Much like the people who are attached to them, no pair of feet is exactly like another — each comes in its own specific shape and size.
Whereas two people may have flat feet, the length and width of their feet, as well as the exact degree of flatness, would vary from person to person. If both decided to invest in foot orthotics to help fix the issue, they would need their own unique, custom pairs.
Foot orthotics are for those folks who happen to have conditions that adversely affect their feet and, in turn, their overall quality of life and ability to function optimally.To create custom foot orthotics for a
specific patient or client, the healthcare provider must first be able to assess the problem, such as those flat feet. Other issues that may require custom orthotics include Achilles tendinitis, overpronation, underpronation, metatarsalgia and plantar fasciitis, to name a few. These issues may be due to a subtle or overt deformity that causes biomechanical dysfunction, or they may be the result of an overuse injury or a traumatic injury, along with other possible causes.
Getting the right foot orthotics means making sure they are designed to address the specific issues the client is facing. Often, this means having a mold taken of one or both feet. However, with advances in technology, wellness professionals now have access to scanning devices and software, as well, which can illuminate foot issues and their related postural problems.
In comparison to custom orthotics, over-the-counter foot orthotics tend to come in one-size-fits-all variations. The problem with these mass-made orthotics is that, while there is a chance they may help in certain situations, there is also a chance they could do nothing or, worse, cause further problems.
For example, if a person has been diagnosed with Achilles tendinitis, then the associated pain can be quite severe. With custom foot orthotics, that pain can be decreased dramatically. In such a situation, foot orthotics that lift the heel can ease strain on the Achilles tendon.
In cases of mild and temporary discomfort, one-size-fits-all foot orthotics may come in handy. For more serious and persistent issues, however, customization can be much more powerful and effective.
