My feet often hurt a lot and I recently had my feet digitally analyzed by a chiropracter. I learned my arches are very high. They told me custome-made orthotics can help, but I've heard people say they either don't do anything or are uncomfortable. I've tried simply drug store inserts, but they only buy me a little more time before my feet start hurting again. Before I shell out any money, what is the truth?
2006-08-16 11:37:38 · 7 answers · asked by city_savvy 2 in Health ➔ General Health Care ➔ Other - General Health Care
Orthotics can definitely help with foot problems. They have to be made correctly. I have been down the same road as you. The drug store inserts dont cut it for me. They were a waste of money.
Many people report troubles with the custom made ones with plastic shells underneath them. Softer materials are usually better accepted than plastic for high and sensitive feet!
I have orthotics and they help me. Mine came from a pedorthist who is very patient and took the time to make sure that they worked for me.
2006-08-17 13:24:13 · answer #1 · answered by Buzz s 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Most typically, people with high arches, or "over supination" get foot pain because their foot does not go into the weight acceptance mode (or pronation). This makes people with high arches more prone to repetitive stress type syndromes of the lower extremities such as stress fractures.
An orthotic that helps the foot accept weight and distribute it more evenly should be beneficial. An orthotic for people who are over supinators should be made of a softer foam type of material (whereas people who need are over pronators and need more control of the foot typically need a rigid orthotic)...and yes, custom is better. I recommend going to an orthotist for a fitting...these are people whose primary job is to make orthotics.
I also recommend that the DC (or a physical therapist) analyse what is happening to your foot during walking/running (as appropriate) as many times what is happening in quiet standing is often very different than what happens during activity...especially if strength deficits are involved.
Also, check with your insurance company regarding coverage. Many will require you to be fitted at a certain company, podiatrist, etc.
2006-08-16 12:30:43 · answer #2 · answered by mistify 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
They want you to pay the big bucks thats why they want you to buy custom crap. I have no arches and I use the arches you find in department stores. I'm not sure about high arches. I thought my friend had high arches and bought her's from the store. Do research on the internet. I have to buy new arches when they wear out but custom ones will wear out also.
2006-08-16 11:45:34 · answer #3 · answered by Maimee 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Do not get the "hard" plastic orthotics!! Get the one with semi hard Sorbothane. Hard plastic othotics will hurt you more! Best wishes!
2006-08-16 11:42:37 · answer #4 · answered by Antoine a 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Yes. Find yourself a good doctor!
2006-08-16 11:40:32 · answer #5 · answered by Bride2B 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋
Yes, if correctly fitted.
2006-08-16 11:52:35 · answer #6 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Chiroprater is correct they can fit them to you and most places will remake them if they aren't cofortable.
2006-08-16 11:42:09 · answer #7 · answered by I-o-d-tiger 6 · 0⤊ 1⤋