Custom orthotics play an important role in reducing strain on the body. With regular use, custom orthotics can help alleviate and prevent foot, ankle and knee pain and improve your foot function.
Like the foundation of a house, your feet support the weight of everything above them. When a small problem develops in your feet, a subtle change in the way you walk can cause a chain reaction that alters your posture and movement mechanics. You'd be surprised at the direct impact your feet can have on the rest of your body!
Some symptoms of poor foot biomechanics are;
- Localised foot pain
- Arch or heel pain
- Bunions
- Leg or knee pain
- Hip pain
- Back pain including poor posture
- and even neck pain
Being physiotherapists, we treat the whole body; including the feet. If you're unsure whether your aches and pains are from poor foot biomechanics, or you have aches or pains and think you may benefit from wearing custom orthotics, book a free Gaitscan assessment with one of our physiotherapists and we can determine whether your feet are having a negative impact on your body.
Orthotic FAQ's
How do I know if I need orthotics?
There are several reasons why you might need custom orthotics. If you have pain in your foot or heel (or any of the above symptoms), if you have high arches or flat feet, or if you have an inward or outward rolling step, you may benefit from the use of custom orthotics. The best way to find out if you need custom orthotics is to book a free Gaitscan assessment. We can then determine whether your feet are having a negative impact on the way you walk, run and move.
What happens during a Gaitscan assessment?
We are here to listen and get you on the road to recovery. After assessing where your aches and pains are coming from and with the help of our Gaitscan pressure plate, we will take scans of your feet (standing and walking) to analyse whether you will benefit from a custom orthotic. This data also creates a dynamic cast of each foot and eliminates the need for plaster or foam casting. If we recommend custom orthotics based on your diagnosis, we will send the dynamic cast of each foot to our team of skilled technicians to manufacture.
Do custom orthotics help plantar fasciitis?
Plantar Fasciitis is the most common reason of rear foot pain and is caused by aggravation of the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a broad, thick band of tissue that runs from the heel and attaches under the toes. Custom foot orthotics can help relieve the pain and treat symptoms caused by plantar fasciitis.
How long do the custom orthotics last?
As they are custom to your feet, they are more durable than regular generic orthotics. They can last for over five years if treated well.
I can purchase orthotics through my chemist. What's the difference?
Generic orthotics are not custom to your foot. Prescription, custom-made orthotics help re-balance your feet, reducing pain and discomfort by restoring and enhancing your body's natural movements. They are made specifically for your foot to meet your unique needs.
Are custom orthotics comfortable?
Using our Gaitscan technology, your custom orthotic is made specifically for you. If you have never worn orthotics before, we recommend wearing your orthotics in and slowly increasing the time of wear until you are comfortable wearing them all day every day.
If you would like any further information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
- The Team at Back In Motion Brighton