Orthotic arch supports are devices that are worn inside the shoes to provide extra support to the feet. They are made of lightweight materials, and they come in a wide range of materials.
Simple, inexpensive orthotic arch supports (over the counter arch supports) can be purchased at pharmacies / sports stores etc. Custom made orthotics can be ordered through a podiatrist or specialized footwear store. These types of supports require that impressions be made, and the final product is created through computer generation.
While basic, over-the-counter shoe inserts may cost less, they typically do not provide the same level of support and relief than one would find with a custom orthotic arch support. A one-size-fits all approach often does not fit many people properly. It might even compound the problem.
Specialized orthotic arch supports can be quite helpful when it comes to treating a variety of foot problems, including plantar fasciitis, flat feet, fallen arches, and more.
They can restore your mobility by reducing your pain, inflammation, and swelling. Proper support of the foot helps to correct the alignment of the entire body, which can relieve knee, hip, and back pain.
Conditions that Benefit from Orthotic Arch Supports
If you suffer from any of the following foot conditions, you may wish to consider using orthotic arch supports.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the most common source of foot pain. The plantar fascia is the ligament that connects the heel to the toes and provides support to the foot’s arch. When the plantar fascia becomes strained or inflamed, it is known as plantar fasciitis. This condition causes pain, weakness, and swelling in the heels.
Plantar fasciitis usually develops over an extended period of time. Many patients who have plantar fasciitis first notice pain in the heels when they first stand up out of bed in the morning; it often feels as if the bottoms of the feet are stretched too tight. The pain can also occur after sitting for an extended period of time.
Fallen Arches
Fallen arches is a painful foot condition that occurs when the arch of the foot collapses, either partially or completely. Fallen arches are most common in adults, elderly people, and pregnant women.
People who have flat feet are more prone to developing fallen arches. The tendons and ligaments in the feet stretch over time and lose their elasticity. If the feet are flat feet to begin with, the tendons and ligaments can stretch to the point that they collapse, resulting in fallen arches.
When a woman is pregnant, her body’s muscles loosen in preparation for childbirth. The muscles in the feet loosen, as well, which makes pregnant women particularly prone to fallen arches.
People who have flat feet are more likely to develop fallen arches. If you have fallen arches, you will likely experience pain in your ankles, heels, legs, and lower back. You might also notice redness, swelling, and inflammation in your feet.
This is a result of the tendons and ligaments in the feet being stretched too far. You may even be able to recognize visually that the appearance of your foot has changed – the area where the arch should be now looks flatter.
These are just a couple of the conditions that can benefit from orthotic arch supports. You can also find relief in orthotic inserts if you have bunions, shin splints, or any type of gait abnormality.
If you experience foot pain, visit Foot Solutions UK. We offer a wide variety of supportive shoes as well as over the counter arch supports and custom made arch supports. Visit Foot Solutions UK to learn more today.
