Orthotics (Greek: Ορθός, ortho, “to straighten” or “align”).
An orthotic (plural: orthoses) is an externally applied device used to modify the structural and functional characteristics of the feet and lower limbs.
Our insoles are orthopaedic devices that support or correct the function of your body as a whole. They are designed to fit your feet more efficiently than over-the-counter arch supports. The use of orthotics can relieve long term muscle and joint pains caused by incorrect posture, and function. The some of the most common reasons people use foot orthoses are for arch or heel pain (Plantar Fasciitis), tendonitis (problem with the Achilles), “shin splints” and for knee pain, such as iliotibial band syndrome. Sure orthotics are custom made using casts or scans of the feet, and incorporate measurements of your pelvis, foot, legs and limb length assessment, as well as any medical condition so each insole is unique. They can also prevent future injuries and enhance sporting performance. This allows for optimal control enabling your body to function to its full potential.
An orthotic (plural: orthoses) is an externally applied device used to modify the structural and functional characteristics of the feet and lower limbs.
Our insoles are orthopaedic devices that support or correct the function of your body as a whole. They are designed to fit your feet more efficiently than over-the-counter arch supports. The use of orthotics can relieve long term muscle and joint pains caused by incorrect posture, and function. The some of the most common reasons people use foot orthoses are for arch or heel pain (Plantar Fasciitis), tendonitis (problem with the Achilles), “shin splints” and for knee pain, such as iliotibial band syndrome. Sure orthotics are custom made using casts or scans of the feet, and incorporate measurements of your pelvis, foot, legs and limb length assessment, as well as any medical condition so each insole is unique. They can also prevent future injuries and enhance sporting performance. This allows for optimal control enabling your body to function to its full potential.
Most people find benefit from a thermoplastic device – usually made of polypropylene, but may be constructed of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) or carbon fibre, the flexibility and rigidity can be varied by the prescription. Most foot orthoses will last 5-10 years and will only need to be changed if outgrown by one-and-a-half shoe sizes, or you have had foot surgery or other trauma to the feet, or if you have arthritis in your feet. The devices may need to be recovered from time to time depending on the user and activity usually the last 1-2 years.
Orthotics can be used to:
- Control, encourage, guide, limit or immobilize movement of joints
- Promote or restrict muscle actions.
- Reduce or redirect weight bearing forces to minimise shock and maximise propulsion
- Aid rehabilitation from fractures and accommodate deformities or asymmetries in bone structures
- Correct the shape and/or function of the body, to provide easier movement capability, reduce pain, and slow the rate of joint degradation
The longer you wear your orthotics the more benefit you will get out of them. If your daily activities vary to the extent that you change your footwear, then you should have a second pair of orthotics designed for that specific activity. The most important time to wear them is when you are weight bearing for long periods, or exercising.
Orthotics will not reduce muscles tone. They will help position your foot so you will be using the right muscles at the right time, reducing fatigue and allowing your muscles to be used more efficiently.