A physiotherapist or a podiatrist will commonly recommend the use of orthotics or arch support to help relieve different forms of pain that include shin pain, knee pain, heel pain, foot pain and back pain. These ailments are usually caused by biomechanical ailments or lack of stability from your foot region causing the development of abnormal tissues of the shin, heel, foot or back, which may result in pain. These problems can be corrected using high-quality Ottawa orthotics and arch supports. They help rectify the problems by providing support for the pronated feet or fallen arches, which prevents over-pronation of the area as you run or walk.
By providing proper support for the fallen arches, the Ottawa orthotics also help improve your foot stability and provide better control the rotation of your shin. It is important to note that you do not necessarily have to be experiencing foot pain to use the arch support. You can buy orthotics to help properly align and support your foot or ankle. You can also use them to help prevent, correct or accommodate foot deformities or to improve the overall functionality of the ankle or foot.
A doctor will recommend the use of Ottawa orthotics based on your symptoms, underlying cause of the problem and the shape of your feet. In some occasions, the doctor may even prescribe the use of custom Ottawa orthotics. Custom orthotics are considerably more expensive than normal orthotics available off-the-shelf, but they offer better support and correction. However, in most occasions an off-the-shelf arch support is equally effective especially when combined with a stretching exercise program.
Foot conditions that can be corrected or prevented with orthotics and arch supports
Achilles Tendonitis: This is an inflammation of the gastrocnemius tendon and the soleus muscles of the leg. You are likely to suffer from this condition if you have an equine deformity or run up-hill. This condition develops if the ankle joint fails to move as required due to the tightness of the aforementioned musculature causing damage to the tendon tissues.
Metatarsalgia: This is a symptom that may include inflammation and pain in the ball of your foot with or without bruising. It usually occurs in the metatarsal head or it can be isolated near the big toe. The main symptom of this condition is feeling pain in the ball of your foot as you lift weights. You may also experience sharp pain in your toes.
This condition commonly occurs if something threatens the normal mechanics of your foot. Some of the causes of this condition include being overweight, wearing shoes that do not fit properly, inflammatory joint disorders and certain foot shapes.
Morton’s Neuroma: This condition refers to the thickening of tissues that surround the intermetatarsal nerve. Patients suffering from this condition experience pins and needles sensation, which spreads to their fifth and fourth toes. The painful symptom occurs when the nerve gets squeezed and irritated. The irritation of the nerve can be caused by improper footwear, abnormal foot function, and previous foot trauma.
Plantar Fasciitis: This is an inflammatory condition that develops in the area where the plantar fascia attaches to your medial tuberosity. Patients suffering from this condition usually experience pain when they stand after a period of sitting or get out of bed. It is caused by over-pronation and inflammation.
Prevent and Treat Common Foot Problems with Orthotics and Arch Supports
