Crocs are the ideal substitute for those who would have otherwise gone barefoot on the beach, around the pool, and in the yard. Beyond this, different classes of individuals have started wearing these shoes, making it acceptable for them to be used at shopping centers and supermarkets. 

But are they good for your feet? Some people think airwalks are suitable for your feet, while others believe they can be harmful. Let’s take a closer look at Crocs and see if they’re good for your feet.

Are Crocs Good Shoes From An Ergonomic Point of View?

Putting aside differences in taste, are crocs comfortable to wear ergonomically? It’s difficult to say; eventually, it comes down to your actions. You must wear proper shoes for the correct function.

These shoes are rugged, as anyone who owns a pair can agree. Because they are composed of closed-cell resin, a specialized material, airwalks are waterproof, light, non-marking, and simple to clean. Additionally, it gives them the plush, cozy feel that fans adore.

However, before deciding to wear them, as with any shoe truly, you must think about your plans for the day. Airwalks are not always appropriate, for instance, if you’re going to Disney World, where you’ll be strolling around and on your feet all day. However, if you’re running errands or making a quick trip to the grocery store, then definitely, without a doubt.

While airwalks are well-known for their wide fit, providing your tiny piggies enough room, they can also lead to foot health issues. You would be better off skipping the Croc wave if you have a foot problem like hyperhidrosis, are elderly, or know your feet usually require extra arch or heel support. These shoes are not suitable for people with sweaty feet. Because they are made of a nonporous substance, your feet will perspire, but the sweat won’t evaporate because it will just sit there.

The Problem with Wearing Crocs All Day

Crocs are wonderful shoes because of their lightweight, comfort, and ease of slipping on and off. They are breathable, stimulate blood flow, and have enough space to prevent toe compression. They were first intended to be waterproof boating shoes with foamy materials and non-slip soles. 

They are made for temporary use and make an excellent choice for the beach, pool, or water park. But nowadays, airwalks are worn everywhere, often all day long, including in malls, hospitals, and play areas. 

According to podiatrists interviewed by The Huffington Post, Crocs’ sole and heel pad are under additional stress when they aren’t used as intended. Lack of support would force the toes to grip, worsening preexisting conditions or causing tendonitis. Additionally, you can get calluses, corns, or other toe deformities.

Advantages of Wearing Crocs

You can’t dispute how comfy the shoes are, regardless of how you feel about them. Crocs are the ideal footwear choice for you if you require some cushioning or shock absorption. As we age, we lose fat in our feet because our collagen begins to deteriorate. Therefore, Crocs will be comfortable for those who require the extra cushion. Because they are so roomy, Crocs may be a godsend for people with swollen feet, such as people with diabetes and pregnant women.

And although the wide-fit shape may turn off some people, the ease with which you can glide into them is a significant selling factor. Crocs are practical for those who can’t stoop or have other mobility limitations.

Last but not least, you should wear Crocs if you’re still working from home and simply need to upgrade your house slipper collection because you won’t be performing any strenuous walking. Moreover, exercise particular caution if you walk quickly or have young children in your home because, once again, their wide fit could send you flying.

Ideal Time for Wearing Crocs

Even when worn incorrectly, airwalks still aid in removing plantar pain and any arch problems. This is accomplished via the supportive arch and padded heels of this casual footwear. By giving your toes room to flex while you walk, they also reduce compression of the toes. Without a doubt, airwalks are the best option for temporary use and will aid you with any foot problems. Crocs can cause greater foot problems if you wear them for an extended time.

What Are Some Alternatives To Crocs?

So you need something with a little more heel and arch support but still want the comfort of Crocs? There are specific alternatives that are less dangerous. Any shoes with memory foam are something to consider since it cradles [the foot] if you’re looking for anything with shock absorption. 

If you’re looking for something lightweight, carbon-plated running shoes or sneakers like Hokas are incredibly light while still being supportive. You can also opt for NetStep custom insoles, making your shoes more comfortable all day.

Can You Put Orthotics in Crocs?

