Orthotics Are Necessary For A Variety Of Reasons

By Kari Ratliff


The term orthotics refers to various types of devices that are used to minimize posture problems and alleviate other symptoms. There are many reasons an individual may suffer from pain or discomfort. Accident victims, for instance, frequently experience long-term physical problems, depending on the kind of injuries they sustained during the incident. Underlying health conditions can also cause pain, such as orthopedic abnormalities, diabetic neuropathy or rheumatoid arthritis.

Some pain that patients experience is idiopathic, meaning that no underlying health problem has been specifically named as the reason for the person's discomfort. However, chronic pain is often linked to joint abnormalities or disorders. If an individual is suffering from pain or cannot maintain proper posture without discomfort, he or she should speak to a health care professional.


As previously mentioned, the objective of orthotics is to help patients who have various health conditions, from congenital deformities to the side effects of injury or illness. Such devices are designed to maximize the person's mobility and function, while alleviating, or at the very least minimizing, his or her pain and discomfort. They are also designed to prevent congenital abnormalities from becoming worse over time.

A simple example of such a device is an insole. Almost everyone is familiar with products of this type and most people have used them at least once throughout their life. Insoles, as is indicated by their name, are inserted inside a person's shoes where they provide comfort and support for his or her feet. Basic products such as arch supports and insoles can substantially decrease the level of pain an individual feels and his or her feet and legs.

The devices mentioned above are easily found in shoe departments or other retail outlets such as drugstores. However, there is a broad range of other supportive products an individual may need. Certain equipment of this kind is available only by prescription, the latter which must be obtained from a physician or podiatrist. Such devices include certain types of orthopedic footwear or adaptive equipment such as braces.

It is essential that any device of this type properly fit the patient for whom it is intended. Ill-fitting equipment, rather than alleviating the individual's pain, will exacerbate it in most cases. For this reason, anything other than a simple arch support or insole must be customized.

For instance, if a physician recommends braces as therapy for a compromised joint, the person will typically be fitted and measured in the office of the prescribing specialist or practitioner. The measurements taken will then be given to the manufacturer who will be designing the device.

It is never wise to ignore pain or problems with one's posture. Symptoms of this type do not generally occur unless an underlying injury or medical disorder is present. A doctor or specialist are the only individuals qualified to recommend the appropriate treatment, and no one should procrastinate if medical attention is needed.

If a person simply desires extra comfort and support for tired joints, the best course of action is to visit a local retailer and obtain orthotics. However, those experiencing serious pain that is chronic in nature or excessive problems with posture should seek the advice of a medical professional.




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