock and Increase Balance 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 Provide Balance While Walking or Participating in Sports 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. If you have questions about custom orthotics or think you could benefit from orthotics, contact your St. Louis podiatrist for an appointment. Orthotics designed for your specific requirements and unique needs can restore proper function and relieve pain so that you can stand, walk, jog and run without discomfort.
Dr. Richard Wittock, podiatrist in St. Louis, received his doctorate from Barry University in Miami, FL, and earned Magna Cum Laude honors in both his undergraduate and doctoral degrees. Dr. Wittock, St. Louis podiatrist, is also a specialist in reconstructive surgery of the ankle and foot.
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