What are orthotics? 

You may have been recommended orthotics by a health practitioner or a friend. If you have never experienced orthotics before, you may not know what they are or what they do! 

Orthotics 

Orthotics are devices that fit inside of your shoes. They can fit in most shoes that you would currently wear, or they can be used in an orthopaedic shoe. 

Orthotics vs Orthopaedic Shoes 

Orthotics and orthopaedic shoes are very different. The orthotics are inserts that fit into shoes, and orthopaedic shoes are actual shoes. There are also three difference types of orthopaedic shoe categories, which is explained in a previous blog.  

How do orthotics help? 

One of the main goals of an orthotic is to address pain in the lower extremity (ex. feet, knees, hips, lower back). This is done by supporting, correcting, offloading and/or cushioning the foot.  

When the foot is moving outside of what we would see as “normal”, it can lead to pain in the lower extremity. This is because it adds stress and strain to structures like the muscles, ligaments and tendons, and can narrow and compresses joint spaces.  

For example, if the feet are collapsing/rolling in, it can lead to pulled structures under the foot, narrowing the outside knee joint, and pulling at the hip and lower back. A high arch, or feet that roll out, can also create pain. There can be a lack of shock absorption, extra pressure on the ball of the foot, and narrowing the inside knee joint. These are simple ways to describe what may be going on, but there are many different ways that lead to different types of pain.  

There are 26 bones in each foot with 33 joints and 8 phases of the way you are walking. With all this put together, there are many different ways that the foot can impact pain.  

What are the Types of Orthotics? 

There are many different types of orthotics depending on the goal and the type of shoes they are worn in.  

Orthotic stiffness  

The stiffness of the orthotic is determined by the goal of the orthotic. They are categorized into rigid, semi-rigid and soft. A more rigid orthotic can be used when the most amount of control of the foot is necessary. A softer orthotic is used when cushioning and offloading is more of a priority. Arthritis or diabetes can be good candidates for this type of orthotic. A semi-rigid orthotic is a good combination of support/control and cushioning/shock absorption. Many orthotics are designed this way as it addresses both benefits of the rigid and soft orthotics.  

Orthotic Styles 

The style of the orthotic is designed mostly for shoe fit. Orthotic styles can be categorized into full-length, ¾ length or ½ length.  

A full-length orthotic will fit into shoes that have a removable insert. Examples of these shoes are running shoes, walking shoes and some casual shoes. More features can be added to a full-length orthotic because there is more orthotic that can be added to in the length and the width. When we remove the existing insert in the shoe, this provides more room for us to work with. 

A ¾ length orthotic and a ½ length orthotic can fit into almost any shoe. They are designed to fit on top of the existing insole. They are thin to fit into shoes without needing to make room for the orthotic. Less features can be used on these devices, but they are more convenient for people that wear dress shoes most of the day. 

Conclusion 

There are many different orthotics that help with pain in the lower extremity. They work for many different feet and shoes. The best way to determine what is best for you, is to book an appointment!