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8 Signs You Need Orthotics

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When you have problems with your feet, whether it’s a pain in the foot or ankle or foot ulcers caused by diabetes, it might prevent you from enjoying the activities you love to do. But if you know the signs you need orthotics, you can change your life for the better. 

At NetStep™, we are familiar with mobility issues and are here to discuss orthotics, a non-surgical and non-invasive solution to the challenges you are experiencing with your foot and ankle.

Do you often experience pain in your feet or legs? Do you have difficulty standing or walking for extended periods? If so, you may need orthotics. Orthotics are special devices that can help the correct foot and leg alignment problems, reducing pain and improving mobility. 

Custom orthotics are inserts for your shoes – whether orthopedic or not – that support your foot arches and take the strain off your ankles, knees, hips, and lower back by preventing the arch from being lifted.

They are also called footbeds, inserts, and insoles. No matter how you refer to them, orthopedic insoles are helpful for practically everyone. 

However, some of us may benefit from orthotics more than others. Find out if orthotics would suit you as you read on to learn the typical signs you need orthotics.

Signs You Need Orthotics

1. You Have Sharp Heel Pain

Plantar fasciitis can be detected by sudden, sharp heel pain, especially in the morning—one of the signs you need orthotics. This typical foot ailment is brought on by inflammation of the plantar fascia, the broad band of tissue that extends from your heel bone to your toes.

The plantar fascia supports the foot’s arch and is a shock absorber. If you are overweight, have tight Achilles, high arches, or flat feet, spend a lot of time standing, or wear high heels, your foot is more prone to inflammation.

Adding more arch support or heel cushioning specially custom orthotics can aid in symptom relief.

2. Your Shoes Are Worn Out

The tread on your shoes wearing down more on one side than the other can indicate that your foot is rolling inward (also known as pronation) or twisting outward, even if many of the soles are already worn down (also called supination). Orthotics can help foot pronation or supination hence preventing dysfunction and joint pain.

3. You Are on Your Feet a Lot

 Plantar fasciitis, an overuse injury to the plantar fascia, can develop after spending long periods standing. A ligament called the plantar fascia runs from your heel to your toes on the bottom of your foot. This can become strained from overuse, causing heel pain and discomfort.

If you are on your feet a lot for work or play, you may need orthotics to help reduce strain on your plantar fascia and provide support.

4. You Have Had a Lower Limb Injury

Your gait may have been altered due to a recent injury to your lower limbs. Such injury can cause your foot to pronate excessively to compensate. This often happens when you have a fracture in the ankle or shin, an overstretch injury in your calf or hamstring, or a ligament tear in the knee.

It is essential to ensure that your feet are adequately supported, that you are well aligned, and that you are moving as effectively as possible. In such cases, you will require a pair of custom orthotics to help you walk and normally run again. They can also lessen the likelihood of experiencing additional discomfort or injury.

5. You Have Foot Pain or Swelling

Foot swelling or pain is also one of the signs you need orthotics, and It is time to consult a podiatrist. This is especially if you experience pain during or after everyday activities like standing or walking, as these could be signs of a more severe condition. You don’t have to put up with foot pain that isn’t essential, and orthotics could be the solution to your issue.

What happens if orthotics aren’t necessary? Your podiatrist will analyze the reason for your discomfort and recommend appropriate footwear and exercises to help you get back on track.

6. You Are Experiencing Gait Abnormalities

One of the other signs you need orthotics is gait abnormalities. Studies comparing the impact of orthotics on gait irregularities (compared to walking barefoot or wearing flat insoles) indicated that orthotics are efficient in reducing pelvic asymmetry. At NetStep™, we start with a comprehensive gait analysis. 

This analysis uses cutting-edge 3D video technology to highlight the biomechanical patterns we analyze. From there, we formulate an individualized treatment plan for remedial care, which may involve the fabrication of custom orthotics.

7. You Have Had Diabetic Food Complications

In treating diabetic foot issues, orthotics are frequently prescribed because they assist in distributing pressure more uniformly. The use of orthotics can be highly advantageous in several ways, including the correction of your gait, the provision of arch support, and the even distribution of pressure across the foot. 

This way, they can help prevent and cure discomfort and swelling, corns and calluses, and straighten your posture, which can even assist in managing back pain and headaches.

8. You Have No Arch or a High Arch on Your Foot

The arch of your foot is one part that needs support. Suppose you have very high or low arches. In that case, regular shoes may not provide the necessary stability for these vulnerable areas and can lead to pain and toe issues caused by incorrect alignment – orthotics are an affordable solution!

Take Your Next Step Safely with NetStep™ 

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms or signs we’ve outlined, it might be time to invest in a pair of custom orthotics. At NetStep™, our team can help take charge of your foot health and get you back on your feet with comfortable, supportive orthotics that will make a difference in your day-to-day life. 

NetStep™ offers an innovative new way to create custom insoles for your feet that are 100% accurate and perfect. The 3D printing technology provides unparalleled precision with every print, so you’ll never have another misaligned or too tight of a fit again!

Don’t suffer from foot pain any longer – contact us today and let us start creating the perfect pair of orthotics just for you!

Dr. Lewis

The #1 Orthotics On The Market

At NetStep™, we pride ourselves on being the leading orthotics provider in the world. We offer a wide range of products to meet the needs of all our customers, and our team of experts is always on hand to provide advice and support. Get the best possible care for your feet today. 

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