Whether you’re a teacher, nurse, bartender, factory worker, or anyone with a job requiring long hours standing, get extra support for your feet. Orthotics provide the cushion you need to keep working or simply live life without experiencing regular foot pain. Below, get answers to common questions before talking to your podiatrist.

What You Need to Know About Orthotics

Are they like shoe inserts?

While you place orthotics in footwear like you would shoe inserts, they differ from store-bought options because they are highly customized. First, you undergo a biomechanical examination and gait assessment. Professionals then create casts and the final, personalized products based on your results. These tailored inserts treat numerous foot conditions — such as flat feet, high arches, foot ball pain, arthritis, and ligament and tendon injuries — by providing extra cushioning and support in specific areas.

Will I feel any pain when I start wearing them?

Arch soreness or other mild discomfort is normal during the first few days of wearing custom inserts. If you experience severe redness, blistering, or other issues, contact your podiatrist immediately. However, most people start feeling better quickly because the corrective inserts treat their foot conditions by providing support and alignment. And, while the inserts do not change your feet, they reduce the burden on high-pressure areas to increase stabilization.

What type of footwear should I wear with them?

It’s wise to wear supportive footwear, such as sneakers and some boots, with orthotics. They provide the base the insert needs to function at an optimal level — something high heels, flats, and other nonsupportive footwear can’t offer. If you are unsure which shoes to use, ask your podiatrist for recommendations.

Who should wear these custom foot care products?

Orthotics are ideal for anyone who stands for long periods, regardless of their age. They also benefit people with minor foot care issues who do not need surgery, as well as growing children with severe foot and ankle issues who cannot undergo operations. Other candidates include people with arthritis, plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, bunions, shin splints, tendinitis of the Achilles, and diabetic foot ulcers.

Satisfy your foot care needs with custom orthotics from Choice Podiatry Associates. The Cincinnati, OH, podiatrists operate out of convenient locations in Kenwood, Bridgetown, and Reading, offering tailored treatment plans for patients of all ages. Call (513) 574-2424 today to make an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their foot care services.