Sometimes, a small step in the right direction ahead of time makes all the difference further down the road. This proves particularly true with custom orthotics, custom shoe inserts beloved by patients and podiatrists alike.
These sole savers aren’t just for comfort; they’re powerful tools for preventing, treating, and managing a range of podiatric conditions. Atlantic Foot & Ankle Specialists is a practice committed to patient education, so we’ve put together this blog post in the hopes that it can guide you toward better biomechanics and fitter feet.
Prevention
Custom orthotics aren’t just for existing problems. By providing proper support and alignment, they can prevent a host of issues before they even start, including:
- Plantar fasciitis: Orthotics support the arch, reducing strain on the plantar fascia and preventing that agonizing ache in your heel.
- Shin splints: Repetitive stress is no match for the right inserts. Orthotics control pronation and distribute weight evenly, protecting your shins from painful inflammation.
- Bunions and hammertoes: These uncomfortable deformities can worsen over time, becoming painful and quite inconvenient. Custom orthotics slow their progression and can even prevent the need for surgery.
Treatment
If you’re already battling podiatric conditions, custom orthotics can help:
- Arthritis: Orthotics can ease pain and increase stability in arthritic joints, improving mobility and comfort.
- Diabetic foot complications: By optimizing pressure distribution and preventing friction, orthotics help protect diabetic feet from ulcers and other complications.
- Postural problems: Orthotics can address imbalances that contribute to poor posture, alleviating back pain, preventing falls, and improving overall alignment.
Management
Even for chronic conditions, custom orthotics offer valuable support:
- Neuropathy: By reducing pressure points and providing sensory feedback, orthotics can improve balance and stability for individuals with nerve damage.
- Foot and ankle injuries: From sprains to fractures, orthotics can stabilize the joint, promote healing, and prevent re-injury.
- Sports performance: Athletes can optimize their performance and prevent injuries with orthotics designed for their specific sport and foot mechanics.
At Atlantic Foot and Ankle Specialists, we provide specialized, compassionate service to all patients. Melissa Robitaille, DPM, and Todd Newsom, DPM, offer the finest orthotic inserts and the best in leading-edge technology. Contact our office in Chatham County at (912) 988-3323 to make an appointment today!