Wondering whether your feet could benefit from orthotics?
Most people know the importance of wearing supportive shoes, but did you know that orthotics could provide your feet with additional 
support and cushioning when standing or moving around? They can even prevent strains and structural imbalances, both of which can lead to further problems if left untreated. Find out if you should talk to our Kalispell, UT, podiatrist, Dr. Esther Barnes, about getting orthotics.
What are orthotics?
Orthotics are custom shoe inserts that are made from different materials to accommodate and support different foot problems. While you can get over-the-counter shoe inserts, these may not provide you with the relief you need since they aren’t tailored to your foot structure and the problems you want to address with orthotics. In some cases, over-the-counter shoe inserts can even make issues worse.
That’s why many people, from athletes to restaurant employees, choose to get custom orthotics from a podiatrist who provides their feet with the custom support they need to feel their best.
Who can benefit from orthotics?
Since many people suffer from pronation, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that most people can benefit from getting custom orthotics from our Kalispell, UT, foot doctor. In fact, people dealing with back pain may experience relief once they finally start wearing custom orthotics.
You could benefit from orthotics if you are dealing with,
- Plantar fasciitis
- Lower back pain
- Hip or knee pain
- Arthritis
- Bunions
- Achilles tendonitis
Even if you aren’t dealing with any specific problems but want to prevent strain, pain, and imbalances, orthotics might be right for you. Athletes can find orthotics to be particularly helpful when physically active.
What are the different kinds of orthotics?
There are two types of orthotics: functional and accommodative. Functional orthotics are designed to improve how the foot moves as well as to provide support, cushioning, and shock absorption for it. If you are someone who pronates, as so many of us do, then you very well could benefit from this kind of orthotics.
Contrastly, accommodative orthotics are designed to correct functional problems and control certain abnormal foot movements to reduce pain and other symptoms.
Orthotics can be rigid, semi-rigid, or soft, depending on the type of issues you are facing. For example, those with diabetes may require softer orthotics, while those with strains and back pain caused by foot imbalances may require rigid orthotics.
Interested? Call today!
We believe that you should be able to walk through life without pain and discomfort. If your feet are giving you issues or if you want to find out if custom orthotics could improve how you move, it’s time to call Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Clinic in Kalispell, UT, at (406) 755-2818. Schedule a consultation with us today!