How to Tell if You Need Orthotics

Not everyone needs orthotics, but most people can benefit from them.

Orthotics help redistribute pressure, correct your gait, improve your posture, cushion sensitive parts of the foot, absorb shock, and reduce foot pain. A podiatrist can tell you if you need insoles, but there are a number of conditions that might require custom orthotics molded to your feet.

Conditions That May Require Custom Orthotics

Foot Pain or Swelling

Foot or heel pain is often a sign of other problems, such as plantar fasciitis. Orthotics can provide cushioning and support to reduce foot pain.

Lower Limb Injuries

Lower limb injuries can affect how we move, and our alignment, which can be improved using custom orthotics.

Flat Feet or High Arches

People with very high arches or none at all (flat feet) don't get the support they need from regular shoes. Orthotics can give your arches the support they need.

» Looking to customize your orthotics? Discover the best insoles for flat feet to enhance your orthotics

Situations That May Benefit From Custom Orthotics

Regularly Spending Long Hours on Your Feet

Insoles can help relieve the stress placed on the plantar fascia, a ligament across the bottom of your foot. Extensive hours on your feet can injure the plantar fascia and cause a painful condition known as plantar fasciitis.

Feeling Unstable on Your Feet

Flat feet or collapsed arches can cause a great deal of pain and leave you feeling unbalanced. Inserts can help with balance problems related to flat feet.

Shoes With Uneven Wear and Tear

If the soles of your shoes are wearing down more on one side than on the other, your foot may be rolling inwards (pronation) or turning outwards (supination). If one shoe is more worn than the other, your legs might not be the same length. Insoles can redistribute pressure and restore equilibrium between your feet.

Should You Get Orthotics?

If you recognize yourself in any of the above descriptions, you might need orthotics. And even if your feet are fine, you could still benefit from the extra support and comfort custom orthotics provide.

Consult with the experts at Upstep and they can help you decide if orthotics are right for you.