Do you suffer from foot, knee, hip, or back pain? Medical conditions or structural abnormalities elsewhere in the body may be responsible. While medical therapies can help to mask the pain and address the symptoms, custom orthotics may be able to correct the underlying cause.

Individuals with overpronation, over-supination, plantar fasciitis, leg length differences, and numerous other conditions can benefit from arch support insoles customized to their particular foot shape and complaint. Arch support inserts also provide cushioning and stability while, at the same time, distributing the pressure on your feet more evenly.

Even if you do not suffer from medical conditions, custom orthotic insoles can help prevent future issues and provide significant benefits, especially if you suffer from occasional foot pain or have to stand for long periods during your workday.

Common Conditions That Could Benefit from Custom Orthotics

If you suffer from pain elsewhere in the body, such as your back or knees, you may want to consider custom orthotics. A Foot Levelers healthcare provider can determine whether you could benefit from better arch support, plantar fasciitis insoles, or other types of custom inserts.

Mobility Issues

Over-supination and overpronation can have effects on the entire body and, over time, cause pain in the back, knees, and hips. Custom orthotics can correct alignment issues and help your foot and ankle stay in the correct position, improving mobility and decreasing pressure and pain. Arch support inserts can also distribute your weight more evenly, helping you stay on your feet longer without experiencing pain.

Circulation Problems

Custom orthotic inserts offering appropriate arch support can effectively treat poor circulation. You could benefit from custom orthotics if you have any of the following symptoms of poor circulation:

  • Constantly cold feet
  • Tired or heavy-feeling feet
  • Swollen feet and ankles
  • Varicose veins
  • A feeling of pins and needles

Poor circulation can lead to other health problems. Moreover, if you have diabetes, you could be at risk of suffering nerve damage from bad circulation.

Leg Length Inequality and Leg Length Discrepancy

Leg length inequality and leg length discrepancy can lead to lower back pain and osteoarthritis of the hip or knees over time. Wearing custom orthotic insoles with adequate arch support may play an essential role in alleviating issues resulting from leg length inequalities. According to a study published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, orthotic insoles can considerably improve gait symmetry and reduce associated pain in individuals with mild leg length discrepancy.

Neuromuscular Conditions

Neuromuscular conditions include various ailments and diseases of the central nervous system. Orthotic insoles can alleviate symptoms stemming from neuromuscular disorders, such as:

  • Drop foot
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Post-polio syndrome
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Muscular dystrophies

Back Problems

Foot issues and lower back pain often go hand in hand. While treatment to resolve back pain often focuses on the symptoms, the cause of pain could be poor posture or problems with your feet, particularly over-supination and overpronation. Arch support inserts can play a vital role in addressing the cause of back pain by supporting your feet, distributing weight correctly, and aligning your gait.

Chronic Foot Pain

Orthotics can play an important role in addressing and preventing chronic foot pain. Painful foot conditions that can benefit from arch support include rheumatoid arthritis, bunions, heel spurs, and others. If you suffer from ongoing foot discomfort and pain, a healthcare provider can determine whether custom-made orthotic insoles are the right choice for you.

Other Problems That May Improve with Custom Orthotic Insoles

Custom orthotics can provide relief if you experience many different types of foot pain and discomfort. Your healthcare provider can determine whether you could benefit from any of the following custom orthotics:

  • Plantar fasciitis inserts
  • Maternity insoles
  • Orthotics for flat feet
  • Insoles for high arches

Signs That You Might Need Orthotic Insoles

You may not suffer from acute medical conditions; however, most of us do not have perfect feet and could likely benefit from custom orthotics. Arch support insoles can help prevent future issues with your feet, back, and knees. You may want to ask your doctor about getting insoles if you experience:

  • Foot, ankle, or knee pain
  • Bunions
  • High or low arches
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Pain from walking or standing for long periods

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Untreated foot and gait problems can lead to health conditions elsewhere in the body. Individuals knowingly or subconsciously change their stride or posture to compensate for foot discomfort. This compensation to avoid pain can cause considerable stress to the bony structures, muscles, tendons, and joints in your body.

Custom insoles with appropriate arch support help to return your feet to their proper alignment and could prevent any medical issues from arising in the first place.