eTopical Precious Finds
According to a study published by the Australian government, nearly one in five people reported chronic foot pain, stiffness, or otherwise uncomfortable aching. These numbers only hint at the wider issue that many people are facing throughout the world, as feet and ankle issues are only exacerbated by a lack of treatment.
For those of us living in the UK, treating foot and ankle pain requires a commitment to purchase the best podiatry supplies in Ireland, including orthotic inserts. Orthotic inserts can help to normalize your pain by reducing it substantially.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are prescription medical devices that you can wear within your shoes. These inserts work to correct any potential biomechanical foot issues that could lead to major problems with your gait. These issues can impact how you stand, run, or even walk!
Where Can I Get Orthotic Inserts?
Orthotic inserts need to be prescribed after a custom fitting to ensure their effectiveness. While many retail outlets offer shoe inserts, often made from cushion, foam, or gel, they are not fitted to your body and as such will not provide the same remedies.
To best treat your potential foot and ankle pains, consider working with a podiatrist who can provide and prescribe custom-made orthotic inserts. Certain companies utilize innovative technology to craft orthotic insoles the very same day that they are requested. Help can be on the way with little more than a scheduled appointment.
Different Types of Orthotics
As individuals will experience differing issues, it is important to have accommodating orthotics to suit their needs. There are two primary forms of orthotic that shoppers will be looking for.
1) Functional Orthotics “Rigid” – Rigid/functional orthotics are made from carbon fiber or plastic and are ideal for daily functionality. These orthotic inserts work well with dress shoes, low heels, closed toes, and walking shoes. Endeavor to ease foot aches as well as pains and strains throughout the lower body, rigid orthotics are an ideal solution if you do not feel like your feet work as they should.
2) Accommodative Orthotics “Soft” – Soft/accommodative orthotics are designed and crafted with compressive materials, typically to provide softer cushioning for sore spots. You’ll find that soft orthotics are often used for individuals that struggle with diabetes-related foot ulcers and plantar fasciitis, a lingering foot issue. Soft orthotics are larger than their rigid counterparts and as such are not as flexible with traditional footwear. If you are considering an accommodative orthotic device, discuss prescription footwear while doing so.
Acquiring Your Orthotic Inserts
During a traditional appointment, you will work with a podiatrist while they take 3D scans of your foot. This session will include an examination and a demonstration of your average gait. Once this is accomplished, your podiatrist will decide if orthotics are the right step to take moving forward. If this is the case, you will get a precision-made mold of your feet that will be turned into one of the orthotic options that we outlined above.
Orthotics provide a real opportunity for individuals struggling from foot pain to find a solution. Reclaim your mobility and embrace a healthier future by finding out if orthotic inserts are right for you!
