Orthotics 101: Our Complete Guide To Custom Orthotics

Written by Bianca Charles on April 22, 2021

Last updated July 25, 2021

[ps2id id=’top’ target=”/]Want more information about custom orthotics? You’ve come to the right place. In this article we will answer the following:

What Are the Benefits of Custom Orthotics?
What Is The Difference Between Custom Orthotics and Over-The-Counter Insoles?
What Types Of Custom Orthotics Can I Get?
What Shoes Can I Put Custom Orthotics In?

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What Are the Benefits Of Custom Orthotics?

Orthotics help to prevent and treat the effects of a variety of structural and functional conditions that affect the feet, which in turn provides pain relief. This is accomplished by supporting the structures of our feet and promoting healthy biomechanics when we move:

The term “biomechanics” refers to the way we move our muscles and joints. You can think of our body’s movement like a machine: it has many components (our muscles, joints, tendons and ligaments) that work together in a certain way – like a team – to help us move. Each component has a role to play, and the way one works affects the others. When one component of the machine doesn’t do its job, the other parts can’t function properly, which can then have an overall impact on the biomechanical “machine” that is our body.

Biomechanics play a crucial role in how we use our feet: Abnormal biomechanics cause an imbalance of muscles in our feet, which leads to a variety of foot conditions. Conversely, a variety of foot issues can lead to abnormal biomechanics. By correcting any biomechanical irregularities, it ensures we are using our muscles the way they were intended to be used when we walk, which in turn will reduce pain and help treat a variety of foot issues. This is where orthotics come into play:

Orthotics are designed to offset the effects of various foot issues and conditions: they support your body weight, encourage healthy biomechanical movement and redistribute pressure evenly along the bottom of the foot. This alleviates any excess strain your condition may have on your muscles and joints – it in essence functions like a replacement part in the machine, so that other parts of the machine can then function properly and not get damaged. Because they are created from plaster molds of your feet, they provide targeted support exactly where you need it.

The customizability of orthotics is also beneficial for structural issues and functional abnormalities in the feet, such as flat feet, high arches, bunions, hammer toes. These issues disrupt our gait and imbalance the joints and muscles in our feet. By reducing muscle imbalances, these foot deformities can be suppressed. [ps2id id=’difference’ target=”/]

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What Is The Difference Between Custom Orthotics and Over-The-Counter Insoles?

Custom orthotics are created from raw materials using a three-dimensional model of your actual feet. In other words, they are built from scratch just for you to meet your specific and unique needs.

With the exception of runner’s orthotics, which are made from a more pliable combination of leather and cork, most custom orthotics are constructed from rigid or semi-rigid high-density plastic or fibreglass, and their primary role is to correct improper alignment of the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments of your feet and ankles in order to prevent and relieve pain and discomfort resulting from musculoskeletal abnormalities, whether genetic, age-related, or the result of ill-fitting shoes or overuse.

Whereas custom orthotics are structured and corrective, over-the-counter insoles offer arch support based on a standard last and a neutral setting. They can be soft or firm and offer comfort and cushioning. If your feet have a visible deformity, excess width, or exhibit ongoing symptoms, a custom device may be a better selection for you.[ps2id id=’types’ target=”/]

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What Types Of Custom Orthotics Can I Get?

Functional orthotics are made with the purpose of functionally changing your gait and stance to improve performance and slow progression of any foot deformity and muscle imbalances caused by biomechanical abnormalities.

Accommodative orthotics are made to accommodate any existing deformity or fat pad loss that cannot be corrected with a functional orthotic. Accommodative devices are made for persons with rigid joints and sometimes arthritis. They are generally softer and work to redistribute pressures that can lead to painful callus and corns or heel fissures.

Orthotics are custom made; all raw materials can be ordered to clinician specifications. They can also be made to take up a certain amount of space in your shoe – this is referred to as “volume”. A “high volume” orthotic takes up more space in the shoe than a “low volume” orthotic.

