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With hundreds of ligaments and bony structures in each foot working together to support, balance and bear the weight of the entire body, it's no surprise that many people experience foot pain and problems at some point during his or her lifetime. In fact, a majority of these foot problems are caused by poor foot function and biomechanics. Today, custom-made orthotics can be created by your podiatrist to support and gradually reposition the bones, muscles and tendons of the feet to restore normal foot function. Unlike shoe inserts bought over-the-counter, custom designed orthotics are crafted for the patient's unique foot shape and needs. Depending on the issue and the podiatrist, orthotics can take various forms, shapes and sizes, but all have the goal of improving foot function and minimizing the stress that leads to foot pain. In many cases, podiatrists prescribe orthotic foot devices to correct an abnormal gait, and often following surgery. Correct Foot Problems with Orthotics Individuals who spend a lot of time on their feet such as athletes, runners, and people with various types of injuries and health conditions can all benefit from custom made orthotics. I see a lot of athletes in both my North and South Scottsdale offices that the functional orthotics improve their performance and reduce their pain. Additionally, many people with jobs that require extended periods of walking or standing may also benefit from supportive orthotics. Designed by an experienced podiatrist in Scottsdale, orthotics are crafted to accurately fit the unique mold of a patient's foot. This helps promote proper alignment, restore balance and gently reposition the structure of the foot to improve function and reduce injury. Because poor foot biomechanics are often the source for other pain in the body, orthotics may even help alleviate pain in the knees, hip and lower back. Custom Fabrication for Maximized Foot Performance Each custom orthotic is designed differently depending on your foot shape, size, body weight, and activity level.
Orthotics deliver biomechanical support to:
• Improve foot functionality
• Reduce the risk of foot injury
• Absorb and distribute shock
• Provide relief from pain and daily stress
• Benefit total body alignment and posture To determine if orthotics are right for you, visit a podiatrist for a thorough evaluation. A podiatrist with extensive knowledge in lower extremity biomechanics will consider your foot type, analyze your gait and evaluate other factors to determine the exact cause of your pain. Based on a patient's specific problem or needs, the podiatrist can recommend whether orthotics would help reduce the pain and foot deformity, or if a different treatment would produce better results.
Never discount your foot pain. It isn't normal, and it shouldn't be ignored. Poor foot function and biomechanics may be affecting other parts of your body, including the lower back. Fortunately with orthotics designed for your specific foot issues, you can increase stability, prevent additional pain and ultimately improve your quality of life.
Dr. Mark Forman is an experienced board certified podiatrist in Scottsdale offering a wide array of foot and ankle care in North and South Scottsdale, AZ. This highly qualified Scottsdale, AZ podiatrist provides treatment for heel pain, orthotics and diabetic foot care among many other foot and ankle ailments. Visit the blog at http://www.blogster.com/scottsdalefootpain/.
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