Unfortunately, foot pain has become a common issue in today's world. Many of us are asked to work jobs that keep us on our feet for many hours. This can cause an incredible amount of stress on our feet. One way you can make your life a little more pain-free is to invest in custom orthotics.

Custom orthotics are inserts that you can put into your shoes. Prescribed by a doctor, they are made specifically for the size and shape of your feet. In addition, they are designed to absorb shock and remove pressure. This means that customized orthotics are ideal for anyone that spends a lot of time on their feet. Not only this, but orthotics are perfect for those with an irregular walking pattern that causes pain in their feet or ankles.‍

What Conditions Can Instant Custom Orthotics Help With?

There are a variety of different conditions that instant custom orthotics can help with. Foot pain can impact many other parts of the body including the hips, knees, and back. That’s why it’s so important to take care of your foot pain before it creates other issues. 

Conditions:

• Bunions: These are painful bumps at the base of the big toe.
• Back pain: Good foot health is the key to good balance. Without it, your back is negatively impacted
• Bursitis: This is inflammation in the heels and toes. Good heel and arch support can help to relieve the pain
• Diabetes: A condition connected to diabetes called diabetic neuropathy can cause numbness in the feet. Orthotics can help reduce the stress that could potentially lead to foot ulcers
• Heel spurs: Heel spurs occur when an excess bone grows on the heel. Orthotics can help relieve the pressure
• Flat feet: Those with flat feet often experience foot, ankle, and back pain. 
• Hammertoes: Often connected to bunions. Orthotics can help reduce pressure.
• Assorted injuries: There are plenty of ways of injuring your feet or body. Orthotics can offer support.
• Plantar fasciitis: A condition that creates pain in the heel.

‍What do Orthotics Actually Do?

Custom orthotics can help many different ailments, but in what ways specifically? While it’s wise to learn what conditions these inserts can assist with, it’s also good to know specifically how they actually help.

• They help to correct foot deformities
• Orthotics provide support to the ankles, knees, and back
• They help to correct problematic gait patterns
• They help to reduce further injuries
• Lastly, orthotics redistribute the pressure on your feet 

Custom Orthotics Near Me

If you relate to some of the above conditions and believe custom orthotics are for you, the first step is to visit your podiatrist.

Your podiatrist will perform a series of tests including a gait analysis (examining how you move your body).

Other things such as foot type, and movement of ankles, knees, and hips will also be assessed. Also, in specific cases, your doctor might perform an x-ray. 

Through their analysis, they will decide which type of orthotics is right for you.

• Rigid Custom Orthotics: These are made from a firm material like plastic or carbon fiber. They’re meant to help to control motion in certain foot joints below the ankle. These are generally for those with leg, thigh, or lower back issues.
• Soft Custom Orthotics: These are meant to improve balance and take pressure off the feet. These materials are much softer and can help with arthritis and diabetes-based pain.
• Semi-Rigid Custom Orthotics: This type of orthotic is essentially a combination of the previous two. They help offer balance for running and sports. In addition to this, they help the body perform more efficiently. They possess both soft and rigid materials.

Diablo Foot & Ankle is Here for You

If you’re dealing with chronic foot pain and need medical assistance, Diablo Foot & Ankle is here for you. Make an appointment or request a consultation through our website. Our  Board-Certified Podiatrists, Dr. Elmi and Dr. Essapoor, are ready to serve you!