How Do I Know if I Need Orthotics?

You may know them as orthotics, insoles, footbeds or inserts. Regardless of what you call them, not many of us have perfect feet. This means almost everyone can benefit from an orthopedic shoe. However, orthotics may help some of us more than others. Read on to learn the common signs you need orthotics and if they could be a good fit for you.

Five Signs You Need Orthotics

1. You Stand for More than Five Hours a Day – Standing on your feet for many hours can cause plantar fasciitis, an overuse injury to the plantar fascia. The plantar fascia is a ligament that extends from your heel to your toes on the base of your foot. Orthotics can help relieve the stress you place on it from standing all day.
2. Your Shoes Are Worn Out – Take a look at the tread on your shoes. However, while many of our soles are worn down, wearing the tread of your shoes out on one side more than the other can be a sign that your foot is rolling inward (also called pronating) or turning outward (also called supinating.) Orthotics can help foot pronation or supination.
3. You Have No Arch or a High Arch in Your Foot – If you have very high or low arches, regular shoes may not provide your feet the support they need. Orthotics can help provide the support that your regular shoes don’t.
4. You Have Severe Pain in Your Foot or Heel – While this may sound obvious, many people avoid foot pain. Instead, they blame the pain on wearing high heels or uncomfortable shoes. Foot or heel pain, especially in the morning, is a common sign of plantar fasciitis.
5. You Just Had an Injury on a Lower Limb – If you recently suffered an injury to your hip, knee, leg or ankle, it could be affecting the pressure you put on your feet. As a result, this affects the way you walk. Orthotics may be able to help correct your walk.

Who Should I See If I Need Orthotics?

If you’re on the fence about orthotics, visit your primary care physician. Your primary care physician will help you decide if orthotics can help and refer you to a podiatrist if necessary. If you are experiencing significant foot pain, reach out to a podiatrist right away.

Whether you need a podiatrist or a primary care provider, Mercy Health is here to help. Our caregivers offer expert, compassionate care across Ohio and Kentucky. Call 513-952-5000 or visit mercy.com to find a doctor near you today.