Below are some common orthotic types and where they would be useful:

Sport Orthotic: If you anticipate running or jumping, you may choose the sport style orthotic. These are also best for those who wear safety shoes. This is a higher volume, full length orthotic that can offer more pronation control or shock absorption if required. The heel cup is deeper, and accommodations can be easily incorporated.
Dress Orthotic: Dress orthotics are designed to be placed in dress shoes. Because dress shoes tend to have less room in them, dress orthotics are often lower volume. They are made thinner, narrower, and sometimes shorter so they can properly fit into your dress shoes without creating bulk.
Accommodative orthotic: Accommodative orthotics are high volume and are made to accommodate rigid joints or foot deformities. Their top cover is usually soft – a commonly used top cover is plastazote, which reduces friction against the foot. They are best suited for orthopedic shoes or other high-volume footwear.
UCBL: UCBL orthotics have a very deep heel cup and are high control. It is made for the severe pronators and requires a high-volume shoe to accommodate the device. They are commonly made for pediatric patients with over pronation.
Casual orthotic: Casual orthotics are made for casual walking and standing. The orthotic can be medium to low volume and is designed to be more easily transferable between shoes.
Orthotics for high impact/distance running: These orthotics are generally made for athletic shoes. They are similar to sport orthotics, but have a more flexible shell and more shock absorption for higher impact.
Orthotics for ski boots: Orthotics for ski boots are thin, and made using a thin, durable material like carbon. They also come with an attached pull tab for easy removal.
Orthotics for skates: Orthotics for hockey or figure skaters are thin and low profile to fit into the skate. A pull tab can be added for easy removal. Antimicrobial (bamboo) top covers can be an option.
Orthotics for cleats: Orthotics for cleats are low profile and more flexible to enhance foot performance during sport. Cleats with removable insoles work best for these types of orthotics [ps2id id=’shoes’ target=”/]

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What Shoes Can I Put Custom Orthotics In?

Custom orthotics can be made for nearly every type of shoe including:

Sneakers – these casual shoes can accommodate a medium sized orthotic with moderate control
Dress shoes – these low-profile shoes require a very thin and narrow device. Sometimes the shorter orthotic fits better
High heels – these low-profile shoes require a very thin and narrow device. Sometimes the shorter orthotic fits better
Hiking boots – this is a high-volume shoe that should be able to accommodate a high volume orthotic
Ski boots – this is a device created specifically for ski boots, focusing on a low volume, durable device
Hockey skates – orthotics are generally thin and durable offering ankle and foot control with skating
Sandals – sandal orthotics are custom built for a specific sandal model and would require either a cork footbed or a removable footbed
Athletic shoes – these high-volume shoes can accommodate the highest control orthotic
Safety shoes – these high-volume shoes can accommodate the highest control orthotic

Click here for more information on how you can get your custom orthotics at Feet First Clinic. Book your assessment today with the booking form below or contact us at 416-769-FEET(3338) – no referral required.

Everything You Need for Healthy Feet - All Under One Roof

At Feet First Clinic, we’re always excited to welcome new clients! We’re Toronto’s one-stop-shop for all your foot-related needs. For 15 years, our staff and licensed chiropodists have been helping people with their feet. From foot care to foot pain to foot products – we do it all! Give us a call to ask our friendly staff any questions you may have! Our Toronto foot specialists are ready to help!

Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!

About Author: Bianca Charles

With 15 years of dedicated experience in podiatry, Bianca Carter offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise at Feet First Clinic. Throughout her career, Bianca has worked closely with leading chiropodists, continually deepening her understanding of all aspects of foot care.

