When Might Orthotic Insoles Be Useful?
Orthotic insoles are firm yet flexible supportive aids that slip into your shoes. They are used to treat a number of foot health problems, and if your podiatrist feels you would benefit from orthotic insoles, they will measure your feet and have a set custom-made to provide the greatest benefit and ensure they fit correctly.
Custom foot orthotics can be used to take pressure off an area of your foot by altering the distribution of weight across your sole. They can also be used to cushion painful areas, which can help reduce inflammation, and they can lift and support areas of your foot that are weak. Orthotic insoles are used as part of the treatment approach for several foot conditions. Read on to learn about three common foot conditions that can be treated with orthotic insoles.
Collapsed Arches
Collapsed foot arches can occur due to an injury, an underlying inflammatory condition or changes to hormone levels during pregnancy, which can cause your ligaments to loosen. This foot condition is relatively common and leads to foot pain. Your body tries to adjust to the change in the shape of your feet, which can lead to postural changes and lower back pain. Custom orthotic insoles can help by lifting your foot arches, which keeps your alignment in check.
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is a condition that's characterised by pain in the ball of the foot. This condition is often related to high-impact exercise, such as jumping and running, which can cause you to land heavily on the front of your feet. This strain on the ball of your foot can lead to inflammation and muscle tension. Orthotic insoles can help by cushioning the front of your foot and allowing the inflammation to subside by altering weight distribution across your foot.
Neuropathy
Neuropathy is a condition that causes nerve damage and can affect the feet of those with certain health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and multiple sclerosis. Neuropathy can lead to muscle weakness in your feet and your toes can curl in as a result, which makes it difficult to get footwear on and off and can lead to your toes rubbing on shoes and blistering. Orthotic insoles can be used to provide support to weak foot muscles and will often be prescribed alongside muscle-strengthening exercises.
It may be tempting to self-diagnose and buy a pair of standard insoles without seeing a podiatrist. However, a custom-made pair of insoles will offer the correct type of support for the shape of your feet and the condition being treated. If you're experiencing any problems with your feet, have them looked at by your podiatrist.
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