Tips For Using Orthotics Sucessfully
Orthotics are basically inserts that you place in your shoes in order to change the way you walk and stand. They change which parts of your feet are put under pressure, which can help prevent certain injuries and encourage other ones to heal. However, there's a bit more to using orthotics than simply sticking them inside your shoes and walking away. Here are some tips to help you use orthotics successfully.
1. Start with shoes that fit.
Orthotics should not be considered a substitute for shoes that don't fit. If your shoes are too large or too tight, even the best orthotics won't do a whole lot to help you out. If you suspect your shoes may not fit very well, then visit a shoe store and have a technician measure your feet. They'll tell you what size you need, and you can go from there. Make sure you're buying from a store that offers shoes in various widths and not just straight sizes.
2. Look for orthotics made for your specific problem.
If you have plantar fasciitis, look for orthotics designed for people with that ailment. If you have bunions, you want orthotics for bunions. Each of these different varieties of orthotics is designed to shift your weight and the pressure on your feet in a way that will help address your specific injury or ailment. For example, orthotics for plantar fasciitis help pad your arch, reducing the strain this area is placed under so it is able to heal.
If you suffer from just general foot soreness, then look for orthotics that offer a balanced amount of padding under the entire foot.
3. Wear them consistently.
Some people purchase orthotics and then only wear them now and then when their feet are uncomfortable. But this approach defeats the purpose. If your feet feel better after a few days in orthotics, that's good — but you need to keep wearing them to prevent your feet from backsliding into injured mode again. If you have multiple pairs of shoes you wear often, consider buying a separate pair of orthotics for each one so you don't always have to move them back and forth. This will help you use them more consistently.
If you have any trouble finding orthotics that fit or that work for you, reach out to a podiatrist in your area. They can help you find the right pair, whether off-the-shelf or custom.
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