Arthritis - How Orthotics Can Help

Experiencing leg or foot pain is frustrating, but common among Arthritis patients. Merely putting the foot forward can cause agonizing pain and induce stress in other body parts. Performing everyday activities like walking and running can start to feel like an ordeal for those with Arthritis. The pain can be minor, moderate, or acute, depending on the level of joint inflammation.

Although there is no cure for Arthritis, custom orthotics can provide relief from symptoms and reduce the progress of the disease. How? This blog explains how customized orthotics can transform the lives of Arthritis sufferers meaningfully.

What is Arthritis & How Does It Cause Foot Pain?

Arthritis is caused by inflammation in one or more joints. It results in joint pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and a reduction in the range of motion of the joint. Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the small joints of the foot and ankle. The most common types of foot-related Arthritis are explained below:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis involves the gradual wearing of the cartilage. This results in pain, stiffness, tenderness, and loss of balance. Osteoarthritis symptoms develop slowly, but worsen over time. Some people hear grating or crunching noises when moving their feet and ankles. The symptoms can be managed with the use of custom orthotics, combined with a variety of other treatment techniques.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease that often starts in the foot and ankle. In Rheumatoid Arthritis sufferers, the body’s immune system attacks healthy cells, causing pain in the foot. Over time, joint inflammation can result in bone erosion and joint deformity.

Posttraumatic Arthritis

Posttraumatic Arthritis develops after an injury to the foot or ankle, such as bone dislocation and fracture. Studies say an injured joint is at seven times more risk of becoming Arthritic. The inflamed joint can cause excruciating pain, especially during intense activities.

How Orthotics Help People with Foot Arthritis

Orthotics are custom-made medical devices, commonly used to align and support foot or ankle problems. The most commonly used orthotics are shoe inserts. They offer cushioning support to feet reeling under constant pain and discomfort. Premium custom orthotics are made based on measurements of the unique features of the foot, and are engineered to meet the patient’s specific alignment needs. Orthotics Direct is a world leader in the provision of premium custom orthotics.

Here’s how orthotics can be instrumental in helping people with Arthritis:

Pain Reduction: Orthotics distribute body weight more evenly, alleviating pressure on sensitive areas, and cutting back pain while walking or standing.

Improved Joint Alignment: Custom orthotic devices correct structural irregularities in the foot and ankle. They relieve joint stress, preventing further damage and slowing the progression of Arthritis.

Improved Mobility: Custom Orthotics enhance joint function by providing stability and proper alignment.

Shock Absorption: Customized orthotic insoles are made using shock-absorbing materials. Orthotics reduce pressure on affected Arthritic joints during movements.

Gait Correction: Orthotics can help correct gait abnormalities due to Arthritis, ensuring a more natural and fluid walking pattern.

Prevention of Secondary Issues: Arthritis affects more than your joints. It impacts how a person moves. Custom orthotics can provide indirect support to the knees and lower back.

Orthotics are pivotal in helping people with Arthritis lead more comfortable and active lives. Simply wearing custom orthotics will not offer immediate relief, but over time, the wearer will notice a reduction of symptoms, and an improved quality of life.

Emerging studies support the value of custom orthotics in the treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. Studies hail the long-term benefits of custom foot orthotics, especially in slowing the progression of Arthritis in affected joints.

Take the first step toward gaining relief from Arthritis pain. Reach out to Orthotics Direct to customize a pair of orthotics that meet your specific needs. Consider consulting your doctor for a thorough examination.

Get Orthotics Support & Relieve Arthritic Foot Pain

Arthritis in feet is a chronic problem that will not go away easily. You have options to improve your quality of life. Do not let Arthritis pain define how you wish to live. Fight back with premium custom orthotics from Orthotics Direct.

At Orthotics Direct, we build custom orthotics to manage Arthritis and similar foot conditions. Shop by foot condition or lifestyle. Orthotics Direct has you covered. Trusted by podiatrists, and with 20 years of experience, Orthotics Direct delivers custom-made orthotics to your doorstep in Canada.