“Orthotics” is a broad term used to describe a variety of specialized supports and shoe inserts.
Orthotics
At Renew Health & Wellness, our goal is to help all our patients improve their quality of living. We provide natural, drug-free, and non-invasive services to reduce and eliminate signs and symptoms of physiological dysfunction. To do this, we draw on both our extensive clinical experience and current best evidence to guide our approach to chiropractic care. Sometimes, best care involves the correct use and prescription of “orthotics.”
What Are Orthotics?
“Orthotics” is a broad term used to describe a variety of specialized supports and shoe inserts. Their primary purpose is to correct structural problems in a person’s feet. Orthotics may be built into a supportive shoe, but they can also be designed to slip easily into shoes. Some orthotic inserts are pre-fabricated and bought over the counter at drugstores. However, custom-made orthotics (designed by a licensed healthcare professional, such as a chiropractor) are much more comfortable and effective because they are individualized to a person’s unique foot shape and size. Orthotics can be flexible or rigid, depending on the person’s specific needs. Materials used to make orthotics range from pliable plastic to carbon graphite.
Why Do People Need Orthotics?
As mentioned, the primary purpose of orthotics is to correct misalignment in a person’s feet. However, orthotics also resolve signs and symptoms of dysfunction elsewhere in the body. The musculoskeletal system acts as a “chain.” This means that problems in one part of the body, such as the feet, can lead to pain and imbalanced forces in other parts of the body, especially in the knees, hips, pelvis, and spine. Orthotics are most commonly prescribed for a misalignment in the foot known as “dropped arch” or “hyperpronation,” also called flat foot. Indeed, most people tend to have at least some degree of flat-footedness. Orthotics are also prescribed to correct pain and dysfunction associated with altered leg lengths, which can be caused by several factors including severe scoliosis. Very active people, like athletes and people with physically demanding jobs, often benefit from custom orthotic prescription.
Choosing Your Orthotics From Renew Health & Wellness
Orthotics can be extremely helpful for improving physiological—musculoskeletal, in particular—dysfunction and restoring your body’s optimal alignment. It’s important that orthotics are provided in conjunction with other complementary treatments to help accelerate healing and wellness. When you work with one of our Naperville chiropractors, we’ll ensure that you receive any and all treatments that are appropriate for your unique case, beyond orthotic prescription and fitting. These comprehensive services may include manual therapy and spinal adjustments, corrective exercise prescription, nutritional counseling, lifestyle advice, and massage therapy. Of course, not everyone needs orthotics. However, for our patients who do, we offer custom, high-quality, and affordable orthotics to maximize their effectiveness and positive impact on your life. Are you wondering if orthotics may be the right choice for you? Contact us at our Naperville, Ill., office today to schedule an appointment with one of our friendly and dedicated staff members. We are committed to helping you achieve the whole-body, all-natural relief and healing you deserve.