There are many conditions which can be treated successfully with orthotics including pain within the foot, and pain in the joints and muscles of the legs. Often (though not always) back pain has its root in the position of the pelvis and that is affected by the way we walk.
Some of the conditions which orthotics can benefit include:-
- Arthritic or other pain in the Big Toe Joint (or anywhere in the feet)
- Forefoot pain (Mortons neuroma, Metatarsalgia etc)
- Heel pain (plantar fascitis)
- Arch pain
- Ankle pain
- Muscular pain in the legs, feet and ankles
- Hip pain
- Lower back pain
Orthotics reposition the foot structure to achieve optimum skeletal balance, thereby reducing the stress on the joints that are causing the discomfort. They do this by controlling joint movement, and by altering some angles to prevent excessive motion.
There are many different types of orthotics. The type that is used depends on the activity in which the patient is involved, the shoes they want to wear, and the underlying foot problem.
We do not use the “one size fits all” off the shelf devices that many prescribe. Like the reading glasses you may see in the chemist or supermarket these are at best crude devices which may not suit your feet, shoes, or function. Sometimes they can even make matters worse.