Foot orthotic therapy is an extremely useful and conservative approach to treatment of lower limb biomechanical dysfunction. Foot orthotics help to regain “neutral position” and restore balance.

In the past foot, orthoses were believed to correct mechanical abnormalities such as “over-pronated foot” but now they are giving therapeutic benefits by achieving internal kinetic changes. It also helps to reduce pain and improve function; these are advised in those patients who respond positively to the anti-pronation technique. Recent research has shown the comparison of wearing foot orthosis vs physiotherapy treatment exercises alone the results were significant, and function of the foot was restored. Unilateral plantar fasciopathy was recovered in 12 weeks.

In most cases, your body needs two to four weeks to become accustomed to any type of orthotics. That means you should plan to wear them regularly so your body can adjust. But it should be kept in mind that unnecessary use of foot orthotics can be dangerous and can exacerbate the pre-existing medical condition Many physiotherapists have developed an interest in orthotic prescription. They combine foot orthotics with corrective exercises and physiotherapy modalities. The question that is often asked is ‘When should I prescribe foot orthotics?’

Some of these foot conditions in which foot orthotics are helpful include:
• Plantar Heel Pain • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
• Tibialis Posterior Tendon Dysfunction
• Peroneal Tendon Dysfunction
• Midfoot Osteoarthritis
• Achilles Tendinopathy
• MTP Joint Pathologies
• Plantar Plate Injury
• Metatarsalgia
• Freiberg Disease

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For more information on how foot orthotics can help these conditions please refer to ‘The Orthotic Solution’ – a clinical guide to lower limb biomechanics and orthotic therapy.

Whilst prepared by our product specialists in conjunction with leading and independent therapists, the information we provide is general in nature and does not take into account your personal circumstances or financial position. It should not be used as a substitute for professional advice. Whilst we make reasonable efforts to ensure the information presented to you is complete and accurate, we do not guarantee any results, outcomes and examples are for illustrative purposes only. You should consult with a qualified professional prior to relying on any information contained in this document as circumstances, requirements and expectations will vary from person to person and business to business.