How Arch Support Orthotics Can Help Relieve Foot Pain

By Sharron Cantu


Swollen and painful feet are problems encountered by podiatrists every day. In the vast majority of the cases faced by these professionals the cause can be traced back to the shoes the patients wear. They either do not fit well or the patient participates in sporting activities without bothering to wear the correct shoes. Many patients suffer from common problems such as flat feet. IN many cases the problem can be remedied with arch support orthotics.

Low or non existent insteps lead to a variety of foot problems. Many sufferers cannot stand on tip toes and they experience intense pain if they have to stand for long periods of time. Their feet and ankles tend to swell up in hot weather and many sufferers also experience constant lower back pain. Their shoes wear unevenly and they struggle to find footwear that is wide enough.

There is no remedy for flat feet. This does not mean that there is nothing that can be done, however. Insoles go a long way in supporting the instep and in providing relief from pain and discomfort. Insoles are available freely and in most cases they can be used with several pairs of shoes. In some rare cases, for example when the feet are deformed, it may be necessary to have special insoles manufactured.

There are some surgeons that have attempted to correct flat feet by means of surgery. In such cases an artificial insert is placed in the ankle bone. The majority of podiatrists will not attempt this surgery. They warn that the operation is dangerous and risky. If anything goes wrong, and they warn that the chances are great, the patient will suffer extreme pain for the rest of his life.

Apart from wearing insoles, people with flat feet can avoid pain and discomfort with a few simple exercises. Patients are advised to try and run on their toes and to regularly stretch the toes as wide as possible. It is also highly recommended that people with flat feet walk barefoot as often as they can. When exercising regularly the tendons and ligaments in the feet will grow stronger.

While everybody is born with flat feet some people simply never develop arches. Many other people only develop flat feet later in life. One of the main reasons is obesity and people with arthritis are also prone to develop the condition. Injuries to the feet often lead to inflamed tendons and if this is not treated flat feet can be the result.

Of course, people that never developed insteps have no choice but to live with the condition. Other can, however, do much to prevent to condition from developing later in life. One of the most important preventive measures is to maintain a healthy weight. It is also very important to wear shoes that fit correctly. Sportsmen should always wear the shoes specifically designed for the type of sport they play.

Insoles can do much to help people suffering from flat feet to avoid constant pain and discomfort. It is important to buy only quality products from reputable dealers. Inferior products can actually more harm than good, causing blisters and placing pressure upon the foot. Any podiatrist can give advice on which products are best.




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