What Is A Foot Orthotic?

A term commonly heard by people is foot orthotic, but many are unsure exactly what it is, why you might need one and what it actually does to the foot.

In simple terms, a foot orthotic is a supportive device that is worn inside of your footwear to change the mechanical function of the foot.  During weight-bearing activities such as walking, running or even standing, the foot orthotics work dynamically to improve the stability of the foot.  

Ideally, foot orthotics will provide full arch contact to give the foot correct biomechanical function.  Correcting faulty foot mechanics is a critical function of foot orthotics, as it not only helps the foot and it’s many joints but it also reduces unnecessary strain at the ankle,knee and hip joints as well as the lower back.

The Cause Of Faulty Foot Mechanics

The foot is an incredibly complex structure.  During a normal stride, the foot is designed to pronate (turn in) when hitting the ground in order to provide shock absorption as well as conform to the variable terrain you walk on.  Following that, the foot must lock and supinate in order to provide efficient leverage to propel us forward to the next step.  When either of these phases get out of synch or are excessive, the foot is considered to have faulty mechanics.

It is estimated that 90 percent of us over-pronate, meaning that our arches flatten out too much and can’t re-stiffen enough for efficient propulsion.  Only about four percent of people suffer from over-supination, which means their arches are high and rigid.  This leads to poor shock absorption and too much weight-bearing pressure focused on just a few spots.

The results of these faulty foot mechanics can lead to a variety of pain and deformities in the feet.  Bunions, corns, hammertoes and plantar fasciitis are a few of the common ailments.  Due to the fact that foot function affects a chain of bones rising all the way to the spine, having knee, hip and low back pain and disfunction are also common.  There are over 30 diagnosis relating to faulty foot function.

Correcting Faulty Foot Function

The good news is that problems arising from faulty foot function can be prevented and even reversed.  The use of foot orthotics that provide proper arch support and cushioning can help restore normal foot function and allow your body the opportunity to heal itself.  Even bunions can be reduced or eliminated without the need for surgery.

Restoring proper foot function can not only lead to healthy feet, but can help bring balance to the entire body and reduce or eliminate those nagging joint pains.  If you are struggling with lower body joint pain, or have one of the many maladies caused by faulty foot function, consider the use of a quality Orthotic Arch Support.

TheInsoleStore features Insoles, Orthotic Arch Supports, Arch Cushions, Gel Insoles and similar foot care products from top name manufacturers such as doctor recommended Spenco, Superfeet and Sof Sole.  Walk with a smile again, something simple as adding an Orthotic Arch Support can bring remarkable results.