Tuesday, February 24, 2015

How Custom Orthotics In Longmont CO Help Foot Pain Sufferers

By Earlene McGee


Nearly three-quarters of the adult population has experienced the intense pain of a foot or ankle injury, and many people turn to over-the-counter shoe inserts in an effort to find relief. Although helpful in some cases, individually designed orthotic devices are often more effective. Custom Orthotics in Longmont CO focuses on personalized needs and requirements when creating devices intended to speed the process of healing.

In general context, orthotics is a branch of medicine involving the use of braces, splints, or other external supports that allow people to walk or run in a normal manner, without pain. They are intended to combat problems affecting the lower extremities, including hips, ankles, knees, and feet. By decreasing the stress and strain on current injuries they help prevent recurrence, and promote proper skeletal alignment.

Diabetics may develop ulcerative foot sores that heal slowly, while other people may suffer from severe calluses or problems with abnormal bone or tissue growth. Both problems show improvements when an accommodating device is created to relieve the external pressure. It not only allows people to stand in a more normal fashion, but also increases personal mobility.

When the pain is a result of an abnormal structure not related to injury, a podiatrist might recommend a functional device. A functional insert produces more than a pillow effect, and is often made of substances that are flexible but stronger than simple foam, including plastics and composites. They are created from three-dimensional foot models, and used to fight related pain in hips or knees as well as feet.

Rather than a one-size-fits all approach, podiatrists and orthopedists rely on a biomechanical examination in order to provide the most beneficial and comfortable result. This exam analyzes the effects of motion on a particular individual. No two people are identical in their movements, and this type of custom design is crucial when healing from surgery to correct problems with hammertoes, heel spurs, or bunions.

The advantages gained from creating a personalized fit based on a model include the possibility of correcting different problems on either foot when necessary. The materials used fit individual body contours perfectly, providing greater support and reducing collateral irritations. They are often effective in treating problems related to flat aches, and are used to eliminate childhood bone structure problems that prove problematic during adulthood.

Although the field of biometrics has not escaped controversy regarding its role in creating helpful orthotics, much criticism involves comparisons with drug-store products. Individually-fitted supports have been successfully used by doctors for decades, and have been particularly useful in restoring normal movement restricted by pain in the plantar region. They also help older people maintain balance while walking.

Falls are a leading cause of injury in the elderly population, and these devices provide the support that helps reduce the number of accidents. While not suitable for every patient, people who experience debilitating ankle or foot pain and the resulting loss of physical independence often find lasting relief by wearing these devices. They not only encourage faster healing, but provide relief and comfort from daily pain.




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