Foot pain may happen not just to the elderlies, but to people of all age groups. There are several reasons that can give rise to foot pain. These include hammertoes, bunions, and heel pain or a pinched nerve. When you visit a foot specialist to cure a paining foot, it is the responsibility of the specialist to check the cause of the problem and to cure it once and for all.

Many times you will hear people asking for orthotics for foot related issues. Normally, experienced doctors will recommend orthotics if the tendons or muscles or joints or bones or ligaments are not in their optimal working condition. It is important for you to remember that foot orthotics can be made from different types of materials and can often be either semi-rigid or rigid, semi-flexible or even accommodative, which basically depends upon individual needs and diagnosis.

Various Types of Orthotics

When you talk about the various types of Orthotic Solutions Podiatry orthotics, there are mainly three types in question. Firstly, it is the over-the-counter or off-the-shelf orthotics, secondly, it is the kiosk generated orthotics, and lastly, it is the professional custom made orthotics. The first type, over-the-counter orthotics, is easily available and you can choose the right one based upon your foot problem and shoe size.

Kiosk orthotics are mainly based upon a scan of your feet. Based on the result of this scan and the type of problem that you experience in your foot, you will be asked to wear a specific style or size of orthotics. These are generally helpful in cases pertaining to lower back pain, heel pain, and some general foot discomfort.

When it comes to custom prescription orthotics, it involves a professional foot specialist. This specialist will perform a complete health history related to your feet. This may include assessing your weight, height, activity level, and any other related medical conditions. The specialist will also do a thorough diagnosis and determine the best possible material and degree of flexibility or rigidity of the orthotics that will be made.

Which Type Of Orthotic Is Suitable For You?

If you are of an average height, weight and foot type, along with a general or common foot related problem, such as pain in the heel, it will be fine for you to go for a kiosk or over-the-counter orthotic. These will be pocket-friendly and can effectively decrease your discomfort and pain. There is a small catch to it all. You will have to replace the footwear on a regular basis.

However, if you suffer from a specific need, such as seriously flat foot, then you will have to go for custom prescription orthotics. These will be more expensive and are not usually covered by insurance. Nonetheless, these last much longer than the other types of orthotics.

Even before you decide to invest on orthotics, it will be a good idea to invest on good quality and properly fitting shoes that will be specific to your type of physical work or sports activity.