Learn more about Bianca Charles

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November 14, 2024

3 Tips to Prevent Winter Foot Injuries

Foot injuries can increase in cold weather, so it’s important to learn how to minimize your risk, practice fall prevention, and navigate slippery conditions. Not only that, but cold weather can cause muscle stiffness to worsen, making your feet more vulnerable than they were during the warmer months. Today we’ll talk about 3 safety tips—recommended by the foot specialists at our Toronto foot clinic—to prevent winter foot injuries. 3 Tips to Prevent Winter Foot Injuries Wear The Right Shoes Try Warm Ups and Foot Exercises Wear Supportive Insoles 1. Wear The Right Shoes The wrong winter boots can lead to numerous foot injuries. While fashion may be your top priority, you shouldn’t sacrifice protective and supportive features just for looks (plus, you can find fashionable and comfortable shoes at our Toronto foot clinic). Winter footwear should have good shock absorption and be made with waterproof materials. Avoid pointed toes and high heels in the winter—these features are a recipe for slips and falls! Stability And Motion Control Shoes Did you know there are different foot types, and your foot type can determine what shoes you should wear? For example, people with flat feet need extra stability or motion control features built into their shoes to help correct varying degrees of overpronation (when the ankle rolls inward during movement). A foot specialist, like a podiatrist or chiropodist, can assess your feet and tell you what type shoes you should be wearing: Stability Shoes Purpose: Stability shoes are aimed at those with mild to moderate overpronation (the inward rolling of the foot when walking or running). Features: These shoes typically have a supportive structure and posting around the arch and midsole to help guide the foot through a natural gait cycle and promote natural foot motion. Motion Control Shoes Purpose: These are designed for people with severe overpronation, providing maximum support to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot. Features: Motion control shoes are more rigid and structured than stability shoes, with reinforced areas in the midsole. How does this link back to winter foot safety? If you have flat feet, especially if you’re a senior, and your feet overpronate, your hips, knees and ankles can weaken and become more painful and vulnerable due to years of walking with an abnormal gait. If you don’t have strong feet and joints, icy conditions become that much more threatening. Both stability and motion control shoes can help prevent winter foot injuries by providing extra support and control in conditions where icy, wet, or uneven surfaces make slips and strains more likely. Keep in mind these should also have solid traction performance! https://www.youtube.com/shorts/TnDaLrqYTac Traction Performance High traction performance in shoes (thick, rubber soles with grooves) is essential for winter injury prevention. It prevents slips and falls, which are especially common on icy or wet surfaces. Without reliable traction, even the smallest patch of ice can turn into a serious hazard, causing the foot to slide out from under the body and throwing balance off entirely. This can lead to falls, which are a primary cause of winter injuries, including sprains, fractures, and ligament tears in the foot, ankle, or knee. Good traction provides a stable, controlled grip on unpredictable surfaces, allowing each step to connect firmly with the ground. This stability reduces the risk of unexpected slips and ensures that the foot can maintain contact without sliding, even on slippery patches. People who enjoy running during the winter months should particularly focus on finding running shoes with traction. Many brands, like Saucony or ASICS, design shoes for this purpose. You can also add on ice cleats or cramp-ons to your footwear for extra grip when running on icy surfaces. When looking for traction performance, keep in mind that no shoes are built for traction on ice (although some may fare better than others). Only ice cleats or cramp-ons will provide proper grip on ice. 2. Try Warm-ups And Foot Exercises Before going for a run, warm up your feet and lower extremities with a nice, healthy stretch or foot exercise. This will prepare your feet for pounding the pavement (or snow) and give them an added layer of strength and protection. Runners should be doing this year round as part of their foot care routine, not just during the winter! These routines are not just for runners! Quite the opposite, in fact; they help people with mobility constraints and inflamed, weakened and damaged muscles/joints just as much as they do athletes. People with arthritis in the feet, plantar fasciitis and other conditions can help reduce their risk of winter injuries by strengthening their feet. For example, arthritis can lead to joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, making it challenging to maintain balance on slippery or uneven surfaces. On the other hand, plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot. The