Find out what kind of shoe insert might be able to alleviate your foot problems.
Whether you are an athlete or someone dealing with foot pain, there are so many people who can benefit from all that orthotics have to 
offer. Sure, you could buy over-the-counter shoe inserts but they don’t offer the unique support that your feet need. From the office of our Onley, Clinton, Kensington and Silver Spring, MD podiatrists, find out more about prescription orthotics and which kind is right for you.
When it comes to choosing orthotics you have many options. You can opt for those simple commercial shoe inserts or you can turn to your Onley, Clinton, Kensington and Silver Spring foot doctor, who will use impressions and computer technology to create orthotics that are custom-made to fit your foot and its needs.
Since the shoe inserts you can by over-the-counter are pretty inexpensive it might seem like a great option, but not so fast! This one-size-fits-all style of orthotics may not actually fix the issue you are having, and could actually make problems worse.
Are you dealing with any of these issues?
- Achilles tendonitis
- Bunions
- Tarsal tunnel syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
- Arthritis
- Foot deformities
If so, orthotics could be a great option for you.
What can orthotics do?
They are an ideal way to improve your ability to walk, run or perform other athletic movements while also reducing discomfort and increasing joint stability and providing the support your arches need. They can also help realign the foot and ankle and prevent foot complications from happening.
What types of orthotics are available?
When you turn to us for custom orthotics there are two main types from which to choose: functional and accommodative.
Functional orthotics are great if you are looking to improve how the foot moves. If you have been told that you pronate when you walk or run this is the kind of orthotics for you. It can also help reduce shock absorption and even help those with various foot deformities gain the support they need.
Accommodative orthotics, on the other hand, can be a variety of different things from splints to braces to casts. They can be recommended for everything from minor aches and pains to correcting functional issues.
You can also choose the type of materials for your orthotics. Some orthotics are made from rigid materials and are used to support and control the functioning of the foot’s joints. Soft orthotics are usually made from materials like foam and are great for those with foot malformations or arthritis. Sometimes the most versatile orthotics is semi-rigid, meaning that they use both soft and hard materials to provide support, cushioning and comfort. This is the ideal type of orthotic for athletes.
Are you ready to find out what orthotics could do for your feet? Then turn to Family Foot and Ankle Associates of Maryland in Onley, Clinton, Kensington and Silver Spring, MD to learn more and to see if orthotics is right for you.