There are a lot of misconceptions when it comes to orthopedic pain. In fact, it can be surprising to find that pain in your back and hips can actually be caused by issues with your footwear. Many common foot problems can actually be caused by the way you walk, the shoes you wear, or self-correcting techniques. Orthotics, or arch-support inserts for your footwear, can help treat these issues if fitted properly by a professional.
Check out these 3 common foot problems treatable by orthotics:
1. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common types of heel pain and is caused by tension or stress in the fascia – a thick band of tissue connecting your heel bone to your toes.
If you feel pain in the bottom of your foot near the heel when you wake up in the mornings, you weren’t just tense during your sleep — could have plantar fasciitis. This means that your fascia is inflamed.
While some may go directly to a drugstore for generic gel support insoles, this can actually make your issues worse, according to Lynn Schauster, PT/DPT of Affiliated Therapy in Corpus Christi, TX. “Improperly fitted insoles can actually cause you to roll out, due to poorly distributed pressure,” says Schauster. “Professionals, like those at Affiliated Therapy, can help you find the right orthotic for you.” Arch support orthotics can help distribute the pressure on your feet more evenly, helping eradicate this heel pain.
2. Flat Feet
Some people with flat feet may never notice an issue unless pain sets in. Flat feet can develop because the arches of your feet do not develop during your childhood years or due to an injury. Instead, the arches inside your feet are flattened, causing the soles of your feet to touch the floor entirely when you do activities that put pressure on your feet, like standing up.
That pressure distribution can cause pain in the ankles and knees. If that’s you, there is a way to reduce or eliminate the pain. “Going to professional physical therapists can help, because they will ensure the orthotic is doing its job and that it is helping put you back in the biomechanically correct position,” says Schauster. “They can also take a look at your gait or walk and help find a style to accommodate you.” The right orthotics, and correct shoes, can help rectify this problem by reducing symptoms and pain associated with flat feet.
3. Back and Hip Pain
You may wake up with back or hip pain and wonder if you slept funny again last night. However, have you considered that your feet are to blame? Wearing poor footwear, improperly fitted orthotics, grocery-store bought heel inserts, or using the wrong shoes to exercise in can all cause pressure to be distributed unevenly on your feet, causing this foot problem to turn into a back or hip problem.
“Speaking with a professional who understands the issue and can determine the best orthotic for your feet can make all the difference,” says Schauster. “Having a professional evaluate what shoes these orthotic inserts are being placed in is important. For instance, if you have a stability shoe already and you put an orthotic in it, it can cause more problems.”
Take an active role in your health. The professional therapists at Affiliated Therapy focus on improving the condition for which you sought assistance and motivating you to improve your future overall health and well-being. Call 361-355-4210 to make an appointment or visit Athgp.com for more information.
Corpus Christi, TX 78411
(361) 853-6100