Yes. Because of their deep insoles, which ideally accommodate orthotic inserts, airwalks are among the shoes that can be worn with orthotics. Because of their deep insole and footbed, all Crocs clogs can be used with an orthotic insert explicitly made for them.

The individualized orthotic inserts can be worn in a variety of shoes. However, orthotic inserts can be worn with airwalks footwear. When worn with orthotic inserts, airwalks are comfortable and fit well. The excellent arch support of Crocs shoes makes them ideal for usage with orthotic inserts.

The deeper and softer insole of Crocs shoes makes them incredibly pleasant for orthotics. Because of the deep insole of the Crocs shoes, you would experience comfort in your feet when wearing them with orthotics. If you have foot problems, Crocs are a suitable shoe to wear with orthotic inserts.

Find Your Perfect Insole with NetStep™

Crocs may be the perfect shoe for summer, but they’re not always so comfortable in the winter. Luckily, NetStep™ has got you covered with a wide range of custom orthotics to keep your feet happy all year round. Whether you’re looking for arch support or something to combat foot fatigue, we’ve got the perfect insoles for you. So don’t suffer through another cold winter – find your ideal pair of insoles today and stay cozy all season long!

And suppose your weight is balanced poorly enough while standing in one place for an extended period; this can be harmful too. It might even cause pain throughout all body parts due to the body’s imbalance between muscles inside and outside.

So, what is a stone bruise, and what can you do about it? While it’s not always possible to prevent a stone bruise, there are some things you can do to help reduce the chances of developing one and speed up the healing process if you get one. Keep reading to learn more.

What Risk Factors Exist for a Stone Bruise?

Some people are more prone than others to developing a stone bruise or to experiencing pain that is more severe or persistent.

Athletes are prone to having stone bruises, but this injury is more likely to occur in any physical activity involving repeated, forceful foot strikes from running or jumping. Because frequent running can lead to pain and injury, we constantly emphasize the importance of adequate conditioning.

However, the likelihood of stone bruising can be increased by additional internal and intrinsic causes. The distribution of weight and forces across each foot can be altered by structural abnormalities like flat feet or high arches, which can result in extra pressure and an increased risk of injuries in specific locations.

Other factors to consider include:

• Medical Conditions

Degenerative illnesses like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, as well as toe abnormalities like bunions, can all impact the foot’s structure, making it more vulnerable to stone bruises and other related injuries.

• Poor Footwear

This can include high heels that put too much pressure on the front of the foot or athletic shoes whose supporting qualities have worn out.

• Aging

As you age, there appears to be less of a protective fat pad at the bottom of the foot.

• Excess Weight

With extra weight, the feet are subjected to greater pressure with each step.

Self Diagnosis

The self-diagnosis of a stone bruise is usually relatively safe, especially if the incident that caused it is remembered. Nonetheless, a stone bruise can be confused with other more severe conditions, including the following:

1. Heel Spur – A painful bony growth that appears around the heel bone and is frequently caused by uncomfortable footwear.
2. Metatarsalgia – Pain in the ball of the foot, which often affects the metatarsals, the bones connecting the ankle bones to the toes.
3. Morton’s Neuroma – A painful condition that affects the ball of the foot and is often caused by pressure or injury from running or wearing high heels.
4. Plantar Fasciitis – One of the leading causes of heel pain is caused by various factors such as types of walking surfaces, foot structure, or type of shoes. 
5. Stress Fracture – A fracture of the bone often caused by repeated mechanical stress. 

If the pain is severe or if you routinely have stone bruises and the pain does not lessen with rest and care, you should always get your foot checked out by a skilled podiatrist to ensure there is nothing wrong with your foot that requires specialized treatment. You should also check for any redness, swelling, or discomfort.

How to Treat a Stone Bruise

What is a stone bruise, and what can you do about it? RICE, or rest, ice, compression, and elevation, is a simple treatment that works well for stone bruises in most situations. Within a week, the pain and swelling are likely to lessen.

But it’s time to call the doctor if the pain doesn’t go away or just keeps happening. Maybe your stone bruise is something else, like stress fractures along the bone, and not a stone bruise. Rest will also be necessary for this condition, although another strategy might also be required.

