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How Arch Support Orthotics Can Help Relieve Foot Pain

By Sharron Cantu


Painful and swollen ankles and feet is a problem very familiar to podiatrists. In most cases the origin of the problem can be traced to the wearing of inappropriate shoes but in many other cases patients suffer from conditions such as flat feet. A surprising number of patients will benefit from the use of special insoles. This arch support orthotics helps patients to maintain a proper posture and this often provide almost immediate relief.

People with fallen insteps experience a wide range of symptoms. In some cases sufferers experience pain constantly. They also have great difficulties standing on their toes and they simply cannot stand upright for long periods. They suffer from swollen feet and ankles and in most cases lower back pain is a constant companion. People with flat feet also find that their shoes wear down unevenly.

There is no cure for flat feet. Insoles remain one of the most effective remedies however. Even if they do not lead to a cure, they still provide immense relief. They are designed to support the arches, helping sufferers to stand up straight. They are freely available over the counter but some patients need custom made insoles if their feet are deformed in any way.

There have been cases where podiatrists have attempted to cure flat feet with surgery. An incision is made along the side of the foot and an artificial support is implanted. Experts view this surgery as extremely dangerous and very likely to fail. Patients often end up suffering intense pain for the rest of their lives. Flat feet are not a dangerous condition and the risk of surgery is simply not worth it.

There are other things that can help sufferers to relieve the symptoms common to flat feet. Podiatrists advise patients to walk barefoot as often as possible. Efforts should also be made to run on the toes. It is also beneficial to stretch the toes as wide as possible a few times every day. These exercises will strengthen the ligaments and improve the flexibility of the feet.

All babies have flat feet. The arches only develop at a later stage but in some cases they simply never develop at all. There are other causes for flat feet that develop at a later stage. Obese people are very likely to suffer from flat feet. Those with arthritis are also at risk. The tendons in the ankles often weaken with age and this may lead to flat feet in the elderly.

There is much that can be done to prevent the arches from falling later in life. Wearing the correct type of shoe is one of the most important ways in which to prevent flat feet. Active people participating in sport should wear the type of footwear that is designed for that specific sport and women should avoid high heels if possible.

Painful feet and ankles can seriously affect the mobility of sufferers. People with flat feet should try to wear special insoles at all times. Care should be taken, however, to use only high quality products manufactured by reputable firms. Any podiatrist can advise on quality brands.




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