Orthotics? Really Kimberly?

Yes yes, I know.. but also are you like 500 years old? We all have our issues, and one of mine starts with my feet. I recently visited my podiatrist for other reasons and at the end of my appointment, it was recommended to me that I get custom orthotics. Why you ask? Well, my doctor told me I had early onset bunions, which sounds gross, but is actually very common. It’s essentially a bony point on the joint that rounds out at the base of your big toe. I never really understood what a “bunion” was until the doctor explained it to me and I read more about it.

Causes of bunions include usage of tight narrow shoes, stress, inherited structural defects or medical condition like arthritis. A bunion is a bony projection that develops on the joint at the base of the big toe as a result of the realignment of the big toe joint. It can be treated by medication or surgery based on the intensity of the condition. It is a progressive deformity that limits the movement of toes and is associated with pain.
Data from Focus Medica

When I read that I was like, WELP. The doc is right, let’s nip it in the bud! If orthotics can help this situation, I’m here for it! I called the office back, scheduled an appointment to get my feet 3D scanned for custom orthotics, and BAM! Two weeks later, I had custom inserts that I can wear in BASICALLY any shoe. I cannot not believe how perfect they slid into my shoes and how comfortable they are. They’re very unusual looking (maybe because I’ve never actually seen REAL orthotics before), and look uncomfortable, but wow, I’m so impressed.

Custom Orthotics

Dr. Robert Buckenberger

So now the question I ask myself is, will I wear them every day? It has now been about a month and a half since that appointment and I have worn them a good 90% of the time! The other 10% is mainly due to shoes they didn’t fit in, so I think I’m winning this battle already! Now that I have the bunion issue on lock down, I figured these MUST help other issues I have going on.

Demetra Slip on Sneaker

by Vionic

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Here are 10 Reasons Why Orthotics Are Good for You and Your Feet!

Orthotics cushion your feet
One of the main reasons orthotics are used is to provide a comfortable cushioning for the feet. This cushioning will help to absorb shock when walking or running. Cushion also reduces knee movement that isn’t necessary and that may cause injury.
Orthotics support your arches
For people with flat feet, orthotics provide arch support to keep the foot aligned and to help control the foot from rolling inward (over-pronation). For people with medium arches, orthotics absorb shock and prevent pain. And for those with high arch feet, orthotics provide a wonderful cushion.
Orthotics are designed to correct the function of all the parts of your body that move
Did you know that even headaches can be a direct result of posture-related foot problems?
Orthotics help to evenly distribute your weight
Orthotics can help take pressure off spots on the body that are sore due to uneven weight distribution.
Orthotics take unwanted pressure off your joints
Because orthotics help absorb shock, the pressure on the joints is reduced. This is especially helpful to people with flat feet and little arch support. Many times, simply wearing orthotics will stop their joint pain all together.
Orthotics help prevent twisted ankles
Many orthotics have heel cups that prevent the foot and ankle from twisting. Runners and other athletes use them for precisely this reason.
Orthotics can help you run, walk and move faster
When your feet are healthy, there’s nothing holding you back. Pain and discomfort slow you down, and orthotics can easily prevent those nuisances from happening.
Orthotics can prevent future damage to your feet
When children wear orthotics, it gives the bone structure in their feet the opportunity to develop normally. For adults with normal feet, orthotics can help prevent injury form occurring.
Orthotics help prevent bunions, calluses and corns
By creating a soft barrier between your feet and your shoes, orthotics prevent shoe rubbing and friction. This stops those sometimes painful and nasty bunions, calluses and corns from even starting to form.
Orthotics help to keep your feet healthy and clean
Many orthotics are made with anti-bacterial and anti-odor materials that keep your feet protected inside your shoes.

Beltsville Foot & Ankle Center

With all that being said, I’d like to just point out that my shoes fit more comfortably, I can wear them longer and I’m starting to feel like they’re helping my joint pain in my knees.

If you don’t have the option of getting custom orthotics made, there are so many other options out there like the one below. I highly recommend giving it go, it truly doesn’t hurt to try!