There are numerous conditions that can have you in pain while enjoying your favorite activities. You’ve probably already tried everything under the sun. Icing, compression, elevating, even that special cream grandma swears by. (It doesn’t do the trick but you’re too nice to tell her it doesn’t work for you.) Here at Nokomis Chiropractic and Wellness in Minneapolis, MN, we don’t have grandmas with “special creams,” we have doctors with corrective Orthotics.

Custom orthotics are designed to align your feet and ankles into the most anatomically efficient position. Although they look similar to a basic insole, they are actually a biomechanical medical appliance that is custom made to correct your specific foot imbalance. I’m sure you’re wondering, “well, can’t I just purchase any ole’ insole? Why do I have to have a custom one?” Sure, you can purchase “any ole’ insole’’ and it may be better than nothing but remember it will be a generic insole. How does Joe Schmoe have the same foot arch as you do? He doesn’t! Those insoles may feel great for a short while but most likely your feet, back, neck, ankle, or knee will eventually be killing you again. Now you’re back to square one, in pain, frustrated, and you are out $20-$100.

Common Conditions and Indicators That You May Benefit From Orthotics:

Achilles Tendonitis: This is inflammation of the common tendon of the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles of the posterior compartment of the leg.( i.e; your heel and the back of the ankle) This is usually found in people who run regularly. But, also it can affect basketball players, dancers, or anyone who put a lot of repeated stress on their feet.

Iliotibial Band Syndrom: This can be due to:

• High or Low Arches
• Excessive Foot-Strike Force
• Uneven Leg Lengths/A twisted or Tilted Pelvis
• Bowlegs or Tightness about the Iliotibial Band

Plantar Fasciitis: Is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves pain and inflammation of a thick band of tissue, called the plantar fascia that runs the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes. Plantar Fasciitis typically causes a stabbing pain in the bottom of your foot near the heel. So, if you’re waking up in the morning and feel like you’re walking on a bed of nails all the way to the bathroom, you really need to consider corrective orthotics.

Now I bet you’re wondering, “How do I know it’s time for orthotics?” Great! I thought you’d never ask.

Do you suffer from?

• Localized Foot Pain
• Bunions, Hammer Toe
• Arch/Heel Pain
• Leg/Knee Pain
• Heel Spurs
• Hip or Back Pain, or Even Neck Pain

If you’ve said yes, to one or more of those, then it’s time for you to consider Orthotic inserts.

Will They Be Comfortable?

It is similar to breaking in a new pair of shoes. Don’t worry about the muscles becoming weak because custom orthotics are designed to use the right muscles at the right time, minimizing fatigue and allowing your muscles to be used more efficiently. Some people need to gradually get used to wearing them so plan on a short outing or not much walking the first time you put them in. The longer you wear the insoles, the more benefit you will get out of them. If you’re an active person who goes to the gym or likes to walk or run regularly you should consider a second pair of custom orthotics that are designed for that specific activity.

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Contact our office today at 612-822-0149 to set up an appointment for a free evaluation and scan. Custom fit orthotics may be covered by your insurance and are a tax deductable and qualified FSA/HSA medical expense.