07 Oct Common Myths About Orthotic Insoles
Most people believe that orthotic insoles are used only by the elderly, but this is a fallacy. Many other common misconceptions and myths are floating around about insoles and orthotics. It’s why we have decided to debunk some of them here. Orthotic insoles are thin, medical braces that are inserted into the shoe to improve and support foot function. They are practical yet discreet, which makes them an ideal solution for many foot anatomies and conditions
Busting Common Myths
Myth 1 – Only Old People Need Orthotic Insoles
Fact: Orthotics aren’t just for the elderly or for those that need to wear ungainly orthopaedic footwear. People of any age can suffer from foot problems. Health conditions, such as diabetes and arthritis, can affect anyone. Individuals that have these pain-related conditions can benefit significantly from orthotic insoles.
Insoles are used to treat and prevent various foot conditions that young children, teenagers, adults, and the elderly suffer from. Insoles can be customised, which means any existing or new footwear can be fitted very discreetly with insoles.
Tip: You must carry your orthotics with you when you go shoe-shopping. It can help to ensure that you have a very comfortable fit and that the orthotics are discreet in your new footwear.
Myth 2 – There Is No Difference Between Standard Store-Bought Inserts And Prescription Orthotic Insoles
Fact: Every person has different feet and different problems. This is why you need to opt for customised orthotics that are designed to address your specific condition. They need to fit your feet well and be comfortable too. Experienced podiatrists can prescribe custom corrective orthotics.
They will first carry out a gait analysis as well as a detailed assessment of your lower legs and feet and prescribe the right orthotics for you. These prescription orthotics provide the right amount of support and cushioning to the feet. No mass-produced orthotics available at retail footwear stores can meet individual specifications. When you use these, you risk facing more damage and discomfort to your hips, knees, feet, and back.
Myth 3 – Customised Orthotics Are Very Expensive
Fact: On the face of it, standard, mass-produced, OTC orthotics are cheaper than customised products. However, OTC foot insoles aren’t as resilient and long-lasting as customised ones, and that means the former prove to be more expensive over time. Without help from a skilled and knowledgeable podiatrist, you might end up purchasing ill-fitting and incorrect products which could impact your foot condition rather than improving it. When you consult a podiatrist and get a biomedical assessment done before getting and prescription orthotic, it saves you money over the long term.
Myth 4 – You do not need any follow-up appointments once you get custom orthotics
Fact: Like any other treatments, follow-ups are a vital aspect of any orthotic treatment. Once you have gotten your custom orthotics, the podiatrist will ask you to come in for another visit after you have worn the insoles for some time.
This follow-up visit helps them check whether the insoles are working as they should. In addition to prescribing custom orthotics, the podiatrist will also create a stretching and strengthening program that will help with your condition. Check-ups are a way to track your progress and alter your treatment regime if necessary.
When you are getting custom orthotics, you need to make sure that you first consult a certified and experienced podiatrist. We offer excellent, tailored treatment options for various feet-related problems. For information on our podiatry services, at Sydney Sports Podiatry, feel free to contact us at either one of our locations.
Thanks for reading,
Sydney Sports Podiatry
1300 474 306