A change or solution is required if you consistently get stone bruising or other foot and heel pain. Custom orthotics may be advised to offer precise cushioning and support where needed, eliminating extra stress where it shouldn’t be if the foot has an underlying structural issue. Modifications to one’s training regimen or footwear may be part of such therapy strategies.

How Can Insoles Help To Treat And Prevent Stone Bruises?

Stone bruises are common among people who don’t give their feet and ankles enough support and engage in activities that stress their lower limbs, such as running on rough, uneven terrain. For anyone who commonly experiences stone bruises or other foot-related ailments, insoles are a godsend because they are made to give extra cushioning and support to your feet.

Custom insoles are available in a range of different thicknesses and styles, but they all work to:

1. Stabilize the ankle joint
2. Support the foot arch
3. Improve foot function
4. Reduce pressure on the metatarsal bones
5. Correct overpronation or supination

Take Every Step with NetStep™

What is a stone bruise, and what can you do about it? If it feels like you’re treading on a rock, and the pain is concentrated in the ball of your foot or pad of your heel, you might have a stone bruise. You may also have other conditions like metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, heel spur, stress fracture, or Morton’s neuroma.

If you are feeling this pain, you should try to get off your feet and keep the affected foot elevated as much as possible. If the pain intensity does not reduce after a few days, you should make an appointment with your primary care physician for a complete diagnosis, which may include an X-ray.

Stone bruises can be a nuisance, but they don’t have to keep you from living your life. You can continue dancing, running, and jumping without worry with the proper treatment and prevention methods. 

NetStep™ has the perfect solution for you. Our insoles are designed to help prevent stone bruises and speed up healing time if you suffer from one.  With NetStep™, you can get custom orthotics to make your life easier. The first step is answering a short questionnaire that assesses each patient’s needs, so they receive only those insoles explicitly designed for their feet! 

Don’t let a stone bruise hold you back; take every step with NetStep™. Enjoy every step with high-quality and comfy custom insoles because it’s time you stop struggling through your day without feeling discomfort or pain to do what needs doing – moving around comfortably.

While they can be irritating and painful, blisters are common and usually harmless. So read on to learn everything you need to know about how to prevent and treat blisters! In this post, we’ll discuss how to prevent and treat blisters so you can enjoy a healthy foot all day.

What Causes Blisters?

Blisters can develop for several reasons, including certain disorders. The most typical blister types include:

1. Blood blisters: When anything pinches your skin, blood blisters may form. Blood floods the area in place of the clear liquid due to the skin’s deeper layers being damaged and broken blood vessels. A blister is created when the blood gathers around a single spot. 
2. Heat blisters: These blisters can result from sunburns or burns. They might also develop when you recover from frostbite. Blistering skin is a sign of a second-degree burn.
3. Friction blisters: Friction blisters develop when a clear fluid accumulation occurs in the top layers of skin and are brought on by rubbing on the skin. Many people develop friction blisters from excessive walking in ill-fitting footwear or by forgoing socks. They can also spread to your hands when you hold objects like shovels or other equipment.

Tips to Prevent and Treat Blisters

There are many ways to keep your feet from hurting, but if you want to prevent and treat blisters, there’s something that can often help. Follow these tips and tricks for a more comfortable journey!

• Lubricate your feet before you exercise. Blisters are caused by friction. Thus, lowering friction can aid in blister prevention. On sore areas, apply petroleum jelly or other lubricants made for runners.
• Wear better shoes. When blisters develop on your foot, shoes are often to blame. Avoid wearing shoes that cause your feet to itch or cramp. The ideal footwear may make a world of difference. You can get blisters the first few times you wear new shoes. As you break in a fresh pair, go slowly and comfortably.
• Wear better socks. Pick breathable non-cotton socks to keep your feet dry. Double up on your socks if you know you’ll be engaging in activities that could cause blisters. While the other layer provides more padding, the first layer will absorb moisture.

Although more expensive, double-layer socks might prevent blisters. Change your socks halfway during a long run or trek or whenever they start to get wet. Even though good socks can be pricey, they are worthwhile if they prevent blisters from forming.