discomfort may lead to altered walking mechanics, such as favoring one foot over the other, which can compromise stability and increase the risk of falls. Stretches and exercises should target the intrinsic (small, stabilizing muscles located within the foot) and extensor muscles (primarily found in the lower leg), and your ankles. Your routine should include a variety of movements that target as many muscle groups as possible. Here are a few easy, effective stretches and exercises you can start today: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/gOwgyrmU6hM Toe Splays: While seated or standing, spread (or "splay") your toes as wide apart as possible, holding for a few seconds, then releasing. Repeat this 10–15 times per foot. Toe Flex and Raise: Stand with toes planted and lift the heels off the ground. This exercise strengthens the lower leg and foot muscles, improving balance and stability on icy surfaces. Ankle Circles: Sit or stand and slowly rotate each ankle in circles, first clockwise and then counterclockwise. This helps increase ankle mobility and flexibility, which can reduce the risk of sprains. Seated Hamstring Stretch: Sit on a chair, extend one leg straight in front. Lean forward slowly until you feel the stretch in your hamstring. Hold for about 30 seconds. In addition, click here for part 1 and part 2 for the best exercises for arthritis, and here for the best exercises for plantar fasciitis. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/AsuUXJYnUmQ The Importance of Balance We all know the direct link between losing your balance and sustaining an injury. We also know that people with disabilities or conditions that impact mobility need to be extra vigilant. With every step, strong balance allows you to react as quickly as possible to unexpected changes in winter terrain and surfaces, which will keep you safe. Here are two simple foot exercises that focus on improving balance: Single-Leg Stands: Stand on one foot for 20–30 seconds, then switch. This exercise builds balance and strengthens the muscles around the ankle, reducing the risk of falls on uneven surfaces. Heel-to-Toe Walk: Walk in a straight line, placing the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the other. This exercise improves balance and strengthens stabilizing muscles. 3. Wear Supportive Insoles Winter footwear is typically built for the elements - not for comfort. Therefore, it can be very difficult to find a supportive winter boot that will also protect your feet from winter weather. Fortunately, if you wear a supportive insole with your footwear, you won't need to sacrifice comfort for function. There are two types of supportive insoles you can wear with winter footwear: customer orthotics and over-the-counter insoles. Custom Orthotics Custom orthotics are designed to fit the unique contours of an individual's feet, helping to redistribute pressure and provide the necessary arch support. This is especially beneficial for individuals with flat feet or other conditions. Add winter to the mix, and this becomes even more crucial. By optimizing foot alignment, custom orthotics help maintain stability and balance, allowing individuals to navigate slippery surfaces with greater confidence. Custom orthotics can be made to fit in winter boots or winter running shoes, to keep your foot supported in all scenarios. They can even come in half-lengths to accommodate dress shoes for when you’re leaving the office and heading to your car (slippery sidewalks are everywhere in winter, so you can’t be too careful!). They provide cushioning that absorbs impact and reduces strain on the joints, particularly the ankles and knees, which are crucial during winter activities like walking, shoveling snow, or participating in winter sports. To learn if you can benefit from custom orthotics, you can consult a foot specialist like a chiropodist or a podiatrist. Check out these resources on custom orthotics to learn even more: 5 Ways Orthotics Can Be Customized for Maximum Comfort and Support The Role of Orthotics in Supporting Foot Health and Correcting Alignment Understanding Different Types of Custom Orthotics: How to Choose the Right Support for Your Feet https://www.youtube.com/shorts/IBXAXoUouFY Over-the-Counter Insoles (Superfeet) Over-the-counter insoles, like Superfeet, are also a great option to upgrade your winter footwear. Superfeet insoles have a deep heel cup, pronounced arch and a rigid, durable structure. They come in a variety of arch heights and cushioning levels to accommodate many foot conditions, like high arches, flat feet, plantar fasciitis and more! Whereas custom orthotics are custom-designed to your foot, Superfeet come in standard sizes and designs (each representing a different colour). They therefore can be more economical than custom orthotics. If you're interested in Superfeet insoles, bring your winter shoes to our Toronto foot clinic. You can then try different Superfeet options to see which one works best for you. Different insoles feel different in different shoes, so we strongly recommend trying on your Superfeet with your winter shoes before purchasing them.

