Our feet are often taken for granted, but when you think about it they are our main form of transport!

They are the foundation of our body and play a crucial role in our stability, particularly the pelvis and the spine. Biomechanical dysfunctions of the feet can lead to issues ranging from heel pain through to hip and spinal problems.

‘Pronation’ is the part of walking and running that allows your body to absorb the shock of contact with the ground. As your foot hits the ground, it locks slightly to absorb shock and allow your foot to stabilise itself to propel forward for the next step. However, sometimes your foot rolls too far inward, known as overpronation, causing lower body pain in areas such as your legs, knees, hips and even your spine.

Factors that can contribute to overpronation:

Tendinitis: inflammation of the tendons of the feet
Arthritis
Being overweight/obese
Lifestyle changes
Aging

If overpronation is left unchecked the following degenerative foot conditions can occur:

Flat Feet or Fallen Arches
Plantar Fasciitis or Heel Pain
Bunions
Tendonitis
Neuromas
Shin Splints
Arthritis
Corns & calluses
Lower Back, Hip & Knee Pain

How can Orthotics help?

Orthotic shoe inserts are a functional device designed to cushion, cup and correct the way your feet work. They work by helping to –

Raise and support arches
Realign the feet and ankles to help restore full foot action
Redistributes your weight more evenly over your foot to help relieve the pressure on the sensitive spots on your feet.

The Benefit of Custom-Made Orthotics

Although generic pre-moulded insoles are available in stores; depending on your particular condition a specific custom-measured and fitted orthotic, tailored to your unique needs is strongly recommended. In many cases, there may be a difference between one foot and the other one. Custom-made insoles will definitely address this, whereas regular ones won’t.

There are numerous types of orthotics available, however the most common ones are:

Heel Lifts – Generally used for Achilles Tendinitis and uneven leg lengths
Lateral wedges – Used to ‘train’ a foot that excessively supinates (turns or rotates)
Metatarsal pads – Treat Morton’s Neuroma & metatarsalgia
Arch Fillers – Treat Plantar Fasciitis and runner’s’ knee

If you think you may need Orthotics or would like more information, contact us today 07 5535 9833. Our chiropractors at Empowering Wellness Burleigh can do a thorough assessment of your feet and determine whether you will benefit from Footlevelers custom-made orthotics. A 3D foot scan analyses your feet and shows how the likes of collapsed arches impact your pelvis and spine.

Our team of chiropractors and holistic therapists embrace traditional knowledge in conjunction with modern technology tools to treat clients in the best way possible. In addition to orthotics, we also provide state-of-the-art structural support products to aid correct spinal alignment including sports tape, back rests and much more. Click here to learn more details about Wellness Technologies.