Do I Need Orthotic Shoe Inserts?

We’ve been getting this question a lot since we released our blog last week about how your feet could be causing your knee pain.  We’ve also had a lot of questions about our 3D digital foot scanner.  So, today I’m going to go a little deeper and answer some of the most common questions we get about shoe inserts and orthotics. 
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Plus, here's a short video that shows how easy it is to get a 3D digital foot scan.  

The first and most important thing to understand is if the arches in your feet are collapsed (even a little) it can alter the alignment of your ankles, knees, hips, lower back, mid-back, shoulders and neck.  When your joints are not properly aligned the added stress on the joints will cause problems to develop in your joints and your muscles around the joints, which leads to pain and unnecessary wear and tear on your joints, muscles and tendons.     

The arches in your feet are fully developed by age 7, followed by a gradual collapse of your arches throughout your childhood and early adult years.  Then depending on your footwear choices, activity levels, injuries and genetics the arches in your feet can deteriorate even more as you continue to age.   

Who Needs Orthotic Shoe Inserts?

There are A LOT of people who can benefit from orthotic shoe inserts such as people with:

• Knee pain, back pain, shoulder or neck pain that keeps coming back or isn’t fully resolving.

• Plantar fasciitis, heel pain or other foot conditions
• Flat feet or high arches (mild-severe)
• Arthritis
• A history of injuries to their lower legs
• Jobs that involve a lot of standing or walking

A quick test you can do at home is to stand in front of a full-length mirror with bare feet and look at your feet and ankles.  Do your ankles and feet look straight and aligned, or do they roll in?  Also notice if one or both feet turn out.  Next, squat down and pay attention to how your body responds.  Do your ankles roll in even more?

If your answer is yes...your ankles roll in when standing or in a squat, this is a good indication you have issues with your feet and may need orthotic shoe inserts. 

One foot usually responds differently than the other, so most people will require different support for each foot.  This is why custom-made orthotic shoe inserts are the best solution, as opposed to generic off the shelf shoe inserts. 

The absolute best way to confirm if you need orthotics is to come in for a quick (and FREE) assessment of your feet, which includes a 3D digital foot scan.

Click here for more information about our custom orthotics!

What Is A 3D Digital Foot Scan?

It’s a quick, easy and accurate test to determine the severity of pronation in your feet and how your arches may have collapsed over time.  Each scan comes with a Report of Findings with a mapping of your feet that can easily be compared to what an optimal foot should look like. 

If you haven't already, watch the short video above to see how easy it is to get a 3D digital foot scan.

After your foot scan we'll review your unique report of findings with you.  This report shows you your Pronation Stability Index score, which is an objective number based on the severity of your foot pronation.  Scores can range from optimal, to mild, moderate or severe.

Keep in mind your Pronation Stability Index score is just one part of the information used to determine if you need orthotics.  Your physical therapist's assessment of your feet, alignment of your joints and any pain complaints are also taken into consideration.​

​Those in the optimal range probably don’t NEED orthotics, but orthotics can still help them maintain optimal foot health and prevent the problems that come with deterioration of the arches in the feet.
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Anyone in the mild category would certainly be recommended for orthotics to correct any problems that have already developed and prevent progression or worsening of their foot and joint health. 

Custom orthotics would be considered vital for anyone that has a Pronation Stability Index score in the moderate to severe range.  These individuals most likely have pain and imbalances throughout their body that are affecting their health and mobility and NEED orthotics to properly support their feet and joints.

Custom orthotics combined with physical therapy to correct those imbalances may be the best option to finally getting rid of the chronic aches and pains that are preventing you from doing the things you enjoy!

How Do I Get Custom Orthotic Shoe Inserts?

After assessing your feet, completing your 3D digital foot scan, and discussing any pain or joint problems you have, the next step will be to discuss the type of shoes you wear to help you choose the best orthotic type for YOU. 

We have several great options available including orthotics shoe inserts for work boots, dress shoes, athletic shoes, plus specialty options for golfers and long-distance runners.  We even have custom flip flops and sandals available for those who want a great summer shoe option!

Once we have selected the best custom orthotic option for you, your order will be submitted along with your 3D digital foot scan and your custom-made orthotics should arrive within 7-10 days.   

Once your orthotics arrive, we’ll make sure your new custom orthotics are a perfect fit!

Call us today to schedule your FREE foot scan! 

More Ways To Get Our Help

If you’re not quite sure whether orthotics are right for you, and would like more information about your specific problem and your unique situation, you may prefer to start with a FREE In-Person Discovery Visit.  This gives you the opportunity to ask any questions you might have and discover:

• What’s wrong
• What your options are to fix the problem
• How long it might take
• What the cost will be
• How you can speed up the process by doing things at home.

If you would like to take advantage of one of our FREE Discovery Visits, simply click the link below to complete a quick and easy form and we’ll be in touch to arrange a time for your visit.

Click Here To Arrange Your FREE Discovery Visit

There is no obligation!  After your consultation if you decide you want to work with us, great!  We can't wait to see your transformation unfold!  If not, we will try to guide you to the right person to help you. 

You can also check out our other blogs for more helpful tips and advice!
Click Here To Read More Blogs