Foot Orthotics Comparison

Question: I’m interested in full length custom orthotics to put in hiking boots for hiking in the mountains.  I have plantar fasciitis in one foot.  What is the difference between your $99 model and $199 model?  What are the life expectancies?  Thanks.  – Mark

Answer: Our $99 product is considered a semi-custom device. At Footcare Express, we have a library of engineered shells that are used to match the length, width and arch height of your foam cast impression. The $199 product is a completely custom-made arch support designed and fabricated from your foam cast impression. These custom arch supports are manufactured using a variety of different materials based on discomforts, activity, use, etc. (Cast Foam Impressions are provided once purchase is made)

In either case, the materials are durable. The life expectancies for any of our products really depend on the amount and type of usage. We have had customers and patients replace their custom devices yearly, while others have gotten much longer “life”. Softer materials can wear and will out quicker. In most cases, each of these products can simply be refurbished without having to fabricate an entirely new product. Refurbish fees may vary.

I hope you find this information useful. Should you require any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us again.

Sincerely,
Customer Service Team

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Flat Fleet

Flat Feet

Flat Feet is more or less a condition of fallen arches. The instep, or arch, collapses and becomes flat against the ground. Hence the term flat foot. Flat feet are not always a result of a collapse, some arches never develop properly. When we are babies, our feet are flat and the arch normally over time. As long as there is no ball of foot pain or any other difficulties resulting from the condition there is no real need to seek treatment.

If you suspect you have flat feet, just take a look. In general flat feet do have a flat look to them and unusual wear of shoe soles can also indicate flat feet. If you suffer from lower leg pain, pain from the ankle into the instep of the of the foot or foot pain in general, this may be a result of flat feet.

If you suspect you have, and are suffering foot care issues you may wish to see a podiatrist for treatment.  Treatments are available and your podiatrist will prescribe them based on the cause of a particular case of flat feet. These treatments may include but are not limited to shoe inserts, arch supports, custom orthotics, braces, surgery or just anti inflammatory medication.

Living with minor pain from flat feet without treatment might seem normal but if the condition worsens it could lead to complications. Besides the expected swelling an pain in the soles of the feet, shin splints, stress fractures, Achilles tendinitis and bunions can develop. Seek the advice of a podiatrist or a foot specialist who can help with preventative measures.

Arthritic Conditions

Arthritic Conditions

Arthritis means pain within a joint and is the leading cause of disability in America. It knows no age, and is a blanket diagnosis for a number of conditions.  Currently, Arthritis has no known cure but there are many forms of treatment available to help ease the discomfort associated with arthritis.

When it comes to the foot and ankle, there are three types of arthritis known to effect the area.  They are Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Post-Traumatic Arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition and becomes more noticeable to the sufferer at the onset of middle age.  During one’s life the cartilage in the lower extremities can become worn and frayed. This can cause swelling, joint pain, and inflammation. Osteoarthritis will most likely worsen over time.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is different than Osteoarthritis because this form of Arthritis attacks the entire system and the degenerative properties of the cartilage stem from the body’s own immune system.

Post Traumatic Arthritis occurs following some type of injury that leaves behind some form of scar tissue. It may due to a fracture, extreme sprain, or ligament tear. These type of injuries are very common but over time the remnants of the injury can produce arthritic symptoms.

The use of custom foot orthotics can provide some relief for those who are suffering from Arthritis. Custom orthoses will stabilize the foot and ankle and provide heel and arch support. This will bring the foot and ankle into alignment and help reduce the discomfort related to arthritis. It is important to seek the advice of a doctor if you believe you are suffering symptoms of foot and ankle arthritis.

Arch Strain

Arch Pain / Arch Strain

Arch Strain or Arch Pain is simply inflammation in the arch of the foot causing a burning feeling or in some cases acute pain. There are many causes for this type of foot pain.

There may be some structural instability or imbalance in the foot which can directly cause discomfort. The most common ocurrence of foot arch pain is as a result of Plantar Fasciitis.  Plantar Fasciitis Orthotics can be fabricated to help alleviate or correct the pain.

There is a band of tissue running across the bottom of the foot called the plantar fascia extending from the forefoot to the heel. When the plantar fascia becomes stressed due to over exertion or irritation,  Plantar Fasciitis can occur.

Those with flat feet often suffer from Plantar Fasciitis and experience pain in the heel and arch when the plantar fascia is stretched at the heel. An indicator of Plantar Fasciitis is heal or arch pain occurring in the morning or after long periods of rest.

Extreme discomfort is often the extent of the damage associated with this condition but in some cases, if not treated, heel spurs can occur. Heel spurs are bony protrusions from the heel.

Plantar Fasciitis and foot arch pain are easy to treat. The first line of defense is choosing proper shoes. Avoid high heels and look for shock absorbing soles. Custom Orthotics are a great method of treating Plantar Fasciitis especially when it’s due to flat feet. Orthoses will correct the instability in the foot and provide proper arch support.

When suffering from foot discomfort due to a strained arch it is recommended to seek out a custom fit orthotic and not when purchased over the counter at a drugstore or supermarket. A device that has not been cast from a 3-D mold of the foot will not correct the specific problems of the foot. Improper fitting inserts or insoles could result in damage to the foot or an increase in pain.

Ankle Injuries

Ankle Injuries

Ankle fractures and strains are very common injuries because the ankle needs to support the entire weight of the human body. Orthopedists and podiatrists treat millions of ankle injuries every year.

Most ankle injuries involve a sudden twist and possible overstretch or strain of a muscle or tendon. When the connective tissue becomes stretched or strained it is called a sprain. Avulsion fracture occurs when a piece of bone is torn away along with a connective ligament.

The majority of ankle injuries treated today are inversion injuries which means the foot will twist inward causing damage to the outside of the foot. Injuries to the medial ligaments of the inside of the foot are less common but are caused by the foot twisting outward.

Sprains can be either mild, moderate or severe and this depends on the seriousness of the ligament tear. Most physicians will order x-rays to rule out more severe damage such as dislocation or fracture. If the injury is indeed a sprain it can usually be treated with rest, ice, compression and elevation.

To reduce pain and swelling in the ankle area anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs can help but should only be used as directed.  Most ankle strains and sprains will heal in two to six weeks. With more severe injuries taking up to twelve weeks to heal and rehabilitation to provide renewed strength and balance may be required.

Individuals suffering from ankle issues are at risk for further injury. For this reason it is important to consider shoes that provide stability and support. Custom orthotics will help provide further stability following and help prevent further or future damage.

A sprain or strain very rarely requires surgery but in those rare cases there are surgical solutions to rid people of nagging and persistent pain. Torn ligaments however, often require surgery in order to be reattached to the bone. These type of procedures usually take up to two months to heal. Arthroscopic procedures are also available to treat chronic pain by removing damaged cartilage, bone fragments and scar tissue.

Everyone is at risk for ankle injuries whether they are an athlete or just engaging in normal activity. It is important to warm up, stretch the calves, and cool down properly when exercising to reduce the the risk of injury.