Orthotics are prescribed and worn for a variety of reasons. They are also known as insoles, shoe inserts or orthoses.
The most common reasons orthotics are recommended are:
- Arch and heel pain (Plantar Fasciitis)
- Lower leg tendonitis (Achilles tendonitis and posterior tibial tendon dysfunction)
- Shin splints
- Knee pain, such as chondromalacia patellae, iliotibial band syndrome (Runners knee)
- Leg length discrepancy
- Low back pain
Orthotics work by improving foot efficiency, lower limb alignment, therefore reducing stress on the problem area resulting in pain relief.
Although some people adapt to orthotics very quickly, you should gradually adjust to them by wearing them for a few hours more each day. You should avoid using them for extended activity, including sports, until you feel fully comfortable.
They should be comfortable and used whenever you are doing the activity that would normally aggravate your condition. If you need orthotics, they can improve your overall comfort in your lower limbs and feet.
We are able tosses whether you’d benefit from orthotics by combining our knowledge & expertise of injury and how the foot and ankle works with a dynamic computerised foot scan. Following this we can make appropriate recommendations based on your individual case and circumstances.