How Does an Orthotic Work?
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Make a Foot Mold
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An orthotic can be custom made (by having a mold made of the foot), or bought ready made in drugstores. Either way, the orthotic is inserted in one or both shoes (as needed) to correct a normal walking pattern that causes pain in any area of the foot, leg or even the back. The orthotic, simply put, changes the way the foot hits the ground and softens or completely eliminates pain felt when walking.
Soft Orthotic
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A soft orthotic is more prevalently used and helps to change a normal walking pattern that causes pain when walking. Since this change in body movements will take time to get used to, a new orthotic should be broken into over the course of a few days.
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Rigid Orthotic
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The rigid orthotic is usually made of hard plastic, and while it is less comfortable than the ''soft orthotic," it is used for a different purpose. It helps those that need more support to either hold or control the function of the foot to avoid pain either in their upper legs, back, foot. Using the rigid orthotic will enable you to have complete control of your foot and be able to walk almost or completely pain free.
Keep in Mind
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Molded to fit orthotics are not inexpensive. The expense just might be worth the cost if it helps relieve pain felt when walking. Store bought orthotics will certainly cost less, but they might not correct a specific foot or walking problem found by having the foot molded and formed to the actual site of the problem.
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Resources
- Photo Credit http://www.healiohealth.com/tek9.asp?pg=products&specific=jndqosfqq(permission received for picture), http://www.surefitlab.com/surerelief.html,http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ankle-foot_orthosis,
