Orthotics
ORTHOTICS
UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCES AND BENEFITS
Orthotics are a special type of assistive device that support, align, and improve the function of the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. They are of different types including insoles, braces, and custom-made orthotics that offer different benefits.
THE ROLE OF MOTOR LEARNING IN ORTHOTICS
Motor learning is the process by which the body learns and adapts to new movement patterns and postures. To properly use the orthotics, motor learning is critically important because when the patient wears an orthotic, they are actually teaching their body to move and function in a new way. The process of motor learning for orthotics is time-taking and demands constituency. But through practice, exercises, and physical therapy, it is possible to easily learn new movements and patterns associated with orthotic use.
The use of orthotics can help in the improvement of proprioceptive feedback, which is the awareness of the body of its position and movement in space. Such improvement in proprioceptive feedback allows the body to better recognize and respond to movement patterns that are more aligned and efficient. As the body adapts to the new movement patterns introduced by the orthotic, it becomes easier and more natural to maintain this improved alignment and function.
The role of motor learning in orthotics emphasizes the importance of consistent use and integration of the orthotic into daily activities. With time and practice, the body can learn to move and function more efficiently and with less pain and discomfort. This not only helps to alleviate the symptoms of conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and neuromas but can also help to prevent future injuries and improve overall movement and function.
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN INSOLES, ORTHOTICS, & PRI ORTHOTICS
Insoles
Insoles, also known as shoe inserts, are a type of orthotic that is designed to provide additional cushioning and support to the foot inside the shoe. They come in various shapes and sizes and are made from different types of materials such as foam, gel, and silicone. Insoles are not for the correction of foot mechanics or treatment of underlying lower extremity issues. However, they can be very beneficial for people who experience foot pain or discomfort while standing or walking.
Orthotics
As already mentioned, orthotics are custom-made devices that are designed to correct abnormal foot mechanics, improve alignment, and reduce pain and discomfort. Unlike insoles, orthotics are made specifically for an individual’s foot and are designed to provide a customized level of support and correction. They can help treat a range of conditions, including plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and neuromas, among others.
PRI orthotics
PRI orthotics are a special type of orthotic device that are customized to manage postural imbalances and asymmetries in the body. PRI orthotics are based on the principles of Postural Restoration, which emphasizes the importance of proper alignment and movement of the body. PRI orthotics are usually made of a softer and more flexible material as compared to traditional orthotics, allowing for a greater range of motion and flexibility. This characteristic is essentially beneficial for patients who want to maintain an active lifestyle and easily participate in sports or other physical activities without aggravating any symptoms. PRI orthotics are made in such a way that they readily work together with other PRI techniques and exercises that include breathing exercises and other specific movement patterns, to help improve overall postural alignment and function. In this way, PRI targets the root cause of the problem instead of just treating the symptoms, and thus, corrects postural malignment and promotes better function.
CONCLUSIONS
Choosing the right type of orthotic can be challenging, but it is important to take the time to explore your options and consult with a healthcare professional. Factors to consider include the severity of your condition, your activity level, and your overall health goals. By working with a healthcare professional and utilizing the right type of orthotic, you can improve your postural alignment, reduce pain and discomfort, and optimize your overall movement and function.
To obtain different types of custom orthotics for our patients, Higher Physical Therapy uses a foam impression system. Using our thorough knowledge of anatomy, we align the foot, knee, and leg in the optimum position & we will obtain relevant information such as your shoe size, type of shoes worn, diagnosis, activity level, and type of sports participation, if any.
SHORT VERSION:
Orthotics are devices that support and improve the function of the feet, ankles, and lower extremities. They come in different types such as insoles, braces, and PRI orthotics. Insoles provide extra cushioning while orthotics correct foot mechanics and treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis and flat feet. PRI orthotics are customized to manage postural imbalances and promote better function, allowing for an active lifestyle. Choosing the right type of orthotic is important for improving postural alignment, reducing pain and discomfort, and optimizing movement and function. For this, you can consult Higher Physical Therapy which provides custom orthotics that suit your requirements, and use a foam impression system and thorough knowledge of anatomy to design the most suitable orthotics for you.
Descriptions Service
PRI Orthotics are shoe inserts that change the mechanics of the feet and lower extremity to correct foot function. These custom made orthotics highly conform to the shape of the foot, non-compressible to provide support and flexible to allow a normal gait cycle. They are designed to be highly controlling and matched closely to the foot and shoe to achieve this goal.
*Some insurances will reimburse a partial amount. TBD on an individual basis. (Medicare does not cover, unfortunately).
PRI Orthotics are different than traditional orthotics in that the material is less firm, allows for movement, and is corrective in nature. It does not just accomodate the position your foot is already in.
To obtain these custom orthotics for our patients, Higher Physical Therapy uses a foam impression system.
Using our thorough knowledge of anatomy, we align the foot, knee and leg in optimum position & we will obtain relevant information such as your shoe size, type of shoes worn, diagnosis, activity level and type of sports participation, if any.