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Orthotics
Orthotics
What are foot Orthotics?
They are specially designed shoe inserts, which help the natural position of the foot. The type of Orthotic we need depends on the type of foot we have, how the foot is changing position and what shoes we wear. By careful selection of the correct Orthotic, the foot is able to return to its natural position and function. This will prevent damaging changes in other joints, muscles and ligaments and reduce pain.
Getting the right size
Foot Orthotics are designed to be easy to fit. Each model is made for a range of shoe sizes so simply select the correct option. Trim to fit lines are marked on the underside of the full-length models to ensure an exact fit.
Wearing the right footwear
It is important that you consider the shoes you are wearing. They must be of a good fit and allow enough room to wear the Orthotic comfortably. The shoe should provide a flexible forefoot accommodation. The shoe must not show signs of excessive wear.
Breaking them in
Allow for a break-in period. It is important to allow the foot and lower limb to develop tolerance of an Orthotic. You should allow a period of at least 4 weeks to gradually introduce them for walking or running. This period can vary a great deal. Start wearing your Orthotics for 1 to 2 hours only; then gradually increase this time.
Why these problems start
The foot possesses an amazing support mechanism. However, the low arch, pronating foot is simply unable to support itself as this system fails. As force reaches its peak on the ball of the foot the heel lifts, the arch collapses and all supporting muscles and ligaments become susceptible to injury. Our feet support our whole body weight so when things go wrong this can cause problems elsewhere in the body. At the same time, changes in the body posture can lead to problems in the feet.
We sell orthotics by Gaitway
Gaitway Orthotics eliminate the causes of pain due to poor foot posture. They do this by providing corrective support on the underside of the heel, which normalises the position of the foot and leg bones and reduces the strain on supporting ligaments, muscles and tendons. This will reduce the foot's susceptibility to biomechanical injury and encourage normal function of the lower limb during walking. In addition Gaitway provide gentle support to the inner arch in order to off load high-pressure areas of the sole of the foot. Metaflex insoles are designed to support the transverse arch of the foot, which lies just behind the ball of the foot. The cushioning support deflects pressures away from painful areas and so relieves symptoms.
Wearing them in
Gaitway Orthotics should be worn initially for 1 to 2 hours a day and the usage gradually increased at a rate that the patient is comfortable with. Most patients are completely comfortable within 4 to 6 weeks. If symptoms persist the patient may require more formal assessment by a specialist for customised Talar Made Orthotic.
How long will they last?
This can vary between patients and depends on a number of factors including patient age, weight and activity level. However, 8 months is around the average, the product's life will be maximised if they are cared for properly.
Cleaning your orthotics
Orthotics should be cleaned regularly in order to prolong the product life expectancy. The best way to clean the devices is to gently sponge them with warm, soapy water and dried with a paper towel. Do not soak the product for long periods of time or dry artificially.
All about foot posture
As we walk the heel hits the ground and the foot pronates, which causes it to roll inwards and the arch to lower. At the same time the leg bones twist inwards. This leaves the arch unstable. The foot must recover from this position to provide a firm platform to support the body as the heel leaves the ground.
Patients with lower arch feet who pronate too much are left with unstable midfoot, no secure platform and less ability to absorb shock. If the foot stays in this position the arch will continue to fall and the heel may appear to lean over.
Orthotics corrects the foot posture and restores the heel to its natural position. At the same time the arch is supported and the foot is in a more stable position.
Once the foot is corrected in this way, the legs are no longer twisted and the knee, hip and lower back are returned to a normal position. Muscles and joints work more efficiently and painful symptoms are resolved.
The Scholl Prescription Orthotic supports the foot allowing it to function and move freely
By stabilising the foot correctly, the Scholl Prescription Orthotic can have a beneficial effect on posture and related conditions
The Scholl Prescription Orthotic supports the heel and arch, putting the foot in the correct neutral position