What Does an Orthotic Do?
What Does an Orthotic Do? Insights from Physiotherapy in Newmarket
If you’ve ever experienced discomfort in your feet, legs, or lower back, you’ve likely heard about orthotics as a potential solution. But what exactly does an orthotics do, and how can it improve your overall well-being? At PhysioChiroWellness, we offer a range of services, including Physiotherapy in Newmarket, to help you achieve optimal health and comfort. Orthotics, in particular, play a critical role in correcting biomechanical issues and enhancing mobility.
Let’s dive into how orthotics work and why they might be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Understanding Orthotics: A Simple Guide
Orthotics are custom-made medical devices designed to support and align your feet, improve posture, and alleviate pain. They can be inserted into your footwear to provide additional support, correct imbalances, and reduce strain on certain parts of your body. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or recovering from an injury, orthotics can target the root cause of your discomfort and enhance your quality of life.
At our Physiotherapists in Newmarket clinic, orthotics are often recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. They work hand-in-hand with therapies like manual therapy, chiropractic care, and therapeutic exercises to address a variety of conditions.
5 Ways Orthotics Can Help You
Here are some of the most common benefits of orthotics:
1. Correcting Foot Misalignments
One of the main functions of orthotics is to correct foot misalignments, such as flat feet or high arches. These issues can create an imbalance in your gait, leading to discomfort in your knees, hips, and lower back. Custom orthotics provide the necessary support to restore proper alignment and improve your posture.
2. Reducing Pain
Whether you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or general foot pain, orthotics can help reduce discomfort by redistributing pressure evenly across your feet. At our Physiotherapy services in Newmarket clinic, we often see patients achieve significant pain relief with the help of a well-fitted orthotic.
3. Enhancing Athletic Performance
If you’re an athlete, you know how crucial foot stability and support are to your performance. Orthotics can provide the added cushioning and alignment needed to reduce the risk of injuries like shin splints or Achilles tendonitis.
4. Supporting Injury Recovery
Recovering from a foot, ankle, or knee injury? Orthotics can play a significant role in your rehabilitation by promoting proper movement patterns and reducing strain on the injured area.
5. Improving Overall Mobility
By addressing the root cause of your discomfort or pain, orthotics can make walking, running, or standing for extended periods much easier. This improvement in mobility can have a domino effect on your overall health and fitness.
How Are Orthotics Made?
At PhysioChiroWellness, we take an individualized approach to creating orthotics. When you visit our Newmarket clinic, our specialists start with a thorough assessment of your feet, gait, and overall posture.
Here’s what the process looks like:
- Initial Assessment: We’ll discuss your symptoms and medical history to understand your unique needs.
- Gait Analysis: Using advanced technology, we’ll analyze how you walk to identify any irregularities.
- Custom Molding: Based on the assessment, a custom mold of your foot is created to ensure the orthotic fits perfectly.
- Fabrication: The orthotics are crafted using high-quality materials tailored to your specific condition.
- Follow-Up: Once your orthotics are ready, we’ll ensure they fit comfortably and make any necessary adjustments.
This comprehensive process ensures that your orthotics are designed to deliver maximum benefits.
Physiotherapy in Newmarket Explains: Types of Orthotics
Not all orthotics are the same. Depending on your condition and lifestyle, your specialist may recommend:
- Rigid Orthotics: Made from durable materials like plastic or carbon fiber, these are ideal for controlling motion and addressing structural issues.
- Soft Orthotics: These provide cushioning and are often used to relieve pressure on sensitive areas.
- Hybrid Orthotics: A combination of rigid and soft orthotics, offering both support and comfort.
Your treatment plan at PhysioChiroWellness will include the type of orthotic that best suits your needs.
Related Conditions Orthotics Can Address
Orthotics aren’t just for foot pain. They can also help with:
- Knee pain
- Hip pain
- Lower back pain
- Arthritis
- Bunions
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Sports injuries
If you’ve been searching for relief from any of these conditions, our Physiotherapy in Newmarket team can help.
FAQs About Orthotics
Q: How long do orthotics last?
A: Most custom orthotics last 1-2 years, depending on usage and wear. Regular check-ups can help maintain their effectiveness.
Q: Can I use orthotics in any type of shoe?
A: Orthotics are versatile and can fit into most types of footwear. However, specific shoes may require a different design.
Q: Are orthotics covered by insurance?
A: Many insurance plans cover custom orthotics. Our team can help you navigate your coverage.
Q: Will orthotics feel uncomfortable at first?
A: It’s normal to experience a short adjustment period. Our specialists will ensure your orthotics are as comfortable as possible.
Take the Next Step Toward Comfort with best Physiotherapy in Newmarket
If you’re ready to experience the benefits of orthotics, we invite you to schedule a consultation at PhysioChiroWellness. Our Physiotherapy team in Newmarket is here to guide you every step of the way, from assessment to treatment. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or simply looking to enhance your mobility, we can help.
Call us today at (905) 836-0571 or click here to book an appointment today!