Orthotics has, as of recent times, become one of the most sought after correctional items to date. Employed for both general and sports-related purposes, orthotics help to correct gait, improve walking and running, reduce stress to the feet, and help to improve overall balance and coordination. While having orthotics may seem like an amazing thing, which is meant for everyone, getting the wrong orthotics or using them even if you don’t need them can actually cause more harm than good. But there are guidelines on how to know if you have the wrong orthotic, or if you even should use an orthotic. Here’s how to find out.
A Quick Guide on How to Know if you Have the Wrong Orthotic
Figuring out whether you should use an orthotic accessory or not can be somewhat challenging for some people, especially since the majority of drugstores these days sell one form or another of these types of items. When you purchase an orthotic device from a drugstore, you are taking a chance if it is right for you or not. Drugstores don’t guaranty the efficiency of the orthotics they sell, nor do they assume the responsibility to educate the masses on how they are used and what they are for.
If you’re curious on how to know if you have the wrong orthotic accessory, you should consider the following:
Comfort – Orthotics are actually designed to provide the utmost in comfort, whether one is running, walking, or simply lying still. If you’re wearing orthotics that fails to provide some degree of comfort, then it’s the wrong orthotics for you. Comfort is always paramount when it comes to deciding whether you’re wearing the right orthotics or not. However, just a mere ‘feel’ for it can be deceiving, especially since most orthotic accessories cushion or protect the foot, and any degree of discomfort only begins to appear too late. It can be quite difficult to know if you’re wearing the wrong or right orthotics.
Prescription – Some individuals require prescription-grade orthotics or custom orthotics to correct medical conditions such as flat feet or hip dysphasia. Even then, some orthotics can be purchased without a prescription, although specific health conditions require custom orthotics to guarantee the utmost efficiency, and still some individuals choose to purchase over-the-counter orthotics. If you have a prescribed orthotic accessory, it is best to always stick to the prescription, or otherwise discuss any possible alternative with your health care expert, otherwise, you risk worsening your condition or possibly causing further injury.
Price – Orthotics range from being relatively affordable to downright pricey; however, price alone doesn’t determine a good orthotic accessory. Simply because a custom-made orthotic accessory is pricey does not always necessitate that it is good or that it is right for you. Although, a prescribed custom made orthotic will have the best results, but it is always wise to discuss other alternative options with a professional before settling for the priciest once.
In the long run, people should be made aware that orthotics are extremely helpful, if they fit correctly, but not really required for trifling injuries. Orthotics should be a last line of cure reserved only for cases that truly require it, but when they are needed, you should consult a fully qualified Orthotist.