Studies show that 78% of Americans experience foot pain due to wearing ill-fitting and uncomfortable shoes. Further research showed that one in four Americans have foot pain so severe it prevents them from performing daily activities. Foot pain should not be a part of our daily lives. Not when there are ample resources to minimize and eliminate foot pain.

Over-the-counter treatment and support, physical therapy, and medications all help to alleviate foot pain, but orthotics are often more effective. If you're experiencing foot pain or are looking to prioritize your foot health, consult with a podiatrist to see if orthotics are right for you. 

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are medical devices that work with the natural mechanics of your foot to promote overall health and support. They work to gently align the bones, muscles, and tendons in your foot which makes standing, walking, and daily activities more comfortable. Podiatrists can monitor changes in the shape of the foot, gradual improvement, and any problems that may arise. 

Custom Orthotics

A custom orthotic insert is effective in promoting foot health because it is uniquely tailored to your needs. Orthotics are molded specifically to your foot and should fit perfectly into your shoes, making them one of a kind. Most custom orthotics are made by making a plaster mold of the patient's foot and then sending the mold to a lab. From here the insert is made to be an exact replica of the patient's foot. 

These inserts are each a unique shape, size, and material as they are customized to your personal needs. Your insole may be made of a rigid or a soft material based on the level of support needed and the condition of your foot. 

• Rigid insoles: These insoles are a functional solution, meant to help ease foot aches and strains. They are made out of hard plastic or carbon fiber material and offer support to other areas of the body. Such as your feet, ankles, and legs, and are best used in the treatment of flat feet and plantar fasciitis. 
• Soft insoles: These insoles are meant to be worn for comfort as they take the pressure off of irritated areas of the feet. Made out of soft compression materials, this option should be used to treat bunions, calluses, sores, or ulcers. 

Benefits of Orthotics

If you are experiencing foot pain from overuse, or untreated ailments, or are recovering from an operation a custom insole may relieve some of your discomforts. They are made uniquely for each foot meaning that they should fit easily into your shoes. Orthotics provide regular support, decrease discomfort, and increase foot health. These are some of the specific ways podiatrists say orthotics will benefit your overall foot health:

• Correct biomechanical issues
• Assist in pain relief
• Help to redistribute pressure
• Allows for a personalized fit
• Will provide support and prevent injuries

Also, do not be surprised if you feel less bodily fatigue once you have incorporated an orthotic insole into your life. With this extra boost of support, the rest of your body will feel more comfortable and energized. 

When is an Orthotic Needed? 

We recommend using an orthotic insole if you feel that your foot pain is preventing you from enjoying and participating in daily activities. More specifically, we recommend using orthotics if you have been diagnosed with one or more of the following:

• Arthritis
• Bunions
• Calluses
• Diabetes complications
• Flat feet
• Plantar fasciitis 
• Tendonitis

Common Misconceptions 

Many people believe that orthotic inserts will cause more pain or weaken the muscles of the feet. To help ease your mind, our podiatrists have gone through the most common misconceptions regarding orthotics and their effectiveness. 

• You can get foot pain from orthotics: If your orthotic insert is causing pain or discomfort, it's not working correctly. The material may be wrong or your foot profile may have changed. If you are experiencing these symptoms, call and schedule an appointment with your provider. 
• Orthotics feel bulky and uncomfortable: New technologies have made orthotics much lighter and thinner. Allowing them to provide structural support and be flexible at the same time. The modern thin design also makes it easier to wear inserts in casual shoes.
• Over-the-counter orthotics are just as efficient as custom inserts: Some individuals will have success with over-the-counter orthotics as there are several reputable options. However, these are not efficient for long-term support. Over-the-counter inserts are not able to be modified or adjusted after purchase. They are also made for the average foot, which does not work for everyone. If you are looking for long-term support that is tailored to your foot, custom is the way to go. 

If you are considering an orthotic, have questions or concerns, or are having issues with your insole consult your podiatrist or care provider. 

How the Physicians Footcare Team Can Help

Orthotics should be prescribed and customized by a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist or Certified Pedorthist. Our team of dedicated podiatrists collaborates seamlessly with our esteemed Certified Pedorthists (CPeds), who leverage their extensive training to expertly manage the fitting, adjusting, modification, or fabrication of insoles and other orthotics. At the forefront of orthotic solutions, CPeds are uniquely equipped to address your specific needs, ensuring a tailored approach to maximize stability, enhance mobility, and provide effective pain relief. Trust in the expertise of our CPeds as they work hand in hand with our podiatric team to help you regain and maintain optimal foot health, ensuring every step is a stride towards comfort and well-being.

When orthotics are used correctly they can significantly contribute to your overall foot health and comfort. They are specifically known to correct misalignments, alleviate pain, improve stability, and prevent further complications. If you have questions regarding orthotics and whether or not they would work for you please contact one of the Physicians Footcare offices. We have several podiatry offices located throughout South Carolina and Georgia, and one of our expert podiatrists or Certified Pedorthists would be happy to serve you.