When it comes to healthy feet, one of the most popular options is the use of an orthotic device, or orthoses. These are the inserts that are put into a shoe, usually to address some sort of problem with the foot. There are cushioning inserts to relieve pressure, accommodative inserts for diabetic patients with sensory loss, and pediatric devices used to correct gait abnormalities.
A functional orthotic device, or functional orthoses, is a very useful tool in a wide range of people. Elite athletes, casual runners, and anyone that may be prone to foot problems use functional orthoses.
A functional orthotic device works by pre-positioning the foot into an optimal position prior to landing on the heel when walking or running, and maintaining an optimal range of motion through the gait cycle. This position is typically referred to as the “neutral position” of the subtalar joint, one of the main joints that dictates the movement through the foot.
Many people have a foot-type that is prone to rolling over to the inside of the foot (over-pronation), or a foot-type that puts excessive force on the outside of the foot (supination). By restricting the motion of the foot with a functional orthosis, the muscles, tendons, and ligaments are able to work more efficiently, and the chance of injury is decreased greatly.
If your podiatrist recommends that you wear functional orthoses, there are a few steps that they will take to ensure that your customized pair will fit and work properly.
First, an assessment of the biomechanical function of the body must be attained. This includes measurements of the range of motion in the joints of the foot, ankle, and possibly the knee and hip. Any positional deformities of the lower extremity must be addressed.
Next, your podiatrist will take a cast of your foot. There are a number of ways to do this, but the most popular are usually a plaster cast or a digital scan of your feet. This is referred to as the negative, and will be used to form the orthotic devices.
Different materials are used in different types of patients. Certain materials may be lighter or more durable, and may be indicated for a number of reasons. Weight and activity level are probably the most important factors that will determine which materials to use.
Once the orthotics are made, the most important factor in wearing them is breaking them in properly. The idea of a functional orthotic relies on the foot conforming to the shape of the orthotic device. So in reality, it is not the orthotic that is getting broken in, but rather your foot getting used to the orthotic. Usually your doctor will recommend wearing the orthotics for an hour or two the first day, then gradually adding time each day so that you can get used to the device.
Functional orthoses are commonly used to help relieve and correct foot problems related to biomechanical dysfunction. You can talk to your podiatrist to learn more about functional orthoses, and see if they are right for you!
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www.FLFootandAnkle.com
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