• Keep your feet dry. In addition to changing your socks frequently, you can help moisture absorption by adding cornstarch or talcum powder to your shoes and socks. Take a moment midway through your event to add extra powder if you’re traveling a long distance.
• Cover areas that are prone to blister. You should pad blister-prone regions, just as you would if a blister had already formed there. The additional layer of defense works to stop blisters from forming.
• Keep the calluses. Although they are tempted to remove or pumice down, calluses serve a protective purpose for your feet.
• Use foot powders: Foot blisters can become more painful and aggravated by friction. Purchase a foot powder from a pharmacy to lessen friction on blisters. Before putting on your shoes, pour them into socks to ease discomfort. Stop applying a powder if it irritates blisters.
• Use custom orthotics. Designed to fit inside shoes, orthotic devices are made of molded rubber, leather, or other material. Your podiatrist can make orthotic devices just for you. Blisters on the feet can be avoided and treated with orthotic equipment. Orthotic devices help lessen pain and reduce friction on blisters on your feet.

How to Treat a Blister

A natural barrier to microorganisms may be created by intact skin over a blister, reducing the likelihood of infection. Keep the blister intact if it isn’t too uncomfortable. Use moleskin or bandage to protect it.

To encircle and shield the blister, cut a piece of moleskin into the shape of a doughnut. Gauze should then be placed over the blister and moleskin.

When a blister becomes infected, seek medical attention. If you want to prevent and treat blisters, ensure you get a doctor’s appointment, especially if you have diabetes or poor circulation.

Drain the fluid from the blister while keeping the surrounding skin undamaged to ease the pain it is causing. Here’s how:

• Wash your hands and the blister with soap and warm water.
• Swab the blister with iodine. 
• Clean a sharp needle with rubbing alcohol. 
• Use the needle to prick the blister in several spots near the edge. Let the fluid drain, but leave the overlying skin in place.
• Apply an ointment, such as petroleum jelly, and cover it with a nonstick gauze bandage. Stop using the ointment if a rash develops.
• Every day, check the region for infections. After a few days, remove the dead skin using tweezers and scissors that have been sanitized with rubbing alcohol. Put on a bandage and extra cream.

Invest in Custom Orthotics from NetStep™

Blisters can be a real pain, both literally and figuratively. They often slow us down when we’re training for a race or out on a long hike, and they can be extremely frustrating. But with the right prevention techniques and treatment plan, you can quickly prevent and treat blisters if you get them.

We hope this article has given you some good tips on how to prevent and treat blisters. If not, don’t worry – NetStep™ is here to help! Our team of experts can create custom orthotics that will support your feet in all the right places, preventing blisters from forming in the first place.

Our custom orthotics collection comes in a variety, depending on your personal needs. Whether it’s sports insoles, therapeutic insoles, or lifestyle orthotics, we have them! We also offer a free insole fitting diagnosis that helps you identify the point of pain and shoes you wear so we can provide you with the right insoles you need.

What are you waiting for? Contact us and get started on your journey to better foot health today!

Inflammation of the thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot, known as the plantar fascia, is the cause of the painful condition known as plantar fasciitis. Specifically, this tissue attaches the toes to the heel bone. Often, patients with this illness report acute pain. It’s usually most evident with the first steps in the morning. A better understanding of pressure sites for plantar fasciitis may provide a better level of alleviation and possibly prevent the development of those painful steps.

Research shows that an incredible 90% of Plantar Fasciitis cases are self-limiting. With 6 months of conservative treatment (including stretching, icing, and orthotic insoles for Plantar Fasciitis), the condition will significantly improve or be fully resolved!

This post will show you pressure points for plantar fasciitis and how you can use these tips to relieve the pain. 

Two primary pain relief techniques can be used to relieve plantar fasciitis pain: 

1. Myofascial Trigger Point Manual Therapy
2. Basic Stretches

Myofascial Trigger Point Manual Therapy

1. Pressure Release Technique

Plantar discomfort is typically caused by a trigger point that is located on the inside aspect of the portion of the calf that contains the most meat. Sit down with one foot resting on the knee of the opposite leg, and use your thumbs to apply pressure all around the area until you locate a knot or a particularly tight spot. Maintain the pressure there for one minute and a half, move your thumbs apart five centimeters to release the pressure, and then do this three more times. This ought to loosen up those stiff muscles.

