What Orthotics Can Do for You

What Orthotics Can Do for You

Dr. Alan Discont of Chandler, AZ, understands the wear and tear of daily activities on feet, let alone foot pain when someone is suffering Orthoticsfrom an injury or has some sort of a deformity. The solution is simple though: orthotics. They are a simple way to treat pain and to deal with foot deformities and medical issues like arthritis.

Orthotics are custom-made prescription medical devices placed inside shoes to correct bio-mechanical foot issues, reduce pain, and help with other medical conditions like bursitis and flat feet.

Note that there are over-the-counter foot devices, but custom-made inserts and orthotics are best.
 

What can orthotics do for you?

In addition to correcting bio-mechanical foot issues and reducing pain, orthotics also:

  • correct foot deformities
  • help the foot or ankle function better
  • provide support at the ankle
  • reduce further injuries

Orthotics can also help treat many conditions or at least ease a person's discomfort. Here are a few illnesses it can help with:

  • Arthritis
  • Back pain
  • Bunions
  • Bursitis
  • Diabetes
  • Flat feet
  • Hammer toes
  • Heel spurs
  • High arches
  • Injuries
  • Plantar fasciitis

 

What are some steps to getting proper orthotics?

Your Chandler, AZ, podiatrist needs to first examine feet. Dr. Disont does this by taking 3D images of each foot and inspect anatomical foot features by watching you walk. He'll note how feet, ankles, legs, and hips move while you're walking to determine if there are any observable problems.

Then he'll make a precise mold of your feet so a custom orthotics device can be made.
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What types of orthotics exist?

Rigid orthotics or functional orthotics: This orthotic device is made of plastic or carbon fiber, which is more suitable for walking or dress shoes (shoes with closed toes and low heels). Their main function is to ease foot aches and strains in legs, thighs, and the lower back.

Soft orthotics or accommodative orthotics: This orthotic device is made of soft compression materials that cushion feet to relieve pressure off sore spots caused by certain foot diseases like foot ulcers. Soft orthotics are bulky and often require special shoes to accommodate them, so be sure to speak with your podiatrist about that.

If you have any questions about orthotics and if they're a good choice for you, then speak with your Chandler, AZ, podiatrist, Dr. Alan Discont, today!