Danforth Foot Clinic Newsletter
May is National Foot Health Month
Orthotics: Sorting Out the ConfusionDuring some point in our lives, over 80% of the population will suffer from foot related ailments. For some it will remain a minor annoyance but for others it will mean pain, discomfort and even disability. In many cases, these problems are related to the inefficient functioning of the foot. The most common dysfunction is when the leg turns inward and the foot flattens excessively, this is known as over pronation. A certain amount of pronation is normal and necessary. When this motion is excessive, it is the primary cause for the gradual development of bunions, hammer/ claw toes, heel pain and foot fatigue. Due to the foot’s critical role in how the body functions, problems of the feet can also lead to many common ankle, knee, hip, and low back ailments. An orthotic is a custom-made, corrective, removable device that is placed within the shoe to hold the foot in a specific position and/or to control excessive motion, thus allowing the joints to function closer to their normal limits. As a result of the foot control, muscles are able to gain mechanical advantage and move the foot and leg more efficiently. Futhermore, when the muscles work better they will not tire out as easily and many symptoms can be alleviated. Dry, Callused or Cracked Skin? In the summer, our heels can become very dry and problematic. The use of cream can help. Selecting creams that contain urea help the skin maintain moisture content and keep the skin supple. It is important to maintain the skin’s optimal condition, as it is the body’s natural defence to bacteria and other types of infections. Regular application of cream and the use of a pumice stone or file during or immediately after showering will help the skin remain in good health. |
The things you should know before getting a pair of orthotics…
|