|
If you are a runner or an athlete looking for enhanced protection and comfort while performing sports and other activities, custom-made orthotics from your podiatrist in Concord may be a good option. Many runners and athletes wear orthotics to prevent foot and ankle pain. Custom-made orthotics are used to control motion in the foot and eliminate foot pain commonly associated with many foot and ankle conditions. Orthotics can treat conditions associated with heel pain/plantar fasciitis, arthritis, tendonitis, flat foot and high arch deformities, among others. What are Orthotics? As you walk, your heel swings from side to side slightly. If your heel swings too far when you walk or run, your foot may be over pronating, or flattening too much. The incorrect movement stresses and weakens parts of your foot. Over time, you may develop symptoms in your feet ranging from a change in the shape to pain while you walk or run. Orthotics are medical devices that support and gently reposition the heel, arch, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones in the feet. These enable the structures to work together as nature intended; ensuring each step you take is pain-free. Unlike shoe inserts that are bought over-the-counter, are built from molds of your feet to meet your unique needs. Additionally, they can be designed to properly fit in dress shoes, athletic shoes, boots, and skates. Who Benefits from Custom Orthotics? Custom-made orthotics can relieve an array of different kinds of foot pain including heel pain, plantar fasciitis, arch pain, pain caused by running, walking and other athletics, and many other foot pain disorders. If you are an active runner or athlete, orthotics can be used to keep the foot in its most efficient alignment, allowing the bones, muscles, tendons and ligaments to work to their highest potential. Additionally, orthotics protect the heel, arch and forefoot from the unnatural and increased stress that prolonged running and sports activity produce. Whether it is to prevent problems, relieve pain, or increase efficiency, runners and other athletes will benefit greatly from the use of custom-made orthotics from your podiatrist. Types of Orthotics Orthotic devices come in many shapes, sizes, and materials. Falling into three main categories, orthotics are designed to change foot function, protect your feet, and combine functional control and protection. Depending on the purpose, orthotics fall into the following categories: • Rigid Orthotics - designed to control function and are used primarily for walking or dress shoes.
• Soft Orthotics - generally used to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots.
• Semi-Rigid Orthotics - provide foot balance for walking or participating in sports. If you are an active walker or runner, or participate in sports and experience pain in your feet, contact your podiatrist in Indianapolis today for further treatment. Your podiatrist in Concord can examine your feet and properly prescribe the appropriate orthotic to help relieve your pain.
Sean Hartmen writes for premier Concord podiatrist, Dr. Kevin McDonald. He had practiced in Georgia for close to twenty years before moving to North Carolina in 2005. Dr. McDonald has a keen interest in professional development and ongoing educational training, allowing him to provide the best in quality podiatric care including Concord diabetic foot care, heel pain, and bunions.
|
