Are you one of the millions who regularly experience pain in the feet, knees, or legs by merely taking a walk or doing non-strenuous activities? To address this, your doctor might recommend getting custom orthotics.
Some people overlook using orthotics. They think orthotics can cause more pain if they don’t wear them often or if they wear them too long. So, how often should you wear custom orthotics? Is it okay to wear them all the time? Read on to find out.
What are Custom Orthotics?
Before you start worrying about how often you should wear custom orthotics, you should first know what they are and how they work.
Orthotics are a custom-made shoe or heel inserts for patients experiencing foot, leg, knee, or back problems. These are different from the shoe inserts you can get from stores designed to make footwear more comfortable. Custom orthotics are medical devices specially made to address a patient’s specific concerns.
There are two general types of custom orthotics: functional orthotics and accommodative orthotics.
- Functional orthotics are made from materials like carbon fiber or plastic. These are designed to correct improper motion and foot placement or to provide proper balance when running or walking.
- Accommodative or “soft” orthotics are made from flexible and soft compression materials, designed to provide protection and relieve pain caused by conditions such as plantar fasciitis and foot ulcers due to diabetes.
How Often Should I Wear My Custom Orthotics?
It takes a while to adjust to custom orthotics when wearing it for the first time. However, as time passes, patients get so used to wearing orthotics, they sometimes feel uneasy without them. This leaves us with the question, is it okay to wear custom orthotics all the time?
The answer is yes. Doctors recommend that once a patient comfortably breaks in custom orthotics, they wear them longer and all day. These devices provide the support your body needs to get through your daily routine—in the same way eyeglasses provide clear vision.
Should I Get Custom Orthotics?
Getting custom orthotics is an easy process, but it must first be recommended by an orthopedic doctor. These devices will be specifically customized to address your needs and help you in the most convenient and practical way possible.
So, how do you know if you need custom orthotics? You can check for symptoms and conditions that indicate you need orthotics. Some of these are:
- Plantar fasciitis or heel pain
- Knee pain
- Arthritis
- Back pain
- Diabetic ulcers
- Flat feet or very high-arched feet
- Past and present injuries
You can also consult with a physician if you have these issues to find out if custom orthotics are for you.
Orthopedic Doctors in Plantation, FL
Sometimes, treating our bodily pain is not as simple as we wish it to be. That is why we need physicians and experts to help us become aware of our conditions and what we can do to recover.
If you are looking for a clinic in Plantation, Florida, with well-trained and accommodating orthopedic experts to help you with your foot or back problems, visit Baylis & Brown Orthopedics. Our skilled staff and high-quality services are sure to help you recover in no time.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation, contact us today at (954) 476-8800 or use our convenient appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!
