Learn How To Have Orthotics Custom Made To Fit Your Feet Perfectly
If you notice that you consistently have back pain, the support in your shoes may have something to do with it. When your feet are not properly supported, the rest of your body can come out of alignment and cause pain in your back, knees, and even your hips. Custom orthotics are a great option for many people because they provide your feet with the specific support they need to properly align your body. The following guide walks you through what to expect when you meet with your podiatrist to determine if you need to have orthotics or not.
The Evaluation
The first thing that will happen is the podiatrist will take a look at your feet and evaluate the way that your body aligns when you are standing up straight. There are some people who simply need to wear hard orthotics that provide them with arch support so that their feet do not roll in toward their body when they walk. There are some people who have higher arches than typically individuals who require orthotics that have a taller arch in them to provide the right support. The doctor will determine the specific support your feet need to ensure that you are able to walk as comfortably as possible.
The Mold
Next, the podiatrist will make a mold of your foot. The custom-made orthotics will be made to fit your feet specifically. The doctor will need to know exactly how long and how wide your foot is to ensure a proper fit when the orthotics arrive.
The Testing
You will wear the orthotics for a few weeks before the doctor will be able to determine if they are the right height and width for your needs. It is important to realize that the orthotics may make your feet feel a bit tender at first, but this is simply because your feet are not used to getting the support that they need. After a few weeks, your feet should be able to adapt to the change and your body should feel better overall.
Custom-made orthotics can be a bit pricey, depending on the materials that are used to make them. There are some insurance companies that cover the cost of orthotics, if they are deemed to be a necessary investment by a podiatrist. The doctor's office will file a claim with your insurance company to try to get them to cover the cost of the orthotics, but you may still have to pay a portion of the costs out of your own pocket in the end.
Contact healthcare providers like Burnsville Family Physicians to see if orthotics are right for you.