Monthly Archives: November 2012

Orthotics can help improve your quality of life.

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If you’re spending more than 6 hours a day on your feet and end the day with sore, achy feet and pain that extends up to your legs and lower back, you may be a candidate for orthotics or orthopaedic shoes.

Strictly speaking, an orthotic is a device that supports or corrects the functioning of a part of your body. They can range from a brace on your leg to a shoe insole. An orthotic performs a number of functions including:

• Restricting or assisting movement generally or in a specific direction

• Reducing weight bearing forces in a certain area for a particular purpose

• Rehabilitating from fractures after the removal of a cast

• Or, simply correcting the shape of the body to provide easier movement and reduce pain.

The chiropodists – foot doctors – at Ontario Foot & Orthotics recommend orthotics or orthopaedic shoes for a number of foot ailments or strains such as high, fallen arches, or flat feet. These types of conditions if left untreated can lead to biomechanical issues.

But even tired and achy feet can benefit from orthotics. For those who spend the entire work day on their feet – usually more than 6 hours a day, it using orthotics can increase comfort, reduce pain and generally improve your quality of life. Imagine returning home from work without sore and achy feet – by- passing the footbath and enjoying the rest of your evening.

Sometimes, it’s not a matter of just insoles, but orthopaedic shoes may be required. Fortunately, these days you can purchase orthopaedic shoes in a variety of sizes, shapes and colours that doesn’t put unneeded stress on your feet.

The chiropodists at Ontario Foot & Orthotics are pleased to answer your questions and help you discover if you’re a candidate for orthotic insoles or shoes. Most orthotics are covered by a variety of insurance plans. Visit us online at www.ontariofoot.ca.

 

 

Fallen Arches & Heel Pain – Your Feet are Asking For Help

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Pain is one of the main reasons why people seek help – with heel pain, seek the help of a chiropodist – your foot care specialist. The most common cause of heel pain is a condition called ‘plantar fasciitis.’ Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the dense band of tissue that connects the heel and the base of the toes. Due to a fallen arch and poor foot biomechanics, the resulting micro-tears and strain leads to inflammation and pain of the plantar fascia. People often feel it when they step out of bed onto the floor, or after prolonged sitting. Simple ways to reduce the inflammation are to rest, ice and elevate the foot. Taking shorter steps, avoiding high-impact exercises and avoiding walking barefoot also help. If the inflammation and pain is not addressed adequately, a bone spur can develop and the pain can become chronic. A chiropodist will assess your foot and address the faulty biomechanics, often with a custom prescribed foot orthotic, as well as stretches and teaching you how to better care for your feet.

Fallen arches, or ‘flat feet’:

Having flat feet is a common finding. It is a lowering of the inside edge of your feet, leading to instability, local physical stress and reduces the shock-absorbing qualities of the arch. You may not suffer symptoms from fallen arches, though over time symptoms can develop: tired, stiff and sore arches; pain in the ankles, knees, hip or low back; painful shin splints with activity, Achilles tendonitis, bunions and osteoarthritis. It is important to address the foot instability and resulting faulty biomechanics of your feet due to the fallen arches. Foot orthotics are very helpful and stabilizes your fallen arch, reducing your symptoms. A chiropodist will conduct a complete biomechanical assessment of your flat feet and prescribe custom foot orthotics that match your unique foot structure and function.

To arrange an assessment, contact Ontario Foot & Orthotics at one of our two locations: 519-623-3000 in Cambridge or 905-878-6479 in Milton. You can also visit us at www.ontariofoot.ca.