Custom Orthotics in Gig Harbor, WA
Whether you enjoy your CrossFit classes throughout the week or you are a marathon runner, most active individuals will experience aches and pains in the foot and ankle at some point. Since most people don’t have perfect biomechanics, certain areas of the feet are taking on far more pressure and force than they should. While this can lead to problems for your feet over time, our podiatrist Dr. James D. McAlexander can provide you with custom orthotics to improve the function of your feet and prevent foot problems in the future.
What are Custom Orthotics?
Before you reach for those “one-size-fits-most” orthotics at your local drugstore, you might want to think again. These orthotics aren’t made from the highest quality materials and they aren’t designed with your specific needs in mind. Some of these premanufactured orthotics can cause further problems for your feet. This is why your best bet is to turn to our podiatrist for custom-made orthotics. These orthotics are not just made to fit your feet but also provide your feet with exactly what they need to function optimally, even if you’re dealing with preexisting foot problems.
How Custom Orthotics Can Improve Your Feet and Ankles
The orthotics that our podiatry team customizes for you can offer your feet a variety of benefits including:
- A reduction in the foot, ankle, leg, back, and hip pain
- Ample support, particularly for the heels and arches of the feet
- Improved foot mechanics
- Alleviating pressure spots and distributing weight more evenly throughout the feet
- Improving foot alignment
- Preventing deformities and foot problems from getting worse
Who Can Benefit from Custom Orthotics?
Most people can benefit from custom orthotics, not just athletes (even though athletes should strongly consider how orthotics could improve the health and function of their feet and ankles). Certain health conditions, in particular, could benefit from orthotics. These conditions include:
- Bunions
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Diabetic feet
- Plantar fasciitis
- Flat feet
- High arches
- Obesity
If you spend more than five hours a day standing, custom orthotics can help take the pressure off certain parts of your feet and can prevent soreness, aching, pain, and discomfort after a long day. Children, teens, adults, and seniors can all benefit from orthotics for different reasons.