Do you need orthotics? If you have uncontrolled foot pain, take a look at the top reasons why adults need these specialty shoe or heel inserts and what they can do for you.

Arthritis

Both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis can affect the feet and ankles. Arthritis-related inflammation can make something as simple as walking painful or, at the very least, uncomfortable.

Even though there are medical treatments for arthritis and its pain, a shoe insert is a drug-free option that can relieve discomfort, reduce pressure, redistribute weight, and make everyday life easier. Not only will a prescription shoe or heel insert make your feet feel better, but this alternative option can also increase your mobility.

Bursitis

Like arthritis, bursitis is another medical condition that affects the joints. Bursitis affects the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the body's bones, joints, tendons, and muscles. When these sacs, or bursa, swell, they can irritate the surrounding area. If this area is your foot or ankle, it can make walking painful. Likewise, bursitis of the knees or hips can also make everyday movements (such as walking) uncomfortable.

Cushioned inserts can relieve the added pressure on your feet, knees, and even hips. This can increase your overall mobility and decrease pain and foot fatigue.

Flat Feet

Flat feet are exactly what the name implies—feet with flattened arches. This condition is often painless. But over time, or with physical activity, the condition can worsen. If you experience pain from flat feet, a shoe insert can increase comfort. While it won't correct the flattened arch, it will prevent the entire sole from touching the ground when you walk.

Plantar Fasciitis

Muscle or ligament strain can result in this common foot condition. When the tissue that connects your heel with the ball of your foot (or plantar fascia) stretches too far, you may have pain when walking or standing.

It's probably you'll notice the pain of plantar fasciitis after you wake up and take your first few steps. The discomfort may decrease with movement. After diagnosis, your medical provider may recommend stretching exercises or physical therapy along with orthotics.

Heel Spurs

While often confused with plantar fasciitis, a true spur is a calcium deposit on the heel bone. Foot muscle and ligament strain is often the cause of this issue, and it is sometimes associated with over-stretching of the plantar fascia. Like plantar fasciitis, stretching, physical therapy, and specialty shoe inserts can ease the discomfort of a heel spur.

Whether you have an inflammation issue, flat feet, or another plantar problem, orthotics can decrease pain and improve your overall mobility. To learn more, discuss orthotics with a representative of a company like Bio  Tech Prosthetics and Orthotics.