2. Neuromuscular Technique

Your foot feels pain because of a taut band, a tight cluster of muscle fibers running down the interior of your calf. This band runs from the trigger point. Sit down with one leg crossed over the other and lay your foot on the opposite knee. Place the thumb of the hand on the opposite side of your body on the base of the taut band at your ankle. The palm of your other hand should be pressed firmly on your ankle, and your fingers should be wrapped around it. Put some pressure on it with your thumb, then slowly work your way up the surface while following it with the other hand. It should be repeated three times.

Basic Stretches

1. Plantar Fascia Stretch

Place one knee on the ground, and the other knee should be facing upward. Pulling your foot in the direction of your shin while maintaining pressure under your big toe allows you to massage the plantar fascia. When performing a massage, it is essential to “rub towards the heel” to prevent irritating the tissue.

2. Step Stretch

Relax your Achilles tendon by allowing your heels to drop and feeling the stretch in that tendon. Place the balls of your feet on the back edge of the step you are standing on and ensure that your legs are straight. Then, gently lean forward until you feel a stretch in your Achilles tendon and hold for 30 seconds. Repeat the exercise with your legs bent slightly to work the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles.

3. Gastrocnemius Stretch

You should face a wall and lean against it with your hands, so they are at eye level. Move one of your legs behind you while keeping the heel of that foot on the ground and the foot twisted slightly inwards. Maintain the straight position of that leg as you lean forward gradually. Then, when you cannot lean further, hold the position for 30 seconds. Relax and repeat with the other leg.

4. Soleus Stretch

Repeat the stretch for your gastrocnemius muscle, but this time bend your back leg and your front leg while maintaining the heel of your back leg down on the floor. The tiny soleus muscle, which lies underneath the larger gastrocnemius muscle, gets stretched.

Also, stretching your Achilles tendon and calf muscles can help. To do this, stand with your feet flat on the ground and your heels touching. Slowly raise up onto your toes, holding the stretch for 30 seconds. Repeat this exercise several times.

How Orthotics Can Help Relieve Plantar Fasciitis

The mechanics of your foot, while you walk or stand, can play a role in the development of plantar fasciitis. The issue is more likely to affect those with either abnormally high or low arches. These arch issues lead to misalignments in your gait, which, over time, lead to dysfunction in the biomechanics of your foot.

The use of orthotics can assist in restoring ideal mechanics, which can relieve stress on the plantar fascia and, as a result, lessen discomfort and pain over time.

However, treating your plantar fasciitis using orthotics that may be purchased over-the-counter will not be successful. At NetStep™, we make custom orthotics that conform to the precise dimensions of your foot and consider the specific anomalies in the shape of your heel.

It is possible to prevent heel spurs, bunions, and plantar fasciitis by using a well-made custom orthotic, which will disperse the pressure applied to your foot, reducing the amount of stress that is placed on your heel.

Step Forward To A Pain-Free Life with NetStep™ Custom Insoles

Plantar fasciitis pain can keep you from living your life to the fullest. But you can take steps to get relief, like using pressure points and orthotics. If you’re looking for a step forward in your treatment plan, NetStep™ Custom Insoles can help. Our insoles are made just for you, based on the results of your foot scan.

We know that one size does not fit all when it comes to feet, so our team takes the time to craft every insole according to your specific needs. We use modern 3D technology to custom make the orthotic insoles using EVA materials so you can lead a pain-free life.  Don’t let plantar fasciitis keep you from doing what you love – try NetStep™ Custom Insoles today!

You are more affected than you may know by worn-out, broken, and damaged shoe insoles. The continual pressure of walking daily has eliminated the support you once valued and cherished.  Your knees are beginning to misalign, your hips are tight, and you’re starting to feel a dull ache in your lower back and mild pain in the arch of your foot.

