Orthotic inserts

An orthotic is an orthopedic support which is used to realign or provide support to a certain part of the body.

In the case of feet, shoes and footwear, orthotics can be used as insoles and inserts within a shoe to correct or prevent a number of damaging foot disorders - a common example being a fallen arch.

Different types of foot orthotic

There are many different types of orthotics that fit within a shoe. Most can be purchased online or through stores, however some of the more specialist adaptations may need to be prescribed by a doctor and made to the specific measurements of the foot or feet in question. This type of orthotic is a bespoke or customised insert.

There are however a large number of generic orthotic shoe inserts that can be purchased directly without a prescription or medical intervention. When this is the case it is important that the recipient buys an orthotic that firstly, is suitable for their condition and secondly, is the correct fit for both their shoe and their foot.

Problems that can be addressed with an orthotic

The function of an orthotic is not to repair or heal an injury, foot deformation or weakness. Its task is to help the foot to do its job more effectively (and without pain) by realigning, stabilising or supporting. For this reason wearing an orthotic is a long term ongoing way of managing a foot problem and not a cure or treatment that leads to a permanent recovery.

Since there are many different foot related problems there are many different orthotics designed to manage them. There are also a number of inserts (that are not strictly orthotics) which can help to cushion the feet, offer a massage sensation when walking, or give a cool feel to the soles of the feet. Inserts of this type can be very effective, but they are not orthotic.

Examples of some of the complaints that orthotic inserts can manage include the following.

Fallen arches that often result in a pain in the ball of the foot cause by over pronation (the foot twisting in towards the ankle as the arches collapse). This can also be caused by wearing high heeled fashion shoes where the front of the foot is forced to do all of the load bearing. Orthotics can normally correct this condition.

Plantar fasciitis which can result in heel pain and may ultimately lead to the development of a growth called a heel spur. Corrective orthotics can relieve this discomfort.

Inflammation of the Achilles tendon, known as Achilles Tendonitis, which results in a tight feeling in the calf muscle of the leg and a pain just above the back of the heel. The wearing of orthotic inserts can correct this problem and relieve the symptoms.

Callouses, corns and bunions tend to be the result of wearing poorly fitting shoes. However this may be because the wearer has feet that do not readily conform to the shape and size of standard shoes. Inserts can be used to correct the fit.

Many other foot related problems can benefit from the use of orthotics and they include Morton's Neuroma, flat feet and various types of pain and discomfort that affect the feet and lower legs.

In selecting an orthotic shoe insert it is important to ensure that you understand your symptoms and the underlying cause. You can only select the correct orthotic solution when this is the case. If you have any doubts you should seek the help and advice of a doctor, chiropodist or podiatrist. If your problem is a severe one then it may be necessary to have some orthotic shoes made to your unique requirements.

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