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If you are an athlete or an active running or walker the last thing you want to feel is pain in your feet. When pain occurs in your feet it often prevents you from participating in your favorite sport or finishing your morning jog. Orthotics prescribed by your podiatrist work to balance the foot in a neutral position, cushioning the foot from excessive pounding. An array of orthotics are available for different foot problems. Your podiatrist in San Antonio may prescribe orthotics as a conservative approach to many foot problems or as a method of control after certain types of foot surgery. Constructed of various materials, orthotics are a highly successful and practical treatment for many foot deformities and problems. Custom orthotics fall into three broad categories: those that primarily attempt to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in nature, and those that combine function and protection. Rigid Orthotics for Function Control Rigid orthotics are designed to control function and are frequently made of a firm material such as plastic or carbon fiber. They are used primarily for walking or dress shoes and are generally made from a special mold of the foot. The finished device typically extends along the sole of the heel to the ball or toes of the foot. It is worn mostly in closed shoes with a heel height under two inches. With the flexible materials involved in rigid orthotics, very little alteration in shoe size is needed. The primary purpose of rigid orthotics is to control motion in two major foot joints, which lie directly below the ankle joint. Rigid orthotics are long lasting, do not change shape, and are usually difficult to break. Strains, aches, and pains in the legs, thighs, and lower back may be caused by the abnormal function of the foot, or a slight difference in the length of the legs. In these cases, rigid orthotics may improve, if not eliminate, these symptoms. Soft Orthotics for Pressure Relief Soft orthotics are used to help absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots in your feet. Typically, soft orthotics are constructed of soft, compressible materials, and may be molded by the action of the foot in walking or fashioned over a plaster impression of the foot. Similar to rigid orthotics, soft orthotics usually extend from the heel past the ball of the foot to include the toes. The advantage of using soft orthotics is that it may be easily adjusted to various weight bearing forces. The disadvantage, however, is that soft orthotic devices must be replaced or refurbished periodically. Soft orthotics are typically effective for arthritic or deformed feet where there is a loss of protective fatty tissue on the side of the foot. No matter your foot type or pain, there is an orthotic device to aide in comfort. Contact your podiatrist in San Antonio, Texas if you are experiencing foot pain that often limits your activities. After proper diagnosis an appropriate orthotic can be designed for your individual feet.
Dr. Ed Davis is a leading podiatrist in San Antonio, Texas. Providing over 25 years of experience and offering an array of foot and ankle care, including heel pain and San Antonio bunion treatment, Dr. Davis is qualified to handle any podiatric need.
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