October 7, 2024

5 Ways Orthotics Can Be Customized for Maximum Comfort and Support

Many people don’t know what goes into their custom orthotics – not just the materials, but the technology that creates a comfortable orthotic. In this post, learn about all the different accomodations and orthotic customizations available to make your feet happy! https://www.youtube.com/shorts/IBXAXoUouFY?feature=share What Are Orthotic Customizations and Accomodations Additions and Accommodations are very common parts of custom orthotics. They are used if a normal over-the-counter insole just won’t cut it. For example, if a patient has a neuroma or a misaligned gait, an orthotic without custom support won’t have anywhere near the same effectiveness. Here is a list of the most common orthotic customizations and accommodations for custom orthotics. Heel Modifications Firstly we have heel modifications. These are some of the most common additions to keep your feet comfortable and supported: Cushion – Adds additional padding and shock absorption on the heel. Heel cushions cover the whole heel. Cushioning the heel is helpful for a variety of foot conditions, like plantar fasciitis and arthritis. It essentially reduces the strain and impact of your step. Lift – Heel lifts can balance out differences in leg height and to prevent overpronation or supination. They can also be used to help with Achillies tendonitis. They're made of a harder material for balance. Hole – Heel holes are used to help with heel spurs. Cushioning can be added to increase comfort and distribute pressure in the heel. Seat – A Heel seat gives the patient more control if they overpronate. It's designed to hold the fatty tissue under the calcaneus in place. Metatarsal Modifications These orthotic customizations are designed to take pressure off of your metatarsals (the ball of your foot). They are helpful for anyone experiencing foot pain at the ball of their foot just below the toes. 1st Ray Cutout - Helps to offload pressure off 1st metatarsal head (the big toe). This is used to help with bunions and arthritis. 2-4 Metatarsal Pad – This is a teardrop shaped pad that sits below the metatarsals. It takes some of the load off the metatarsals by offloading pressure at ball of foot and elevating the second, third, and fourth metatarsals. Metatarsal Bar – This is similar to 2-4 metatarsal pads, but has more surface area and offloads more pressure from the metatarsal heads. It can provide more stress relief in some cases. Neuroma Pad – This is a small pad that sits between metatarsals and spreads them apart. It is designed to correct the transverse arch and help with pain in the metatarsals. As the name suggests, it is can help people experiencing a Morton's neuroma. Arch Support Moving on, we have arch support, which is important for everyone - regardless of whether you have a foot condition - but moreso for people who struggle with plantar fasciitis and arch pain. Arch Pad – Additonal support on the arch for patients who need more arch support. Fill – Arch fills make the orthotic more rigid. This is used to help the orthotic to support more weight. It can also be used to help somewhat with controlling the midtarsal joints. Additional Accommodations Finally, we have modifications that don't really fit into the previous categories. These are all very common additions that are often put in orthotics: Morton’s Extension – Extra length under 1st metatarsal to keep it rigid. It helps during the push off phase of gait and can be rigid if patient has hallux rigidus or limitus. It immobilizes and offsets pressure on the first met joint. Reverse Morton’s – This increases the mobility of the first met joint. The pad sits under the 2nd to the 5th met head and ends before the first. Dancer Pad – Offloads the ball of the foot. It works by taking weight off of the big toe joint and dispersing it. Scaphoid Pad - This is used to help support the mid and back foot. Helps take pressure off the joints and bones in the arch. While these are the most common accommodations found on orthotics, there are many more! To learn more about how orthotics can be modified and customized to suit your unique foot needs, check out this Website. What Orthotic is Right For Me? A licensed chiropodist can determine what orthotic customizations and features are best for you. The chiropodist would first do a biomechanical assessment and gait analysis. They'll then diagnose your foot condition and make recommendations. Remember - orthotics are just one part of the equation when it comes to treating foot pain. While they can be beneficial for many common foot conditions, it's recommended to also explore other treatment options first, like supportive footwear, exercises and stretches. If your chiropodist recommends orthotics, they'll discuss the different options and customizations available, and which ones will work best for your foot condition. They'll also take into account your activities and the footwear you'd be wearing the orthotics with. The chiropodist will then take a 3D scan of your foot and send it off to the lab to make your orthotics. You would then see the chiropodist a few weeks later for a fitting appointment, at which time the chiropodist will check that the orthotics are constructed properly and working the way they should. If everything checks out, you can take them home! We also recommend coming back about 6 to 8 weeks after your fitting for a follow-up appointment to see if your orthotics are helping with your foot pain. If they aren't, the chiropodist can modify the orthotics. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/pO5oWb6S5MA?feature=share

