Walking or running may seem like simple activities, but the intricate mechanics involved rely heavily on the feet and legs. These foundational structures support the entire musculoskeletal system, ensuring stability and proper alignment. However, issues like flat feet can disrupt this delicate balance, leading to a cascade of problems throughout the body.
In this article, we delve into the realm of orthotic therapy, exploring how it addresses concerns associated with flat feet. From correcting pronation to alleviating conditions like plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis, orthotics play a crucial role in restoring biomechanical harmony. We’ll explore the nuances of orthotic intervention, its synergies with alternative treatments, and the profound impact it can have on enhancing mobility and reducing discomfort. Join us on a journey through the intricate interplay between orthotics and foot health, and discover how stepping confidently begins with proper support.
Pronation
The feet and legs are the foundation of the body, supporting and stabilising the entire musculoskeletal system during walking or running. Abnormal pronation, or inward rolling of the foot during the ground portion of a step, can lead to uneven weight distribution which will throw off normal gait and create imbalances throughout the lower body.
Orthotics help to correct this problem by providing arch support and stability, reducing excessive pronation and supination which will improve foot alignment, reduce foot strain and prevent future problems. However, orthotics are not a complete treatment.
Alternative treatments for flat feet can also be helpful, including physical therapy and stretching. Specific exercises that target the intrinsic foot muscles to strengthen the arches and promote better foot structure can be very effective. Stretches that target the calf and Achilles muscles can help to improve tightness and rebalance the body’s weight distribution. These treatments can reduce the need for long-term reliance on orthotic support.
Plantar Fasciitis
For some people, the primary cause of foot pain is a deformity like plantar fasciitis, which occurs due to irritation of dense bands of tissue that connect your heel bone to your toes. This painful condition often causes sharp heel pain when you start walking and can worsen as the day goes on.
Orthotics reposition your feet in a way that achieves a more normal skeletal balance. They do this by changing the way you move your foot, ankle, knee and hip. They also reduce stress on muscles and joints in your lower leg, knees, hips, sacroiliac joint, and even lower back and neck.
A good orthotic starts with a thorough assessment of the biomechanics of your feet and legs, including footwear, activity levels and a visual gait analysis. A PODOSmart motion analysis insole placed into your shoes will provide additional information on your lower limb function that can’t be seen with a visual analysis alone.
Achilles Tendinitis
Orthotics can help relieve Achilles tendonitis by repositioning the foot structure to achieve optimum skeletal balance and controlling excessive ankle movement. In addition, orthotic devices can reduce loads on the Achilles tendon by deflecting the pressure from high-load areas such as calluses and corns to lower load areas.
Roughly 10 percent of adults have flat feet, which means their arches have fallen and the entire sole of their feet comes into contact with the ground when they walk or run. This can lead to a wide variety of problems, including pain and discomfort in the heel, arch, and forefoot.
Treatment options include low-impact exercise, NSAIDs, stretching exercises, and physical therapy. Orthotic intervention can also improve the quality of the patient’s gait, reducing foot, knee and hip loading. This can help the patient to resume their normal activities more quickly and reduce pain and discomfort. Combined with a good pair of shoes, orthotics can help patients get back to doing the things they enjoy most.
Knee Pain
Pain in the knees can be a sign of a problem in the feet or elsewhere in the body. In many cases, orthotics can help reduce knee pain by promoting proper foot alignment and helping balance biomechanical imbalances that lead to overuse injuries.
Orthotics can also reduce stress on the knees by redistributing pressure more evenly and acting as shock absorbers. They can also provide support and stability to arches that may be prone to excessive inward rolling (pronation) that puts strain on the knees.
Providing the right type and level of orthotic support is critical in achieving optimal results. Orthotics are customised to fit your feet and shoes so that they don’t restrict movement or cause discomfort. In order to make a custom orthotic, we first need to obtain a non-weight bearing impression of your feet. This can be done in a variety of ways and requires a certain level of skill and expertise to ensure that the orthotic duplicates all three natural arches of your feet.
Stride with Confidence
In the intricate dance of movement, our feet serve as the silent orchestrators of balance and stability. From the subtle shift of weight to the graceful arc of a step, every movement is a testament to their importance. Yet, when faced with challenges like flat feet, the harmony of motion can falter, leaving discomfort and uncertainty in its wake.
Enter orthotic therapy in Thornbury, a beacon of hope for those navigating the rough terrain of foot-related ailments. Through customised support and targeted intervention, orthotics offer a pathway to reclaiming mobility and rediscovering comfort. From addressing pronation to alleviating the sting of plantar fasciitis, these marvels of modern podiatry stand as pillars of support in the journey toward wellness. Don’t hesitate to visit talariapodiatrist.com.au to book your appointment and take the first step towards addressing any foot concerns you may have. Their team of experienced professionals is ready to provide you with personalised care and guidance to help you stride confidently toward better foot health.
