Walk it like I talk it
Author: Dr. Maria Parisien, Chiropractor
Did you know that Station Street Health’s chiropractors are trained to analyse your gait, and can create custom fit orthotics? If it is determined that your knee, hip or low back complaints link back to an imbalance within your gait or foot mechanics, an orthotic may be helpful for you!
How do they work?
Much like glasses work on your eyes –custom orthotic helps to positions the foot and ankle into the most anatomically efficient position which can help redirect and reduce certain motion that takes place during the gait cycle. Custom orthotics fit into your shoes as comfortably as an insole - and they have the advantage of having been made from precise imprints of your feet.
What is the process?
Our chiropractors will consider your needs before they recommend a custom fit orthotics. If they feel that orthotic may be an appropriate biomedical device for you they will ask you a series of questions to get to a better understanding of what orthotic type may fit your needs and complaints. They will then assess your foot statically and dynamically as well as observe your gait, and evaluate your foot and ankle range of motion. Our chiropractors will take a foam mold of your foot which is what the orthotic will be made from.
How long does it take for the orthotic to work?
Since the custom orthotic works to realign the structure of your foot you may feel pressure in some areas as the custom orthotic attempts to do its job. For this reason custom orthotics should be worn in two hour intervals and slowly extend the wear time over a period of two weeks. Some patients state that immediately upon wearing the orthotic it feels incredible, in other patients it take a couple of weeks for your body to get use to them.
Do I have to wear them forever if I start?
The short answer is no. Custom orthotics will not reduce muscles tone. They will help position your foot so you will be using the right muscles at the right time, minimizing fatigue and allowing your muscles to be used more efficiently. Our chiropractors always like to give you exercises to help to strengthening the plantar aspect of your feet at the same time. In the long-term, strengthening and mobilizing the foot and ankle while wearing the orthotic can lead to favourable results.
