Postural Effects from Imbalances in the Feet:

  • A loss of arch height will cause a flattening and rolling in of the foot this is termed pronation. Because everything is connected, the bones of the leg also inwardly rotate.
  • Excessive rotation of the bones of the leg (tibia and femur) will cause unnecessary stresses on the knee as well as twisting of the pelvis and spine. If the pronation is more prevalent on one side, there can be a resultant unleveling of the pelvis and a functional scoliosis.
  • Tilting of the pelvis places tension on muscles and connective tissues, which can eventually lead to chronic back problems.
  • High levels of heel-strike shock can result from breakdown of the body’s natural shock absorbers. The shock wave then transmits up the kinetic chain causing painful symptoms all the way up to the head, slowed recovery of leg and spine injuries, and aggravation of other conditions.

Benefits of Orthotics:

  • Properly fitted custom made orthotics support the foot to control excessive and unwanted pronation and supination. This helps to reduce unwanted stress on the body.
  • Improved shock absorption reduces repetitive stress on joints and muscles, permitting smoother function and decreasing arthritic symptoms.
  • Use of custom made orthotics represents a long-term, yet cost-effective, intervention for many types of functional and structural problems.

How Orthotics Work:

  • Wearing custom made orthotics inside your shoes is similar to placing a shim beneath the leg of a wobbly table: it adds support to eliminate unwanted motion in the entire structure.
  • The foot is formed of three distinct arches, which create an architectural vault. The result of supporting these three arches is improved stability and postural integrity.
  • Custom made orthotics encourage optimal muscle and nerve function by guiding the feet through a more normal pattern with each step taken.

How Custom Orthotics Affect Your Body