Custom orthotics don’t usually come up in casual conversation. If you’ve heard of them, you might think they’re mostly for people with foot pain or who need extra support.
Once you deal with foot issues, though, you realize how beneficial custom orthotics can be.
Here at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists of Arizona, our expert team uses these devices in ways that go far beyond relieving foot pain. Here are five benefits of custom orthotics you probably haven’t thought about before:
Your feet carry the burden of your body, but they’re also connected to the rest of your body. Your feet, ankles, knees, hips, and back must be in alignment for your body to work properly.
Feet even slightly out of alignment can affect the entire body. If they turn in or out, for instance, your back can end up out of alignment.
Custom orthotics provide a proper foundation for your feet, allowing the rest of your body to function optimally.
Custom orthotics give your feet the support and structure they need so the muscles, tendons, and ligaments aren’t stretching and straining to support your body weight for hours on end. That keeps your feet fresher and stronger throughout the day.
With custom orthotics, you can be on your feet longer before they start aching and feeling tired.
Custom orthotics distribute your weight evenly across your feet, giving you better stability. If your balance seems off or you feel unsure on your feet, custom orthotics may help you stay steady and strong.
Researchers are even testing custom orthotics as a fall-prevention measure in older adults.
Custom orthotics can help correct your gait as well. When walking, many people tend to overpronate (ankles turn inward) or supinate (ankles lean outward). That can cause issues with body alignment and lead to pain in your feet and throughout your body.
Custom orthotics help your ankles and feet to function correctly, improving your alignment and correcting your gait so it looks and functions better.
As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. If you have a structural issue with your feet or a medical condition that affects them (such as diabetes), don’t wait until you can’t bear the pain to get custom orthotics.
Getting orthotics early, before you experience pain, saves you hardship in the long run. Custom orthotics can correct problems early and may even allow you to avoid foot pain completely.
If you’re dealing with foot issues and need professional guidance for the most effective solutions, our team at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists of Arizona is here to help.
Call our Chandler, Arizona, office at 480-963-9000 or request your appointment online today.