Having flat feet and arch support issues makes it difficult to stand or walk for a long time. Luckily, with the help of over-the-counter solutions and custom orthotics, you can easily manage the symptoms of this condition. But which one is the best? What should you choose? Learn what you need to know about custom orthotics and over-the-counter solutions for managing flat feet and arch support issues in this article. Get a consultation with the best Podiatrists in Brooklyn.
Podiatry Solutions for Flat Feet and Arch Support Issues
Custom orthotics
Custom-made orthotics are used to address the specific needs of each patient and provide a personalized fit that supports the arch of their foot and improves the overall body alignment. Numerous studies have found it effective in improving foot function and reducing pain. Similarly, some studies found that custom-made orthotics improved walking patterns and reduced pain in people with flat feet, which shows how effective custom orthotics are in providing significant relief for patients with flat feet. Additionally, it helps to prevent the development of foot problems related to flat feet, like overpronation.
Custom orthotics correct gait abnormalities and provide support to the feet, lowering the risk of injuries such as stress fractures and improving foot functionality. These orthotics are typically more comfortable and less obtrusive than traditional shoe inserts. They are made from high-quality materials that were tailored to meet your specific needs, resulting in a more comfortable and effective treatment experience.
Over-the-Counter Solutions
Besides customized devices, other over-the-counter solutions help to manage flat feet and arch support problems, such as:
Stretching: Performing stretching exercises for tight calf muscles lowers the chances of the foot collapsing (arch height gets lowered and the heel bone rolls in). This will improve flexibility, which is achieved by standing on an adjustable slant board for 2 to 3 minutes twice a day. For shortened Achilles tendons that are found in people with flat feet, stretching exercises for the tendons are beneficial.
Physiotherapy: You might be suggested by a podiatrist or physical therapist to perform specific exercises to treat the signs of flat feet or prevent them from occurring. Exercise programs help to strengthen the major muscles and tendons in your foot. Researchers found that about 8 weeks (about 2 months) of foot workouts significantly improved a patient’s gait and foot alignment. Extending the heel cord and golf ball rolling are the most common exercises recommended to enhance foot and ankle strength and flexibility, which may help alleviate flat feet problems.
Supportive shoes: You need to wear shoes that provide proper support to prevent unwanted motion. Such shoes come with a stiff and firm bottom with laces that securely fasten.
Pain medications and injections: Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatories and analgesics for relieving pain and inflammation. If pain medications and other conservative solutions don’t work, steroid injections may be recommended for pain relief.
Custom orthotics and over-the-counter solutions are both good options to treat flat feet and arch support problems. Doctors may not recommend one over the other; instead, a combination of both over-the-counter solutions and custom orthotics is recommended to get overall better pain relief and functionality for your foot.
Need help with flat feet and arch support problems? Visit our podiatry clinic in Brooklyn to get professional medical help. Call us to book your appointment now!!!!! At Doral Health & Wellness, we have Podiatrists with extensive education and expertise. If you’re ready to take the next step in managing your pain, we recommend consulting with our healthcare provider to explore the right treatments or therapies for you. Always listen to your body and adjust your daily routine to prioritize your well-being. Trauma to the tendons, muscles, and bones of the foot is quite common. It’s not a good idea to put off seeing Foot Doctor Brooklyn until you are in a lot of pain. Our address is 1797 Pitkin Avenue, New York, NY 11212. To make an appointment, please call + 1 718 367 2555 or send an email toinfo@doralhw.org.
