How do I know I need orthotics? – 5 Signs That You Might Need Orthotics

Orthotics are something that not everyone will need. Everyone is different and some people will go their entire life with no foot or lower limb injuries or pain. Orthotics help by redistributing pressure, so it can be advised that if you have been suffering or experiencing any pain in your feet or legs, an orthotic may be what is required. It is best to seek advice from your podiatrist who can carry out a thorough assessment, through history taking of your pain and problem followed by a biomechanical assessment. From this, the podiatrist will be able to point you in the right direction if you would benefit from an orthotic and what alternative treatments you can try.

Below we have compiled 5 signs that might mean you may benefit from orthotics.

1. You’ve been suffering with foot pain and/or swelling: If you have been experiencing foot pain or swelling during or after activities, even standing or simple everyday activities, it isn’t normal and you shouldn’t have to put up with unnecessary foot pain. We would recommend seeing a podiatrist and they can assess your problem and help determine if you would benefit from an orthotic and provide any other essential advice.
2. You’ve had a previous injury:  If you recently suffered an injury to your lower limb – hip, knee, leg or ankle, it may be affecting the way you walk or run and as a result you may be compensating and suffering other pain. This may be affecting the pressure you put on your feet and causing other areas of your feet and lower legs to become overworked. Orthotics can help limit and control excessive movement throughout the feet and offload painful areas. This can also help reduce the likelihood of further pain or injury.
3. Your shoes are wearing unevenly:  Take a look at the tread on your shoes. While most of our shoes start to wear out after we’ve had them for a while and spent a lot of time in them, uneven wearing of the tread to one side of your shoe more than the other or differences between the two shoes can be a sign that your foot is rolling inwards or outwards too much. By inserting an orthotic into the shoes, it can help redistribute pressure and offload areas experiencing increased pressure. 
4. You feel a sharp pain under your heel: Experiencing pain in your heels, particular when you first get up in the mornings shouldn’t be a normal part of your day. Often an orthotic may be recommended along with other treatments to help offload the pressure going through the heel and redistribute other pressures under your foot.
5. You often feel unstable on your feet: If we have a foot type that moves excessively through the arch, for example too much rolling in or rolling out movements, it can result in feeling unstable and unconfident when walking or standing. Orthotics can help in providing stability and support and help reduce discomfort and the risk of falls.

We see lots of people who present complaining of pain in their feet and lower legs. Orthotics are a great way to help offload the areas of your feet and legs that are being overworked. Podiatrist will often recommend the need for orthotics based on your area of pain and symptoms. There is no doubt that poor foot posture can cause and contribute to other conditions such as knee, hip and lower back pain. If you have any questions or have found yourself suffering any of the 5 signs mentioned above, we would love to help you out here at The Footcare Clinic. Feel free to book online or call us at the clinic on 9711 7562.