Your feet and the MSK connection
Having your spine aligned and body balanced is key to pain-free, active living. Your feet are the foundation to your musculoskeletal (MSK) chain and if your foundation is weak, the rest of your body can suffer. The human foot is a complex mechanical machine with 26 bones, 33 joints and more than 100 tendons, ligaments and muscles! Happy feet provide the proper support necessary to carry you in your day.
What are orthotics
Custom foot orthotics are custom-made foot supports designed uniquely for your feet. They are intended to fit comfortably in your shoe(s) to optimize the alignment and correction of foot function, and enhance the performance and biomechanics of your feet and body. Custom foot orthotics support the foot and entire body. They help alleviate the pain and dysfunction that may occur from flat feet, work related stresses such as standing all day, walking, running, cycling and other physical activities.
Contrary to popular belief, custom foot orthotics are anything but clunky and uncomfortable. Over the years, orthotic technology has come a long way and today’s custom orthotics are comfortable, thinner and stronger. They add very little weight to a shoe and the resulting comfort can be quite remarkable. At CURAVITA, we take pride in using the latest technology and a Canadian lab in producing custom orthotics to accommodate the unique foot needs of each patient.
Who can benefit from custom foot orthotics
Anyone can benefit from custom foot orthotics. For example, flat feet alter the ideal mechanics in the foot, which can translate to pain in the knees, hips and lower back. Foot disorders are extremely common and often linked to pain and limited mobility throughout the body. Painful foot conditions are often a warning sign that can lead to other issues or complications up the MSK chain. If left untreated, foot pain can leave your body compensating causing pain elsewhere, increase risk of injuries and misalignments. Proper foot alignment is an essential component of optimal health, independence and can drastically improve quality of life.
Custom foot orthotics can address a number of MSK problems, which include:
Toe, arch and/or heel pain, leg length discrepancies, plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, Achilles tendonitis, bunions, flat feet, recurring ankle sprains, osteoarthritis, Morton’s neuroma, shin splints, knee, hip, and back pain
Custom foot orthotics provide both short and long-term benefits. Most people notice relief quite quickly once they start wearing their orthotics. Incorporating orthotics into your daily routine when necessary, can decrease wear and tear, pain, prevent injury and keep you active doing the things your love. When your daily activities and footwear vary, a second pair of custom foot orthotics can help you adjust to your routine without compromising activity. Building a strong healthy foundation often begins at the feet.
Are custom foot orthotics covered under personal insurance?
Most extended health care plans include some coverage for custom foot orthotics. Many extended health care plans run on a calendar year and the amount of coverage will vary from plan to plan. Some plans may require a medical doctor’s prescription for orthotics, so be sure to check your policy and stay informed.
Your chiropractor can help
If you have foot pain, think you may need orthotics, and are not sure where to start, contact us at CURAVITA to learn more about custom foot orthotics and whether or not they are the right fit for you. Your chiropractor will assess your feet and conduct an examination to determine if custom orthotics are necessary for you. Our model of patient centred care in a collaborative multi-disciplinary environment will ensure you receive the right care, at the right time and in the right place.