Which Common Foot Problems Are Treated With Orthotics?

Inserts for your shoes or the back of your heels, called orthotics, give your feet the extra support they need and improve your posture. A podiatrist may recommend orthotics for patients with severe foot or leg disorders affecting their health and how their feet function. American Podiatric Medical Association data shows that more than 75 percent of the population experiences foot discomfort throughout their lifetime.

But, despite the prevalence of foot pain and the significant impact it may have on daily living, many people still choose to ignore their symptoms instead of seeking medical attention. That's a shame because many causes of foot discomfort respond well to non-invasive, non-invasive, and non-long-term treatments. Custom orthotics are a non-invasive, individualized treatment option for many types of foot discomfort that alleviates pain in the feet, legs, and even the lower back.

5 Common Foot Problems

Custom orthotics can effectively relieve many conditions, including the five most prevalent sources of persistent foot discomfort, given their tailor-made nature.

Plantar fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue that starts at your heel and runs the length of your foot. Pain along the bottom of the foot or concentrated in the heel is a common symptom of inflammation or irritation of this band. Age is a significant risk factor for developing plantar fasciitis, and athletes whose feet endure repeated stress are also at increased risk.

Bunions

The bottom joint becomes enlarged and painful when the other toes crowd the big toe, causing the toes to turn inward. A painful bump may develop on the outer aspect of the foot if the joint becomes "displaced" and distorted over time. The big toe may be pushed on top of the other toes under challenging situations. Bunions are more common in people with specific foot shapes, including those who frequently wear narrow or high-heeled shoes.

Heel spurs

Bony outgrowths called heel spurs commonly develop on the outer aspect of the heel bone. These tumors can be painful and inflame the surrounding tissue when they press on softer tissues or tendons.

Neuromas

Whenever a nerve is stimulated and inflamed, it develops a benign growth called a neuroma. Neuromas are not only painful but can also result in tingling or numbness. The neuroma known as Morton's neuroma typically develops in the ball of the foot.

Tendinitis

The many tendons in your foot make it easy for them to all get inflamed simultaneously. Tendinitis of the posterior tendon is prevalent because it connects the inside of the ankle to the center of the foot. The health of your arch depends in part on this tendon. This tendon might become irritated, and your angle can become stressed if you engage in high-impact activities or stand for long periods.

Bottom Line 

Do not let foot pain detract from your quality of life any longer. It's best to talk to professionals if your doctor suggests orthotics so you can learn what to expect from the treatment. They will be able to provide you with all of the information you require and help you create an orthotic device to treat your foot issues. Schedule an online consultation to learn more about how personalized orthotics might alleviate your discomfort.