September 26, 2024

The Role of Orthotics in Supporting Foot Health and Correcting Alignment

Orthotics are supportive, custom devices designed to improve the alignment and function of the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. They aim to address specific issues like flat feet, overpronation, or arch support. This can help alleviate discomfort and prevent injuries by redistributing pressure and correcting abnormal movement patterns. Adequately fitted orthotics can significantly enhance comfort and mobility, making daily activities more manageable and pain-free. Custom orthotics can make a big difference, but how exactly do orthotics correct foot alignment? And how do they work? Let's explain. What are orthotics? Orthotics are specialized, custom-designed insoles that you place inside your shoes. They come in many forms, and are molded and constructed specific to your unique foot needs. Their main job is to support and correct the alignment of your feet, which can help address various foot and lower limb issues. They essentially promote healthy biomechanics to ensure your body moves the way it's designed to. Orthotics are custom-made specifically for your feet by a chiropodist (foot specialist). The chiropodist will do a biomechanical and gait analysis, and then take a mold of your foot (typically with a 3D digital scanner). The chiropodist then custom-designs the orthotics according to your specific needs, and a lab then constructs the orthotics according to the chiropodist's instructions. It's important to note that while orthotics can be beneficial, they may not be suitable for everyone and can have some drawbacks, such as initial discomfort and the need for regular maintenance. Custom orthotics are more expensive than over-the-counter options, but they are an investment in your future — they may allow you to avoid more severe issues and chronic pain long-term, and can address foot concerns that over-the-counter insoles cannot. Not to mention, they are longer-lasting. How orthotics correct foot alignment? Orthotics are meant to modify how your foot moves and distributes pressure. They can help with several conditions, including: Flat feet: Orthotics can support fallen arches to maintain and prop up the natural contours of your foot. High arches: When you have high arches, excessive pressure is placed over a very small area of your foot. Orthotics help by cushioning and distributing pressure more evenly. If pressure is unevenly distributed across your feet, you're at a higher risk of overworking neighbouring parts of your foot. Overpronation: If your feet roll inward too much when you walk or run (called "overpronation), orthotics can help correct this movement. They do this by creating a barrier to your foot's inward movement, which corrects the overpronation. (Interesting fact: people with flat feet are prone to overpronation, so the treatment for the two conditions is often the same). Heel pain: Orthotics can reduce the strain on the plantar fascia and help alleviate heel pain. By correcting foot alignment, orthotics can provide significant relief from pain and prevent future issues. The feet are our body's foundation, so when your feet are moving properly, it helps the rest of our body move properly. That allows muscles and joints to work the way they were designed to without being over-stressed. This then helps reduce pain - not only in our feet, but the rest of our body too! Types of orthotics There are many different types of orthotics designed for different footwear and activities. Click here to learn more! Benefits beyond pain relief Orthotics don't just help with pain—they can also play a proactive role in enhancing overall foot and body health. Proper alignment can lead to better posture, reduced knee and hip stress, and improved gait. Athletes often use orthotics to boost performance by optimizing foot mechanics, which then reduces the strain on the rest of their joints. How to choose the right orthotics If you're considering orthotics, here's what to keep in mind: Consult a professional: A chiropodist can help determine if you need custom orthotics through a biomechanical assessment. They can then prescribe, design and fit your orthotics based on your activities and specific foot concerns. A chiropodist may also recommend footwear and over-the-insole options to test out first before going the custom route. Consider your activities: Choose orthotics that match your lifestyle. For instance, if you're a runner, look for ones designed to absorb shock and provide stability. If you work in a setting with a formal dress code, you may want to opt for slimmer dress orthotics that will fit into your dress shoes. Look at the full picture: Orthotics alone likely won't solve all your foot concerns. They're just part of the equation. You'll also want to ensure your wearing proper footwear and maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle. If you have chronic pain or a conditions like arthritis, regular exercise and stretching is very important to build strength in your feet and ankles. Orthotics are essentially meant to supplement a healthy lifestyle - not substitute it. How to get the most out of your orthotics Once you have your orthotics, wear them regularly to see the best results. They take some time to get used to, so gradually increase the time you wear them daily. Also, remember that orthotics are just one part of foot health—maintaining a proper exercise routine and suitable footwear are equally important. To ensure the longevity of your orthotics, clean them regularly and follow any specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer or your chiropodist.

