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Insoles, inserts, arch supports, and orthotic devices all provide support, but what’s the difference and what do you need? Like any building, the foundation of support is crucial. Think how irritating it is to sit at a table that rocks because the base is not in balance. The human body is no different – and that balance and support begins with your feet. So today, Dr. Joel Segalman and Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC, are sharing information regarding how to make sure your feet are getting the support they need.
Supporting Your Feet
The best place to begin is with your shoes - discovering the right shoe is more than just pinching the big toe. Aligning the arch, toe length, and heel will guarantee proper fit and function. The shoe should work with the foot, not against it.
A simple test is to bend your shoe, and the point at which it bends should be the same place where the toes also bend. If it bends elsewhere, there could be a functional discrepancy between the foot and the shoe.
Once the proper shoes have been chosen, attention can then be directed to what’s within the shoe. Some shoes are made with removable inserts, which are often thin, soft, and provide little or no support.
This can be frustrating to those who are in pursuit of the perfect footwear. That’s why at times it becomes necessary to replace the inside of the shoe with either custom orthotic devices or over-the-counter insoles.
How Custom Orthotics Can Help
When you consider the way your feet function, the way you walk, your alignment, custom devices are designed and created to accommodate all of your unique features. Helping to provide function, postural balance, and symmetry will not only be more comfortable, but will also go a long way in reducing problems or pain.
The first step in providing your feet with the support they need is to visit the office of Dr. Joel Segalman and Dr. Stephen Lazaroff at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC. To schedule an appointment, you can call our Waterbury office at (203) 755-0489 or our Newtown location at (203) 270-6724.
We will perform an examination and offer guidance on what will make your feet function and feel the best that they possibly can. Orthotic devices and shoe recommendations are a great way to make that happen.