How Arch Support Orthotics Can Help Relieve Foot Pain

By Sharron Cantu


Painful and swollen ankles and feet is a problem very familiar to podiatrists. In most cases the origin of the problem can be traced to the wearing of inappropriate shoes but in many other cases patients suffer from conditions such as flat feet. A surprising number of patients will benefit from the use of special insoles. This arch support orthotics helps patients to maintain a proper posture and this often provide almost immediate relief.

People with fallen insteps experience a wide range of symptoms. In some cases sufferers experience pain constantly. They also have great difficulties standing on their toes and they simply cannot stand upright for long periods. They suffer from swollen feet and ankles and in most cases lower back pain is a constant companion. People with flat feet also find that their shoes wear down unevenly.

There is no cure for flat feet. Insoles remain one of the most effective remedies however. Even if they do not lead to a cure, they still provide immense relief. They are designed to support the arches, helping sufferers to stand up straight. They are freely available over the counter but some patients need custom made insoles if their feet are deformed in any way.

A small number of podiatrists have attempted to cure flat feet by surgically inserting an artificial support device in the ankle. However, the vast majority of podiatrists shun this idea. They describe this operation as irresponsible and very risky. The chances of something going wrong are unacceptably high and the patient will experience constant lifelong pain. The risk is simply not worth it.

There are other things that can help sufferers to relieve the symptoms common to flat feet. Podiatrists advise patients to walk barefoot as often as possible. Efforts should also be made to run on the toes. It is also beneficial to stretch the toes as wide as possible a few times every day. These exercises will strengthen the ligaments and improve the flexibility of the feet.

All babies are born with flat feet. In some people the arches simply fail to develop and they have to live with flat feet. In other cases people develop flat feet later on in life. The tendons along the ankles often weaken with age. Injuries to and inflammation in the tendons can also lead to fallen insteps. Obese people and those suffering from arthritis are particularly prone to developing flat feet.

There are steps that can be taken to prevent the arches from falling. It is imperative to wear the correct shoes at all times. Shoes should always provide proper support and there should be room for the toes to move. Women, especially, should try not to wear high heels for long periods. Sportspeople should also make sure that their footwear is designed to distribute their weight evenly.

Painful feet and ankles can seriously affect the mobility of sufferers. People with flat feet should try to wear special insoles at all times. Care should be taken, however, to use only high quality products manufactured by reputable firms. Any podiatrist can advise on quality brands.




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