Friday, July 09, 2010

Custom Orthotics can help you!


Custom orthotics can help you avoid some common foot problems!


Corns and calluses are thick, hard layers of skin that develop from pressure when foot bones push together or against footwear. Corns appear on or between toes and calluses are usually found on the balls of the feet and on the heels.


Blisters are bubble-like pockets that develop when skin rubs continuously against another surface. this friction causes a tear inside the upper layers of the skin (the epidermis), which forms a space between these layers and fills it with fluid. Help prevent corns, calluses and blisters by wearing properly fitting shoes and by using cushions and/or custom orthotics that protect areas highly prone to such problems


A Bunion is an enlargement of the big toe's joint. It often develops when the big toe bends inward toward the other toes, a condition called "Hallux Valgus". These problems are often created by frequently wearing tight shoes that squeeze toes together. Hereditary factors can also be a cause.


If you have a bunion, you can relieve pain from footwear by placing a cushion over the tender area. Custom Orthotics can also slow down the progression of the bunion. Severe cases may require surgery, however wearing a splint or a toe spacer may help slow down the progression of the condition also and postpone the surgery.


The Ball-of-Foot area is part of the forefoot, located between the base of the toes and the foot's arch. "Metatarsalgia" is a general term used to describe pain in that area. "Morton's Neuroma" is a condition associated with pain, swelling, and/or a burning sensation in the ball-of-foot's nerve, most commonly between the 3rd and 4th toes. these ailments can occur after the forefoot experiences long periods of excessive pressure, such as when wearing high-heeled shoes or participating in high-impact activities. Also, the ball-of-foot's natural fat pad thins out with age and makes the area more susceptible to problems . To protect and relieve feet, add cushion to shoes to comfort the sensitive areas. Custom orthotics can also be made to fit your foot to protect these areas.


The Arch is the curved part of the middle of the foot. It's shape is maintained by the "Plantar Fascia", a connective tissue band which runs from the heel to the forefoot. Excessive stretching of the plantar fascia, usually due to over-pronation ("flat feet") causes "Plantar Fasciitis", a condition that can create pain and strain in the arch and the heel. If left untreated, bony protrusions ("heel spurs") may develop on the heel. If you suffer from arch problems - wearing supportive custom orthotics can provide relief