The podiatrist, foot orthotist, and foot orthotics go hand in hand; they play a crucial role in resolving foot problems. Treating these issues is a rigorous process that requires the expertise of a professional. Over-the-counter pseudo-orthopedic orthotics should not be seen as an effective solution, especially since they are not custom-made. Athletes, children, diabetics, seniors, and many others are all at risk for injuries, biomechanical misalignments, and foot pain. A resource to consult from the start, the podiatrist and orthotist are the cornerstone of foot orthotic treatments. Here’s why.
What are Foot Orthotics for?
To be considered orthopedic, an insole inserted into a shoe must have certain characteristics. While comfort, insulation against cold, and cushioning are not to be neglected, true foot orthotics have more fundamental properties. A foot orthotic, as any podiatrist will confirm, primarily serves to improve the body’s biomechanics, which in turn has beneficial and lasting effects on your lower limbs. How does it work?
By forcing your feet to meet the ground differently and better support it, a foot orthotic corrects an altered kinetic pattern (such as walking or running) caused by an injury, wear, or even a genetic predisposition, and thus, initially reduces pain or discomfort. More importantly, such repositioning results in a different and constant engagement of the supporting and postural muscles, which helps activate certain muscles, notably locomotor ones. This is essentially what is referred to as biomechanical realignment or correction. The outcome is beneficial effects on several joints, muscle toning, and improved sports performance (efficiency, injury prevention).
Foot Orthotics, but Not Just Any Kind
Our posture when standing has a major impact on our feet. It is clear that any modification or correction through a foot orthotic, as confirmed by both podiatrists and foot orthotists, should not be imprecise, nor should it be done “randomly” or by trial and error. This is why it is important to consult a professional from the outset.
Podiatrists and doctors possess the required medical expertise for diagnosis. They also know that custom-made foot orthotics are more beneficial, and they are often familiar with the latest manufacturing technologies in this field.
In this regard, the production of foot orthotics via scanning and 3D printing has been a major innovation in recent years. Manufactured in laboratories from the podological measurements and data provided, these high-tech orthotics are thinner, more flexible, more comfortable, and free of any imprecise areas; they are fully custom-made.
Recognizing Needs and Knowing the Solutions
Foot pain is a common problem. Fortunately, podiatric science is evolving, and palliative or curative techniques are improving. In the case of foot orthotics made via modeling and 3D printing and prescribed by podiatrists or doctors, the results meet expectations, even improving the overall health and well-being of patients.
More specifically, the morphological precision and orthopedic properties of the new custom foot orthotics can address issues related to deformities, ankle eversion, flat feet, and high arches, for example. They can also alleviate or even cure medical conditions such as plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, Lenoir’s spur, tibial periostitis, knee pain, and more.
Technology, Foot Orthotics, Podiatrist, Orthotist, and the Solution: SKELTEC
From the soles of our feet to the lower back, many of our pains and limitations stem from our posture and the way we make contact with the ground. The professional addresses these health issues, which involve not only bones and muscles but also joints and tendons.
Foot professionals are also keenly interested in new foot orthotic treatment protocols and, in this regard, the innovative products resulting from new manufacturing techniques. Skeltec’s scanning and modeling software solutions, as well as the 3D printing manufacturing process used by the company, have redefined the standards. Discuss this with your professional.