Top 5 Signs You Need Custom Orthotics in Ottawa

Understanding the Need for Custom Orthotics

Recognizing the signs that you might need custom orthotics is crucial for addressing foot-related issues before they worsen. CURAVITA Health Group’s team of chiropractors and physiotherapists collaboratively identify and treat the underlying causes of foot discomfort, ensuring a comprehensive approach to your health.

The Role of Chiropractors in Diagnosing Foot Issues

Our chiropractors are proficient in identifying the subtle signs of foot misalignments and related issues. Their expertise is instrumental in diagnosing conditions that may benefit significantly from custom orthotics. Custom orthotics can help with: 

Flat Feet (Pes Planus):

• • Custom orthotics can provide arch support and help distribute pressure more evenly, reducing discomfort and fatigue associated with flat feet.

High Arches (Pes Cavus):

• • Individuals with high arches may benefit from custom orthotics that offer cushioning and support to help alleviate strain on the foot’s arch and distribute weight more evenly.

Plantar Fasciitis:

• • This condition involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, causing heel pain. Custom orthotics can provide support and cushioning, reducing strain on the plantar fascia and promoting healing.

Overpronation and Supination:

• • Custom orthotics can help correct issues related to overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot) or supination (insufficient inward rolling), improving gait and reducing the risk of injuries.

Bunions and Hammertoes:

• • Custom orthotics can be designed to accommodate and relieve pressure on bunions and hammertoes, promoting better foot alignment and reducing pain.

Shin Splints:

• • Individuals experiencing shin splints, which is pain along the shinbone, may find relief with custom orthotics that provide shock absorption and support.

Achilles Tendinitis:

• • Custom orthotics can help alleviate strain on the Achilles tendon by providing proper arch support and cushioning, promoting a more natural foot position.

Knee Pain:

• • Conditions such as patellofemoral pain syndrome or osteoarthritis in the knee can be positively impacted by custom orthotics, as they contribute to better alignment and reduced stress on the knee joint.

Back Pain:

• • Improper foot alignment can contribute to back pain. Custom orthotics may help correct biomechanical issues and improve posture, potentially alleviating lower back pain.

Diabetic Foot Conditions:

• • Individuals with diabetes may benefit from custom orthotics designed to reduce pressure points, prevent ulcers, and provide cushioning for sensitive areas.

Sports Injuries and Prevention:

• • Athletes often use custom orthotics to address biomechanical imbalances, enhance performance, and prevent injuries such as stress fractures, shin splints, and Achilles tendonitis.

Children’s Foot Problems:

• • Pediatric conditions like flat feet or in-toeing may be addressed with custom orthotics designed to support the growing feet and address any gait abnormalities.

Physiotherapists’ Perspective on Movement and Comfort

In addition to chiropractic insights, our physiotherapists help identify signs where custom orthotics could enhance your comfort and mobility. They recognize how your foot health impacts your overall movement and daily activities, and see these impacts in the conditions they treat. 

Sign 1: Persistent Foot Pain

One of the most common indicators that you might need custom orthotics is ongoing foot pain, especially if it occurs regularly after standing, walking, or during physical activities. This persistent discomfort often suggests underlying issues that custom orthotics can address.

Chiropractic and Physiotherapy Assessment

Our chiropractors will analyze the structural aspects of your feet while focusing on how these structures affect your movement. Together, they determine if custom orthotics can alleviate your foot pain by providing the necessary support and correction.

Sign 2: Uneven Shoe Wear

If you notice that your shoes wear out unevenly, it could be a sign of improper foot alignment or gait issues. Custom orthotics are designed to correct these imbalances, promoting even wear and extending the life of your shoes.

Sign 3: Frequent Ankle Sprains or Foot Injuries

If you’re experiencing recurrent ankle sprains or foot injuries, it might indicate instability or weakness in your foot and ankle structures. Custom orthotics provide the support and alignment necessary to reduce the risk of further injuries.

Sign 4: Lower Body Pain (Knee, Hip, or Back Pain)

Pain in your lower body, including the knees, hips, or back, can often be traced back to foot issues. Misalignment and improper gait can create a domino effect, leading to pain and discomfort in other body parts. Custom orthotics can help realign your posture and alleviate these pains.

Sign 5: Standing or Walking is Part of Your Daily Routine

For individuals who spend a significant part of their day on their feet, such as retail workers, healthcare professionals, culinary and restaurant staff, hospitalist and event staff, manufacturing and assembly line workers, construction workers, teachers, security guards, hairdressers and barbers, etc., custom orthotics can provide the support and comfort needed to prevent fatigue and discomfort. They are particularly beneficial for professionals in demanding roles or those with active lifestyles.

Your Path to Comfortable Steps

Recognizing these signs and seeking professional advice is the first step towards improved foot health and overall well-being. At CURAVITA Health Group, our collaborative team of chiropractors, physiotherapists, and massage therapists is dedicated to providing personalized care, including custom orthotics tailored to your unique needs. Book an appointment at our Byward clinic or our Glebe clinic to ask any of our healthcare providers in Ottawa to take the first step towards comfortable and healthy movement.

Top 5 Signs You Need Custom Foot Orthotics by Curavita

[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]