Orthotics, often associated with senior citizens, have long been thought of as a remedy for age-related foot and posture issues. While it's true that orthotics can provide substantial benefits to older individuals, they aren’t exclusive to the elderly.
Our team of podiatrists at Manhattan Podiatry Associates, PC, recommends orthotics to individuals of all ages here in our Midtown and Downtown Manhattan offices.
Read on as we debunk the misconception that orthotics are only for senior citizens and explore how people of all ages can benefit from these customized shoe inserts.
Orthotics are specially designed, medical-grade shoe inserts used to correct irregular walking patterns and provide support for your feet. They can help alleviate foot pain, enhance comfort, and even aid in preventing issues. Orthotics come in various forms, including functional orthotics and accommodative orthotics.
Functional orthotics are typically rigid or semi-rigid and help correct abnormal motion, tendonitis, and other foot pain. Accommodative orthotics are softer and are used to provide comfort and support. These orthotics help redistribute pressure to reduce your risk of ulcers, pressure sores, and calluses.
Orthotics are popular among seniors due to age-related issues such as arthritis, flat feet, and fallen arches. As people age, their feet may undergo structural changes that affect balance, mobility, and posture. Orthotics can help provide stability, reduce pain, and improve the quality of life for older individuals.
It's essential to recognize that orthotics offer numerous advantages to individuals of all age groups. Here's why orthotics aren’t exclusively for senior citizens:
Athletes and physically active individuals are more prone to foot-related injuries, including sprains, strains, and fractures. Some athletes find that wearing orthotics can help prevent injuries. For example, if you overpronate, orthotics can improve the biomechanical function of your feet and help prevent foot pain, knee pain, shin splints, and even back pain related to overpronation.
Orthotics can help prevent issues, but they can also help manage pain and correct any underlying foot conditions you already have. Orthotics may be part of a comprehensive treatment plan to correct foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, or flat feet.
Some people overpronate, and some struggle with supination. Both of these terms describe your gait and how you bear weight on your feet.
If your feet aren’t aligned properly, it doesn’t just cause foot issues. Because your feet are part of your kinetic chain, foot issues can lead to poor posture and ankle, knee, hip, and back pain.
Orthotics can enhance your body alignment and improve your posture, which is especially beneficial if you spend long hours standing or have a job that requires repetitive motion.
Orthotics improve your comfort when walking or standing for extended periods, and that’s a good perk regardless of your age.
To sum it up, orthotics aren’t exclusively reserved for senior citizens, and people of all ages can benefit from custom orthotics. Whether you're an athlete looking to prevent injuries, a professional seeking to improve your posture at work, or a diabetic trying to prevent ulcers and calluses, orthotics can provide the support and comfort you need.
If you're considering orthotics, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Manhattan Podiatry Associates, PC. When you arrive for your orthotics consultation, our team assesses your specific needs and recommends the most appropriate type of orthotics for you.
In addition to orthotics, we can also recommend other treatments to help address the root cause of your foot pain, whether that’s plantar fasciitis, fallen arches, hammertoes, or another condition.
Questions? Schedule an appointment with our team. Call our location most convenient to you or book online today.