In addition to keeping your feet in perfect shape, shoe insoles cushion your steps and help support your arches. That’s why it’s vital to ensure that your shoes are in good condition, including replacing your shoe insoles when they start to wear out. 

But, how do you know when it’s time to replace them? This blog post will discuss the signs that indicate when to replace your shoe insoles. So, read on to learn more!

1. They’ve Lost Their Color

It may be time for new shoe insoles if the general appearance is noticeably different from when you first purchased them. This can entail leaving a noticeable mark from your foot on the insole or wearing the logo off the heel. 

Like an old rusty car, there may simply be the surface that appears to be aged, but there is generally more going on underneath. Visible wear on your insole’s surface indicates that the foam padding and internal support systems are starting to break down.

 2. There Is Visible Wear Or Damage

You’ll notice a few things when you look at your shoe insoles, some of which are purely aesthetic and others structural. The damage to the structure is what we’re searching for in this second tip.

First, the top layer will experience cosmetic wear and tear. The integrity of the rig is at risk if you observe that the pattern has begun to rub or wear off. 

Second, when the pressure from your heel or ball of foot centralizes on the bottom of the insole, you might observe that the color has started to fade. This is also acceptable and to be expected with daily use. 

But you should be searching for cracks, broken parts, or if the arch is becoming more flexible (I.e., not giving the same level of support). You will know when to replace your insoles if you discover any cracking.

3. They Produce An Unpleasant Odor

Your feet will inevitably perspire if you lead an active lifestyle or play high-impact sports. However, you will know when to replace your shoe insoles if they continue to smell bad after removing your shoes; this may indicate that moisture has become trapped inside the insole. Unpleasant smells may also indicate bacteria or fungus, which raises your risk of infection or other foot issues.

4. Your Foot Or Knee Pain Has Returned

You will know when to replace your shoe insoles if you’re experiencing back, foot, ankles, or knee pain. The purpose of custom insoles is to relieve discomfort rather than induce it, which is the exact opposite of what they accomplish. Standing, running, or even jumping should not cause you pain. Calluses and corns, indicators that your feet have been rubbing inside your shoe, should not hurt your feet.

5. They’ve Become Flat

How else do you know when to replace your shoe insoles? It’s time to change your insoles when they become compressed after prolonged use and no longer maintain their original density or form.  Compression is the most subtle indication that your insoles need to be replaced. 

Before your insoles become flat, you’ll probably notice some additional signs, such as the insoles appearing old and misalignment of your shoe soles. This is what happens when your shoes no longer provide adequate support for your feet. The best way to avoid this is to change your insoles every six months or as needed.

6. You Have Used The Insoles For A Long Time

For what reason do you wear your insoles? Is the answer to running long distances every other day as part of your half-marathon training, or are you wearing them for everyday activities like walking around during your lunch break at work? 

Simply put, if you use them for daily tasks instead of preparing to be the next Usain Bolt, they won’t wear out nearly as quickly. Running, for instance, degrades your insoles more rapidly than wearing them all day at work. 

7. There Has Been A Change In Your Lifestyle

Last but not least, have you made any notable adjustments to your lifestyle? For instance, new shoe insoles can be required if you underwent knee surgery or got pregnant to account for the changes to your body.  Your biomechanics may change due to these medical concerns, possibly making your insoles obsolete.

Also, if you’ve suddenly changed your activity level, this is another sign to know when to replace your shoe insoles. For example, going from a sedentary lifestyle to running every day will put different demands on your feet than what they’re used to. In this case, supportive shoe insoles can make all the difference between enjoying your new workout routine or dealing with constant pain.

Find the Perfect Insoles with NetStep™!

When it comes to your health, you can never be too careful. We hope our tips have helped you learn more about when to replace shoe insoles. We want you to feel confident and comfortable in your shoes, so finding the perfect pair of insoles is key! Luckily, NetStep™ has got you covered. 

They say that all orthotics are not created equal. But at NetStep™, we believe you should be able to customize your shoes with our 3D printing or CNC technologies and designs based on the most advanced digital programs for them to fit just right!