September 23, 2024

Preparing Your Feet for Fall: Essential Tips for Comfort and Support

The leaves are starting to change colour and the temperatures are taking a dip! What does that mean for your feet? A lot! Seasonal changes have a big impact on our foot health, which is why it's important to prepare your feet for fall — especially if you have a foot condition. To help you our, we compiled our Toronto foot specialists' top foot care tips for fall to keep your feet comfortable and healthy as you transition into cooler days. From selecting the right footwear to vigilant skin care, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping you cozy and supported. Moisturizing, Skin Care and Protection We all get thirsty, and the same thing happens to your skin — especially when the summer’s humidity is replaced with colder air that prevents it from retaining moisture. One of the best ways to prepare your feet for fall is by focusing on hydrating your skin. Moisturizing your feet regularly will help you fight painful issues, like cracked heels. Incorporate a rich foot cream, like Gehwol’s Salve for Cracked Skin, if you notice dry cracks in your heels. For a more preventative approach, moisturize every day to lock in moisture and keep your skin soft, and then exfoliate to remove dead skin cells. This lets the moisturizer penetrate deeply. Try the universally beneficial Soft Feet Cream from Gehwol; it binds moisture to the deepest layers of the skin and strengthens its natural defence. Learn more with our comprehensive moisturizing guide. Fall Shoe Tips and Supportive Fall Footwear Cold air can exacerbate foot pain by messing with your blood circulation. Healthy shoes can help offset this and make a world of difference. Look for cozy fall boots, ideal for everyday wear. These include ankle boots with sturdy soles, a solid grip to prevent falls, good arch support, and cushioning. Additionally, consider shoes made from waterproof materials, like Gore-Tex fabric, to protect against the elements. Not only will this help with fall foot comfort, but it will also keep your feet dry and warm as the weather cools down. Damp feet can cause issues like infections and foot odour. For those extra cold days, you should wear boots with soft materials, like fleece or shearling, for insulation against the cold. You never know when the snow falls and below-zero temperatures will begin, so having a pair of boots like this ready to wear is always wise. Lastly, your fall shoes might work even better if you wear them with custom orthotics or high-quality Superfeet insoles. Ask your chiropodist if they can help you. Our Toronto foot clinic is known for our excellent shoe shopping tips, particularly for the fall and winter. We can also provide a complimentary shoe fitting service for when you don’t know where to start with your fall shoe hunting. Foot Conditions Requiring Extra Care in Fall If you have arthritis or diabetes, fall foot care is even more important. That's why one of our top fall foot care tips is to pay close attention to your foot health and regularly visit your chiropodist so they can keep an eye on your feet - especially if you have vulnerable feet. Arthritis sufferers may find that the cold exacerbates joint stiffness and pain. The lower temperatures can cause muscles to tighten, putting additional strain on already sensitive joints. For people with diabetes, the reduced blood circulation can be extra dangerous and worsen the body’s already compromised healing abilities. Ulcers, infections and even frostbite can be big problems during the chilly months.

September 16, 2024

Understanding Different Types of Custom Orthotics: How to Choose the Right Support for Your Feet

