Orthotics or prescription insoles have become commonplace in recent years. These clever devices have the ability to change the posture and alignment of the feet and the body, reducing the shock and pressure through the feet. For those that require them they reduce pain and injury and allow greater ease of movement. It is important however that they are assessed properly and only used when appropriate. No two feet are the same and it is crucial that feet are assessed thoroughly for the most suitable device.
On average we will walk around 128,000kms in our life time- that’s more than three times around the world. Each foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments and 19 muscles, that’s quarter of all our bones in our feet. With this impact and work load it is no wonder that our feet have a direct impact on the rest of our body. Structural problems in your feet can alter our walking pattern, running pattern & cause pain throughout our body including the feet themselves, ankle, shin, knees, hips and lower back. In fact the pressure through our feet when running can be up to four times our body weight. Think of your feet as the foundations, anything amiss here will directly impact the rest of the body.
With this in mind it is important to always pay attention to our feet. Ensure footwear is well fitting, comfortable, with adequate support. Keep slippers, flip-flops, and high heels to a minimum.
You may need orthotics if you have:
- Pain in the feet on a regular basis
- Pain in your knees or Achilles tendon
- Shin splints while running
- Flat feet or fallen arches
- Joint pain after standing, walking or running
- One leg shorter than the other
- Knock-knees or bow legs
- Shoes that wear out quickly or unevenly
- Your feet “toe out” when you walk
A clear and accurate assessment of the mechanics of your lower limbs is fundamental to understanding the profound effect that subtle faults in your foot can cause. Your gait and movement will be assessed by a chartered physiotherapist and then either a cast impression or a detailed sketch will be taken Combining our exacting biomechanics assessment with your history we can provide a complete diagnostic of foot & lower limb function; allowing for specific treatment or Orthotics to be prescribed accurately.