We manufacture orthotics for various applications, from sports and athletics to everyday activities. The orthotics ease lower-body pain and encourage healthy movement.

NetStep™’s orthotics are certified by the FDA (US Food & Drug Administration) and CE (European Standards for Safety, Health, and Quality). This guarantees that you get quality shoe insoles that medical authorities have approved.

With an extensive selection of men’s and women’s insoles, we are confident that you will find the right fit for your needs. NetStep™ is here to help you achieve optimal foot health!

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!

So, what causes heel spur pain? What are the symptoms? Can it be avoided? What treatments are available? And how does wearing the right customized orthotics help?

What is a foot spur?

A foot spur is an inflammation that develops in the lower area of the heel, between the heel and the arch. In the past they were explained as a downwards extension of the bone in the heel. This simply isn’t true. The extension, or spur, exists normatively in some 15% of the population without causing any pain. The pain is caused by microscopic tears causing tension on the plantar ligament at the base of the foot. This ligament is a rigid, inflexible strip connecting the heel bone to the toes, and enables maintaining the foot’s proper arch. When these microscopic tears become inflamed, they lead to thickening around the ligament which in turn causes the pain known as foot spur, or plantar fasciitis.

What causes spur pain?

Several factors can cause the onset of spur pain, among them:

• Defective foot structure, such as flat foot, or cavus foot (extremely high arch)
• Wearing inappropriate shoes, especially if the soles have become misshapen or if the shoes lack arch support
• Athletes who run or jump without appropriate shock absorption
• Aging, which causes both weakening of the ligament, and loss of bone calcium
• Excess weight and obesity

Symptoms

Signs of spur pain can include:

• A sharp, knifing pain in the heel, especially when rising in the morning or after a rest
• Dull pain in the heel throughout the day
• Inflammation and swelling inside the front of the heel
• Heel sensitivity that makes walking barefoot very difficult

How is a heel spur diagnosed?

Spurs can be diagnosis by a physical examination of the foot, which includes flexing and stretching the ligament, and asking the patient to describe the pain and when it occurs.

Can spur pain be prevented?

Spur pain can be avoided by using high quality orthotics customized to provide correct foot support. Orthotics prevent the plantar ligament from stretching. Maintaining a healthy weight can also help, since excessive body weight on the heel can cause the inflammation known as “spur.”

How are spurs treated? And how do orthotics help?

Using orthotics can prevent excessive stretching of the plantar ligament, provide support along the length of the sole, and soften the tread in the heel area which becomes highly sensitive due to the spur. Orthotics also provide proper foot support, raise flatness, aligning a high arch, and correct the cavus.

When it comes to spurs, orthotics provide the foot with targeted support which prevents the ligament from stretching and promotes the healing process.

It’s also important to provide the body with additional assistive measures as far as possible, such as:

• Stretching exercises
• Physiotherapy
• Night brace
• Shock waves to the spur
• Medication based on a physician’s recommendation and prescription

In most cases people suffering with heel spurs see improvement when using these treatments. But if the problem continues, your physician might recommend surgical intervention to ease the pain and improve mobility.

And when isn’t it a spur?

In some cases what appears to be spur pain is actually coming from other factors that have nothing to do with a spur. It’s very important to identify these situations correctly and consult with a professional or physician to get the right advice.

It could seem like a spur, but might not actually be, when:

• There’s an injury to the nerve located in the upper internal heel. In this case, the pain is not from a spur and orthotics won’t help. The situation may call for surgery or cortisone injections.
• Pain appears while resting and not only when getting up from sleep. This kind of pain could indicate that you don’t have a spur.
• Psycho-emotional pressure, stress or anxiety.
• Wearing inappropriate shoes.
• Around 70 to 80 years old, the layer of fat in the heel which protects the bone begins to show damage. If this is the case, the most effective solution may be just softening the area.
• Pain derives from exerted foot stress, common to athletes who cause hairline fractures in the bone’s outer layer. These usually heal with rest.

If you’re experiencing pain in your foot, it’s time to stop suffering. Using orthotics can help solve the issue. For your free online diagnosis, click here>>

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