Orthotics? Do I need them to help get rid of my pain?

Do I Need Orthotics for my Feet?:

Here at Compass Physio we have had a lot of people asking this exact question.

Here are some truths about orthotics and when and how they can help.

Orthotics are individualised supports for the feet, which work to improve foot stability, reduce joint stress and help alleviate foot pain.

Here at Compass Physio Enfield, Kilcock and Castlecomer we assess whether you may benefit from orthotics.

Quick facts about Orthotics:

25 % of the bones in the body are in your feet

While running your feet impact the ground with 3-4 times the force of your body weight

The first “orthotics” date back at least 2,000 years.

Layers of wool were sometimes placed inside the sandals to give relief to foot fatigue or strain.

How do Orthotics Work?

Orthotic will help to hold your foot in the optimum position for the foot to function correctly when walking, running and standing.

Orthotics can help to relieve pressure points, improper rotation of the feet and muscle stress.

Orthotics can help a foot function as it is designed to do.

Conditions which orthotics may help Flat feet, Bunions, Plantar Fasciitis, Knee-cap pain, Shin Splints Pain in the ball of the foot Osteoarthritis of the ankle, knee or hip.

Types of insoles and the types

There are several different types of insoles as explained below,

These insoles have different properties as described below.

At Compass Physio our Chartered Physiotherapists will help to determine the insole that best suits you.

Rigid Supports

Rigid supports are used to control the movement in the two joints of the foot directly below the ankle.

Help to prevent the foot rolling in.

Are often used for those who overload their feet or have uneven leg lengths.

Soft Supports

The key to making any change is to find the desire within yourself — do it for you! not because of a girlfriend, boyfriend, coach etc. It will be harder to stay on track and motivated if you’re doing something out of obligation. Set the big goal and keep visualizing yourself achieving it.

This makes it a lot easier to stay on track when you have that emotional driver to achieve it for yourself. And maybe have a little reward at the end!

Semi-Rigid Support

The third category is in the middle, the semi-rigid support. Aimed at people playing sports and often made from a combination of leather and cork layers to give a person balance.

How Can Physiotherapy Help?

If you are finding it hard to complete regular exercises due to pain, fatigue or simply time schedules speak to us at Compass Physio.

Exercise is for everybody. At Compass physio we will complete a full physical assessment and will help identify any possible underlying causes that may limit your exercise regime.

Our chartered physiotherapists will help you to build strength and strategies which will help tackle any problem.

At Compass physio we will help you succeed and reach your goals.

To find out how Compass Physio can help, call 046 954 9456 (this number covers all clinics), click here to book online.

You can also email any questions to info@compassphysio.ie

Paddy Mulligan – MISCP Chartered Physiotherapist Compass Physio