You may have heard of custom orthotics before, (if not, check out this article) but did you know that there are many different types of custom orthotics? Orthotics range from sports orthotics to dress orthotics, and everything in between. In this article we will cover the different types of custom orthotics you can choose, and what might be best for your feet. Custom Orthotics Custom Orthotics are the most common type of orthotic. Easily accessible and slipped into shoes, these provide maximum support and can help with foot problems like plantar fasciitis or Morton’s neuroma. Custom orthotics are also ideal simply if you want more comfort and support when walking around during everyday tasks. All of the orthotics below are some kind of custom orthotic. You can also find many examples of these orthotics on this website. Sports Orthotics These orthotics are ideal for people who are often running, jumping, and doing high impact activates on a regular basis. Sports orthotics can be easily modified to fit the sport you're doing. For example, if you were a basketball player who Is doing lots of jumping, the orthotic would be made with extra shock absorption. Sports orthotics are designed to help with common sports conditions like plantar fasciitis. They are made semi-rigid to provide the optimal balance between comfort and control. Casual Orthotics If you enjoy going on walks but often have pain in your feet, casual orthotics may be the way to go. These orthotics are meant for walking and standing for long periods of time and can provide comfort that you may not otherwise get from your regular shoes. Casual Orthotics are also great because they are easy to transfer between shoes and are low profile, meaning they're relatively, so you can wear them with shoes that don't have removable insoles. Casual orthotics are typically rigid or semi-rigid depending on your foot condition. Dress Orthotics Like casual orthotics, dress orthotics are meant for long periods of standing and walking. The main difference between the two is the size. Dress orthotics are designed to be slimmer and fit into the smaller shape of dress shoes. Because of the limited space, some orthotics may have to sacrifice width and support; however they will still provide relief from uncomfortable shoes. Accommodative Orthotics: Accommodative orthotics are designed for people that have more severe issues with foot pain and comfort. This can include arthritis, foot deformities, and diabetes. They tend to have a soft and cushioned top cover. These orthotics are mostly flexible to be nicer on the feet, however they can also be semi-rigid if the user needs more control. Children's Orthotics Childrens orthotics differ from adults because children are growing constantly. Often, children are prescribed orthotics to correct an issue that would be present in their adult life if not corrected. Children may get several different pairs of orthotics as they grow older to accomodate their changing feet. Children's orthotics are made for comfort as well as correction, so that your little one can be comfortable running around. Conclusion There are many different types of orthotics available that can easily accomodate your footwear and activities. They're also a great way to upgrade your favourite shoes. Whether you want comfort or control, there is always an option for you.

September 12, 2024

Exploring Different Types of Foot Arch Pain and How to Alleviate Them

Looking to end your stint with foot arch pain? You've come to the right place. This post explores different kinds of arch pain, what causes it, and our top tips for foot arch pain relief. Plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia (the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot) becomes inflamed. It typically causes sharp pain in the heel and arch, especially in the morning or after periods of rest. Cause: Repeated stress on the feet, especially from high-impact activities, can strain the arch and lead to pain. Increased body weight can also stress the feet more, leading to arch pain and discomfort. Finally, shoes lacking adequate arch support or cushioning and poorly fitted shoes can exacerbate foot pain. How to alleviate pain: Rest, recovery and ice are the first things you should do to alleviate plantar fasciitis. The next step is to invest in footwear with proper arch support and cushioning. You can also upgrade your existing footwear with insoles or orthotic inserts designed for arch support. Custom orthotics help redistribute pressure in your foot and reduce strain on the arch. Stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia can also reduce inflammation and arch pain associated with plantar fasciitis.. High arches People with high arches often experience discomfort in the arch and heel due to insufficient shock absorption. This condition can lead to an imbalance in foot mechanics, causing pain in various parts of the foot. Cause: Genetic factors can play a role in high arches. How to alleviate pain: Cushioned, supportive shoes and insoles can help manage arch pain associated with high arches. Look for footwear with ample cushioning and arch support to alleviate discomfort. Flat feet Also known as fallen arches, flat feet affects the arch's ability to properly support a person's body weight, which then leads to arch pain. Flat feet can cause many biomechanical issues, which can lead to overpronation (where the foot rolls inward excessively), plantar fasciitis, and many other foot conditions, all of which contribute to foot and ankle pain. Cause: Like high arches, genetic factors can play a role in flat feet. Flat feet can predispose individuals to certain types of foot pain. How to alleviate pain: Proper arch support is key for foot arch pain relief. People with flat feet should look for stability shoes. These shoes are specially designed to correct overpronation and properly support the arch. Custom orthotics can also significantly support fallen arches. They're tailored to your foot's needs and help improve alignment and pain. You can get custom orthotics at our foot clinic by booking an Orthotic Assessment appointment with one of our licensed chiropodists.

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Orthotics 101: Our Complete Guide To Custom Orthotics

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