7 Signs You Need Orthotics

What are some common signs you need orthotics?

Have you ever wondered do I need orthotics? Heel pain, corns and calluses, constant tripping or ankle twisting? Orthotics can address various foot issues, such as pain, deformities, and gait problems.

Read on. We’ve rounded up seven of the most common signs you need orthotics, also known as foot balance insoles. These can address common foot concerns and relieve pain.

1. You have foot pain or swelling

If you’re experiencing foot pain or swelling during or after simple everyday activities (standing, walking around), it’s time to see a podiatrist. You don’t need to live with unnecessary foot pain; orthotics for feet might solve the problem. Seek advice from a podiatrist for a thorough assessment and personalised recommendations based on your specific pain and symptoms.

If orthotics aren’t required, your podiatrist will investigate the cause of your discomfort and provide advice on correct footwear and appropriate exercises to help you get back on track.

2. You have sharp heel pain

Sharp heel pain, especially when experienced first thing in the morning, can signify plantar fasciitis. (It is also a sign you might need custom orthotics.) This raises the question: Can orthotics cause plantar fasciitis? The answer is no; rather, they can help alleviate it. This common foot complaint occurs due to inflammation of the plantar fascia—the thick band of tissue running from your heel bone all the way to your toes.

The plantar fascia supports the foot’s arch and acts as a shock absorber. It is more susceptible to inflammation if you’re overweight, have tight Achilles, high arches, or flat feet, or spend a lot of time standing or wearing high heels.

Custom-made orthotics can help alleviate symptoms by supporting the foot’s arch and improving alignment, which reduces strain on the plantar fascia. This additional support can relieve pain and provide cushioning tailored to an individual’s specific foot shape and needs.

3. You have a flat foot or high arch

Orthotics for flat feet can be particularly beneficial. Different foot types, such as flat feet and high arches, may require different types of orthotics for proper support. If you have flat feet—with little or no arch—you may experience foot pain or overpronation (inward rolling of the foot). Orthotics can help relieve pressure on the arch, reduce knee pain, and reduce rolling. Similarly, orthotics may be prescribed in the case of high arches, which can lead to toe issues, corns, calluses, foot pain, and ankle instability.

4. You’re having problems with balance or are falling over

Collapsed arches can make you feel unstable and lead to balance problems, especially in older adults. Orthotics provide stability and reduce discomfort and falls.

5. Your shoes are wearing unevenly

A quick glance at your footwear can reveal another of the clearest signs you might need orthotics. A sole that is more worn on the inside is a sign of pronation (inward rolling), while supination (outward rolling) will cause wear to the outer side of your shoe. Orthotics can help redistribute pressure to prevent this uneven wearing of shoe tread. Or maybe one shoe is more worn than the other, a sign of different leg lengths.

All of these issues should be addressed – possibly with corrective footwear or inserts – to prevent joint pain and dysfunction.

6. You’ve had a lower limb injury

Recent injuries to your lower limbs may affect the way you walk. Previous injuries can also impact your gait, and orthotics can help alleviate the resulting issues. Ensuring your feet are correctly supported, well aligned, and moving efficiently is important. Orthotics can help with this and reduce the likelihood of further pain or injury.

7. You have diabetic foot complications

Orthotics help to evenly distribute pressure, so they are often prescribed in the management of diabetic foot complications. They transfer pressure away from painful areas, such as corns and calluses.

Orthotics can be very beneficial in correcting your gait, providing arch support and evenly distributing pressure across the foot. This way, they can help prevent and alleviate pain and swelling, corns and calluses, correct your posture, and even help manage back pain and headaches.

***Now that you know the most common signs to help you answer your question, ‘Do I need orthotics?’ *** It’s time to take charge of your foot health. Improve your symptoms from the ground up by booking an appointment with our Melbourne CBD podiatrist today.

Have other foot concerns? Check out our blog post on the signs you should see a podiatrist.