Why You Need Orthotics if you Suffer from Fallen Arches or Overpronation

A recent study conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) revealed that a surprising 73 percent of people asked said that they are living with painful feet. Why have foot ailments and pain become so commonplace in the doctor's office? Most patients have issues with their feet because of: the kind of footwear they use, the activities they engage in, or how their feet are formed. Usage of ill-fitting shoes can greatly exacerbate existing foot issues. People who engage in athletic activites are another segment of the population that are mostly-affected by foot pain. Factors such as flat feet, overpronation, and insufficient protection can all play a role in painful feet, ankles, and knees. Genetics can contribute to foot-related issues because they dictate how the foot was formed in the womb. This can increase the risk of developing painful foot conditions such as bunions, heel spurs, and plantar fasciits.

The Mechanics of the Foot

Low arches can cause can make running or walking painful because the foot rotates inward. The foot is responsible for stabilizing and balancing the body while bearing its weight. The parts of the foot that help keep this balance are the heel, arch, tarsals and metatarsals provide the body with what it needs to perform optimally. The arch provides tremendous strength and flexibility so the foot remains stable. This harmony can be disrupted by tall arches or low arches, which can cause the foot to rotate abnormally. In high arches, the mass of the body is abnormally emphasized on the far ridge of the foot , a condition known as over-supination. However, overpronation happens with flat feet because the weight of the body is concentrated on the inside of the foot, causing the ankles to roll inward .

Over-pronation Can Lead to Serious Foot Problems
A quick way to see if flat feet or high arches are an issue is to go outside and stand on an area where a foot print can be made, such as on cement. Sink one of the feet in some water and then stand normally for a few seconds. Then, lift the foot off the ground and see the print that the foot leaves. A flat foot with foot overpronation will leave a complete mark where the entire foot has touched the ground. A high arch will leave just a part of the ball of the foot's, outer portion, and the foot's heel. Either of these arch dysfunctions can contribute to bony growths in the heel or plantar fasciitis treatment because the foot has to deal with repeated and excessive pressure in places it is not intended to handle.

Get Relief for Therapy For Plantar Fasciitis With Orthotic Insoles

People suffering from flat feet, heel spurs, or who need treatment for plantar fascitis can experience the pain eliminated with the use of orthotic insoles. They offer the needed support to fix the areas in the arch that have been weakened. They also offer cushioning in areas where repeated and excessive there is excess pressure on the foot in the heel and ball areas. Orthotics are available in several sizes and styles and are made to meet everyone's needs no matter what their activity level.

Many people are worried about the consequences of having flat feet. The researchers at Footminders have found an ideal solution for flat feet problems. The orthotics, shoe inserts and arch supports from Footminders are recommended by many podiatrists to relieve this condition.