Painful feet

You only have one pair of feet and if they are in good working order they can take you everywhere. So it makes good sense to take good care of them.

Unfortunately many people don’t give their feet a second thought, unless they are causing pain.

Most foot pain is the result of a faulty relationship between the bones and muscles of the foot. Even the slightest misalignment of the bones and muscles can cause a lot of discomfort. Misalignment can result in a number of problems, such as pronation, flat feet, persistant ankle sprains, bunions, corns, calluses, even back and neck pain.

But there is something that can help these problems, something better than warm water in a tub, or putting your feet up for awhile. The answer is prescription orthoses.

What are orthoses?

Sometimes orthoses may be known as arch supports, but they are really much more than that. Prescription orthoses are custom-made to correct your individual foot problems. They are made of high-impact materials, such as plastic and super-strength woven fibres, and they are designed to be inserted right into your shoes.

The most important feature of a pair of orthoses is that they are made specifically for your feet. You and someone else may have a similar foot problem, but your feet are unique. They’re not like anyone elses. That’s why the best orthoses are custom made.Once orthoses are slipped inside your shoes, they fit comfortably to your foot. So comfortably, in fact, that once you start wearing them you won’t want to walk without them again.

How do they work?

As your foot rests on the orthotic it is gently and consistently directed into the correct position for walking, running and standing. With a pair of orthoses, pressure points, improper rotation of the foot, and painful muscle strain are all eliminated because your foot is functioning properly.

How are orthoses made?

First you must be fitted for them. Your podiatrist gives you a complete examination and determines your particular foot problem. A 3-dimentional scan is taken of your feet while in your neutral foot position.  The scans and your personal prescription are sent to the orthotic laboratory where they are used to produce your orthoses. Here, technicians, following your podiatrist’s specifications, add special heel lifts, or build-ups to customise an orthotic to correct your specific problem. The laboratory sends them back to your podiatrist and then they’re ready for fitting.

How long will I have to wear them?

Orthoses rarely cure your foot problem. They work on the same principle as glasses. An eye specialist may prescribe glasses for you, but they won’t cure your vision problems. Instead, orthoses simply modify the function of your foot as you continue to wear them. However, in some young patients, the early use of prescription orthoses before the body is fully developed may actually correct a foot problem. Or at least, they can ensure that the problem does not develop further. In other words, you’ll need to wear orthoses as long as you want to avoid discomfort.

Remember your feet are the foundation for your entire body. Obtaining and consistently wearing orthoses can be the best investment you can make in your overall wellbeing.

Talk to your podiatrist

Half of your foot problem is already over. You accomplished that just by coming in to have your feet examined. Now the other half is treating the problem. Orthoses may be what your podiatrist prescribes.

Our orthoses are made by prescription only and designed for you and your particular foot problem. Warning! Many imitations are sold over the counter by sport shops and pharmacies. Genuine orthoses are prescription medical devices which correct your abnormal foot function and minimise your foot problem