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Orthotics

chart of a normal foot, a high arch foot, and a low arch foot

Whenever you run, walk or stand, your feet form the foundation of your body. Sometimes, though, the shape of your foot or an injury can affect the angle at which your foot strikes the ground. If severe enough, this can cause pain in the foot, as well as in the legs, low back and other areas of the body.

Because of the importance of the feet in our lives, stabilizing them is an important part of chiropractic care. If you have an imbalance in your feet, your chiropractor may suggest orthotics. These customized shoe inserts can reduce symptoms and improve your walking and running without the need for treatments like surgery.

How Orthotics Work

Orthotics change the angle at which the foot strikes the ground. They can also absorb some of the impact when you walk or run, improve your balance and shift pressure from sore parts of the foot.

One type of orthotics is used for people with soft tissue problems, such as diabetes. These shoe inserts can reduce the pressure on areas of the feet where ulcers (open sores) may occur. This may reduce the need for amputation.

The other type of orthotics is designed to improve how the foot strikes the ground. They basically work by bringing the ground up to the foot. These can also be used to treat conditions such as tendinitis and shin splints.

For example, people whose ankle rolls inward as they walk or run — pronation — may be given orthotics to keep their foot, ankle and leg in alignment. This can reduce pain in the feet, knees and hips. It may also reduce the wear and tear on the joints.

Fitting of Orthotics

Over-the-counter shoe inserts are available at pharmacies and sports or shoe stores. In many cases, these will work fine. For more serious foot conditions, a customized orthotic can work better. These are shaped specifically to fit your foot. They are also made of stronger materials and will last longer.

To fit your orthotics, your chiropractor will examine your feet and watch you walk. He or she will also ask you about symptoms that you might be having, such as pain in the foot or legs, and whether you have any health conditions such as diabetes.

If your chiropractor decides that orthotics are a good option for you, he or she will take a three-dimensional picture of your foot or use a mold to create a replica of your foot shape. These will be used to create an orthotic that is designed to improve your comfort and mobility.

If you are experiencing pain your feet or legs, ask your chiropractor whether orthotics might be a good fit for you.

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Reviews By Our Satisfied Patients

  • "I love coming here! They offer great chiropractics and massage therapy. I always leave feeling better. Dr.Santer and the team are always so welcoming and make me feel like we have been friends for years. You truly feel they care about you. It is easy to set up and appointment and they are very understanding when something comes up. I like the office and staff so much and think they do such an amazing job! I tell all my friends and family about it. Thank you everyone for all you do!!!"
    Dominique C., Chesapeake, VA
  • ""I first came to Atlantic Chiropractic 5 years ago with a pinched nerve in my neck. I was in so much pain, I could not even move my head. Dr. Eric diagnosed the problem almost immediately and confirmed it with the EMG. He set up a treatment plan and told me I probably would not feel significant relief for a good two weeks. I appreciated his thoroughness, expertise, and honesty. As it turned out, I was actually pain free in one week! I always refer my friends to Dr. Eric/Atlantic Chiropractic and Rehabilitation for the most trusted effective chiropractic care.""
    Michelle G., Chesapeake, VA