Choosing a custom orthotic can be one of the best decisions you decide to make. You can get rid of all your foot problems while getting some relief from the sore feet and other pains that you need to deal with on a regular basis. Many patients will choose to get the custom orthotics because it allows them to get some relief without needing surgery.
Before you run out and pick a pair or orthotics, you need to spend some time looking at all of the different choices and decide which ones are right for you. With so many options to go with, you may feel a little lost on where to begin. Some of the tips that you can use to help you find the perfect custom orthotic for your flat feet includes:
Understand Your Needs
The first thing that you need to do when picking out custom orthotics for your feet is to understand your personal needs with an orthotic. Many of the orthotics that you can choose over the counter may be comfortable, but since they are not specifically designed to help your unique foot, they will just cover up the problem instead of solving it.
The type of orthotic that you will need does depend on the foot situation that you encounter. For example, if you have plantar fasciitis, which will mean that the connective tissue between the sole of the foot and the heel is inflamed, then you will want to go with an orthotic that will provide a good deal of support.
On the other hand, you will need to go with a firm orthotic to provide the support that you have when there is overpronation in the foot to provide more stability to the ankle. And orthotics with a lot of cushioning for heel discomfort will help with the pain and swelling. Some orthotics are designed to encourage more blood circulation for diabetes as well.
You may need to work with your doctor to determine which type of orthotic is going to be the right one for you. They will be able to do a thorough assessment of your foot and common foot problem and then design an orthotic that will fit and provide some of the relief that you need.
Wear the Right Shoes
When you go in to get the orthotics fitted for you, it is important to wear a good pair of shoes. This will ensure that you are as comfortable as possible when you wear the orthotics later on. Although the orthotics can be customized to suit your feet, they need to also function with your shoes to give the best support and treatment for your foot and ankle.
Bring along the pair of shoes that you will wear the most often when using the orthotics. While it is possible to move the orthotics around to other shoes on occasion when needed, you need them to fit as comfortably as possible in the shoes that you will wear the most often. Bring them along to ensure you get the best treatment possible.
Figure Out Your Type of Foot
Think about how much support you will need in the orthotic that you choose. Orthotics are going to come in two basic categories. They will either be soft and accommodating for your feet, or they will be hard and functional. Both will have benefits and drawbacks based on what you need the most.
If you would like to reduce some of the discomfort that you feel in the lower back, thighs, legs, and foot, then you need to go with the rigid orthotics to give you that support. If you need to have some additional cushioning in your orthotic, then you can go with a soft orthotic instead. Those are more likely to be used for foot ulcers and bunions.
In some cases, you will need an orthotic that falls somewhere in the middle. You can go into a professional to have them take a look at your foot and see what orthotic you will need. During that time, they will check your gait to see what works, scan your feet, and then create a great orthotic with the help of 3D printing technology.
Choosing the Right Custom Orthotic for Flat Feet
Orthotics can be one of the best gifts that you give to your feet. They can provide a lot of comfort and ensure that you will be able to get rid of some of the aches and pains that you have in your feet. When you are ready to see whether orthotics are the right choice for you, follow the tips above to pick our the right custom orthotics for your flat feet.
