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Do you have problems with flat feet, lower back pain, ankle pain, runner's knee, neuromas or plantar fasciitis? If you do, your podiatrist may recommend proper orthotics for your feet. Orthotic devices come in many shapes, sizes and materials to help alleviate your foot ailments. They also fall under three different categories, which include: rigid, soft and semi-rigid orthotics. Orthotics allow people to stand, walk, and run more efficiently and comfortably than they have previously. What are Orthotics? Orthotics are used to alter or modify foot function and are designed to treat, adjust, and support various biomechanical foot disorders. The most effective are custom-made orthotics, which are created to meet the specific needs of an individual's foot shape and problem. Your podiatrist prescribes orthotics as a conservative approach to many foot problems or as a method of control after certain types of foot surgery. Orthotics are shoe inserts that serve the purpose of correcting an abnormal walking pattern. By slightly altering the angles at which the foot strikes a walking or running surface, orthotics make standing, walking, and running more comfortable and efficient. Rigid Orthotics With rigid orthotic devices, function is controlled and is primarily used for walking or with dress shoes. Rigid orthotic devices are typically made of a firm material, such as plastic or carbon fiber to effectively support your feet. Your podiatrist will take a mold of your foot using a plaster cast or another kind of image of your foot in order to create your orthotic. Using a rigid orthotic device will control motion and may improve or eliminate strains, aches, and pains in the feet, legs, thighs and lower back. These are long lasting, do not change shape and are usually difficult to break. Soft Orthotics Generally used to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots, soft orthotics are usually effective for diabetic, arthritic, and deformed feet. Soft orthotics are typically made up of soft, cushioned materials so that they can be worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel past the ball of the foot and including the toes. Semi-Rigid Orthotics Semi-rigid orthotic devices provide dynamic balance of the foot while walking or participating in sports, or other various physical activities. This helps to guide the foot through proper functions, allowing the muscles and tendons to perform more efficiently. It is constructed of layers of soft material and reinforced with rigid materials. Dr. Scott Basinger, your podiatrist in Charlotte, can effectively evaluate the lower extremity as a whole in order to provide for appropriate orthotic control for foot problems. Contact your podiatrist today for an evaluation and to remain on track for healthy, pain free feet. Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Scott Basinger of Ankle and Foot Center of Charlotte, a leading podiatrist in Charlotte, NC and Charlotte. Offering a full array of services, including heel pain, orthotics, foot pain, bunions and ingrown toenails, this Charlotte and Charlotte, NC podiatrist is qualified to treat any disorder of the foot and ankle for patients of all ages.
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