The podiatrists in our team are regularly asked to answer questions regarding the fitting, maintenance, and performance of orthotic devices that are fitted to the soles of your shoes.
We will attempt to address the most frequently asked queries by patients in the field of orthotics.
What Issues Or Ailments Could Be Addressed By Wearing Orthotics?
There’s a myriad of back joint pain, knee pain, heel arch pain, pain in the heel, or pain inside the big toe of your foot. In some cases, it’s more of an issue with the way you move or run than having an element of pain. To evaluate if an orthotic is best for you, it is first necessary to determine what is causing your pain or concern and this is best evaluated by our team of podiatrists.
Custom orthotics in Waterloo are used to correct and manage the biomechanics of walking, running, and standing. Our team of highly qualified podiatrists will undertake a subjective, objective, and biomechanical assessment to tailor the best possible management plan for you.
Do They Feel Uncomfortable?
The most common complaint is “I had orthotics in the past, and I couldn’t wear them because they hurt my feet”. At Restore Life Physiotherapy, we pride ourselves on making sure such a scenario is not the case. The orthoses that we make to order through 3D scans should be comfortable and simple to put on.
As with all new products, it is necessary to alter the fit, but if they’re creating pain or causing discomfort while wearing them, do not hesitate to get in touch with our staff. The theory behind this is that if you’re not able to wear an orthotic, it’s not an efficient device. We strive to design an orthotic that is practical and comfortable.
What Can I Wear? Footwear I’d Like To Wear?
Most of the time, you will be able to. Technology has improved, and our custom orthotics Waterloo has the ability to make thinner and user-friendly orthotics that can be fitted to a broad selection of types of footwear but this isn’t the case for every pair of shoes. The heels you wear to work don’t have an orthotic-friendly fit however, this doesn’t necessarily mean that you shouldn’t wear heels. Just be careful when wearing them.
Do I Have To Wear My Orthoses All Day, Every Day Of The Year?
But not all the time. In the event that they are ordered, your podiatrist may require you to wear the most you can within the first couple of weeks. When your problem is resolved and you’ve found your equilibrium, you will decide the amount you will need to wear these. In general, the 80 percent rule of thumb is to wear orthoses during work hours and for prolonged periods of walking or sitting.
Are My Orthoses Able To Be Modified?
If there are any questions, we can help you with an adjustment to the orthotic. A majority of adjustments are done on the spot at our clinics. Sometimes, more intricate adjustments could require a trip to the lab, for which we’ll send them off to a lab to be re-adjusted. If you’re having any concerns or questions concerning your orthoses, visit the clinic and talk with your doctor; it might be an easy solution.
What Makes Your Orthoses Distinct Than The Ones I Purchase From The Stores?
A podiatrist’s orthoses are typically “customized”, which means that the orthotic is custom-made for your feet. It is accomplished by using the form of a plaster cast or by using advanced technology, 3D scanning of the feet. With the feet scan, your podiatrist will also take an audio and a pressure scan to make a recommendation for your orthoses. The prescribed prescription as well as the scans will be sent off to create an orthotic designed for your feet, as well as the issue you are facing.
Custom orthotics Victoria is very different from a prefabricated orthotic. They are sold in three sizes: small, medium, and large. Pick the size that is most suited to your needs and then wear them. The orthoses are designed to fit the “normal” foot to accommodate everyone on the market. In reality, every person has their own foot (even your feet may be completely different), and to put all under one blanket doesn’t work every time.
Why Do They Get The Name “Custom” Orthoses?
“Custom orthotic” indicates the way of making the orthotic is custom to the foot of your choice. Every orthotic is created using a 3D image of your foot and can be tailored to you. Most of the time, your feet differ from one another, and definitely differ from those right next to you. Custom-designed orthoses consider this to alter how your foot moves with the floor to assist in addressing your foot or lower limb pain.
What Happens When My Orthoses Get Worn Out?
As technology advances, the lifespan of orthoses has improved significantly compared to earlier manufacturing methods. The orthoses are made out of a solid block made of polypropylene, which provides them with strength and the ability to withstand any kind of impact. The orthotic shell has been long-lasting with the normal wear and tear without replacement for between 5 and 10 years, or even more.
At Restore Life Physiotherapy, the top covering that covers the shell could require replacement each year due to the wear and tear of the material as well as a build-up of smell. This is an easy, cost-effective, simple and inexpensive procedure.
Are Orthotics Expensive?
The purchase of orthotics is an investment in your health. Every orthotic is made individually for every person, using extremely precise and cutting-edge technology. The orthotics can be bought in multiple sizes and built to last. Some components are able to be replaced when they get worn out.
Can Orthoses Help My Kids’ Feet While They Are Running?
For adults, orthoses are recommended when the leg or foot hurts. Children can find it difficult to determine since there are usually no warning signs or whining that can’t be easily communicated. If there’s a functioning inefficiency that is identified by the podiatrist or your child has difficulty maintaining their pace, is fatigued in the early years, or doesn’t enjoy sports, is slow to react are tripping or falling often, or is generally in a state of discoordination, orthoses can be recommended to increase performance for the lower limb.
Are Orthoses The Only Choice?
No. Orthoses can, however, be extremely beneficial in dealing with the most common biomechanical issues in lower limbs and are often worth a try before considering more extensive solutions like injections of steroids or surgical procedures.
In the case of example, if you are dealing with or treating the symptoms of plantar fasciitis (sore heels) and you notice over-pronation (rolling within) of the foot, the most effective way to get rid of the biomechanical issues that are the cause of this is to modify them by using orthoses.
A podiatrist can discuss the options available to you for whatever conditions of the lower limb or foot that you are suffering from. Our goal is to give you all the details you require to make an educated choice about the health of your family, and that includes making sure you’re aware of all possible options. You can ask your podiatrist concerns you might have regarding your treatment.
If you have any questions about the use of orthoses, the best way to get answers is to speak with our amazing group of podiatrists. They will evaluate your feet and determine the appropriateness of an orthotic for your needs.