
How to Find the Right Orthotic For Your Feet
Did you know most people get shoe insoles at retail shoe stores? A wide variety of shoe insoles can be bought from these markets for your favourite shoes. But these insoles are not healthy for your feet. They need to be built according to the orthotic specialists.
They neither spread body weight evenly nor are they made according to a particular foot size. Orthotic inserts are the best option and solution for your feet. Foot orthotics are specially designed insoles for shoes prescribed by a pedorthist and another foot specialist.
It is important to understand various features of orthotics to find the right ones for your feet. Here is a guideline to help you find the right orthotic type.
Also Read : Why Is Custom Orthotics Essential For Diabetic Patients?
Guidelines to Find The Right Orthotic For Your Feet
It is important to have orthotic inserts custom-made because they are made according to your feet’ structure. The guidelines make these inserts of the foot specialist and the orthotics department.
1. Orthotics placement.
It is mandatory to know where you will be placing the orthotics. An example of a full-length insert wheel required the removal of existing insoles. But if a person wants to wear orthotics in addition to existing shoe soles, then flat full-length is the best option. Depending upon the shoe manufacturer’s and foot specialist’s instruction, you can place either of the soles above another.
2. Orthotics size.
The orthotic size is generally measured compared to the shoe insole range. This is because if any extra length of orthotic insoles is left, it can be easily removed or cut out to fit the shoe. It is important to trim them according to accurate shoe size.
Also Read : Easy And Simple 5 Tips For Preventing Heel Pain
3. Foot Arch.
It is accurate to choose the right types of orthotics that fit the type of arch of the foot accurately. Choosing an orthotic not according to the right type of arch of your feet will only escalate your foot problems and pain.
You can also consult a type foot specialist to know the right type of arch for your feet to buy inserts. The right insert type is an orthotic that offers maximum support to your foot arch. The three main types of foot arches are given below.
- Fallen arches, flat feet, or Low arches.
- Neutral arches or medium arches
- High arches
Also Read : Five Common Foot Problems That Need Orthotics
4. Type of orthotics material.
There are four main types of materials from which orthotic is made. These materials include gel, cork, leather, and foam. There are different types of conditions according to which different types of materials offer their advantage and features.
For example, the foam material is best for cushioning and maximum support.
Gel inserts are best for natural shock absorption. Cork material gives light cushioning as well as support. Leather offers you custom fitting. Other orthotic materials, such as wool, are ideal for winter. Heavy-duty inserts are ideal for heavy and industrial footwear.
There are also inserts for high heels which are ideal for stilettos, and other types of heels to keep your feet comfortable. In addition to these orthotic materials, some inserts and insoles are permanent for shoes and footwear. They also have memory foam for additional cushioning.
5. Type of orthotics footbed.
It is important to remember the reason for getting orthotics in the first place. This way, you can get additional information, such as extra support and the types of orthotics you need. Depending upon the type and material of orthotics for the feet arch, you can get an ideal insert for your shoes. There are four main types of constructions of footbeds, depending upon which you can get the type of orthotics ideal for you.
- Flat Cushion orthotics: These orthotics or insoles only offer extra cushioning. They do not offer any additional support for the feet.
- Cushioned arch support orthotics: These insoles offer all-rounder arch support. But they do not have a rigid plate of support.
- Rigid orthotic arch support orthotics: these types of inserts are rigid and firm. They do not let the body of the shoes fold.
- Semi-rigid arch support orthotic: these types of inserts are rigid and firm but can fold slightly.
Also Read : 3 Most Common Foot & Ankle Injuries Athletes Suffer From
Conclusion
Many people suffer from foot pain as well as leg pain. Other foot problems include diabetic foot ulcers, knee pain, plantar fasciitis, flat feet, etc. Extra cushioning as full as foot support can easily eliminate all these foot problems.
There are types of foot orthotics that cannot only reduce foot aches but also reduce foot abnormalities. Many expensive and inexpensive options provided by foot orthotics can relieve different foot problems.
Different orthotic insoles are designed according to your body weight and foot structure. They are evenly fabricated for comfort. Knowing the type of foot problem and your foot structure is important before you get orthotic insoles. Carbon fibre orthotics are the best type because they are firm and smooth from the inside.
Also Read : What Are Orthotic Devices?
FAQs
1. What kind of foot support do I need?
Custom orthotics are the best type of foot support that you need. If you suffer from knee pain and foot pain in addition to foot fatigue, then orthotics that offer arch support are the best support you need.
2. Do you need a bigger shoe for orthotics?
No, there is no need to have a bigger shoe for the orthotic insert. Orthotics can be custom-made, so they can be easily trimmed according to your shoe size.
3. How many hours a day should you wear orthotics?
Wearing orthotics for at least two or three hours per day is important. It takes at least one or two weeks to get used to these inserts and be comfortable.
4. How to get orthotics covered by insurance?
To get orthotics covered by insurance, make sure they are prescribed by a medical practitioner for body alignment, pain relief, support, etc., under any health benefit plan for a medical condition diagnosis.
Leave a Reply