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The Benefits Of Arch Supports For Flat Feet

| Saturday, 12 January 2013
By Claire Bolton


Most people are aware of the fact that the arches of their feet are responsible for supporting their full weight. Whether or not a person has adequate arches will play a major role in his or her health. This is because those whose arches have failed to develop may suffer from neck and spine pain and experience early arthritis. However, those who invest in arch supports for flat feet can minimize or eliminate such problems.

Orthopedic footwear, arch supports and other devices were developed to realign one's back to a neutral position so that no discomfort or pain is felt. Shoes of this kind are manufactured with a raised platform on the sole's bed. This creates an arch for individuals whose feet are flat. Removable inserts, commonly referred to as arch supports, are also quite popular among those whose arches never properly developed.

The objective of arch support inserts is to alleviate the discomfort in the knees, hips, neck and back that is common in people with flat feet. If such strain is not controlled, the individual's body will naturally try to compensate, which results in chronic pain. Many people are entirely unaware of the fact that the pain and discomfort being experienced is the result of inadequate arch support.

Study suggests that inadequate sole support can cause one to develop arthritis of the knees and hips. However, the inserts mentioned above can reduce this pressure and tension on an individual's joints, and in many cases, prevent early arthritis. Additional studies suggest that essentially all people over the age of 40 can benefit to some degree from such devices. This is due to the fact that one's arches usually begin falling after age 35.

Shoe inserts of this type are available in various sizes and can be purchased in drugstores or sporting goods outlets. An affordable pair can be located by virtually anyone, as such devices are associated with a vast array of prices. Consumers should avoid basing their choice solely on cost, however, as it is not helpful to buy poor quality supports that will wear out in the near future.

Customized shoe inserts are also an option for certain individuals. However, such devices require a prescription from a podiatrist or medical doctor. The consumer will need an appointment and an evaluation before he or she can be fitted for prescription supports. Typically, a mold of the patient's foot is taken and sent to the company where the supports will be manufactured.

Other people who may find devices of this type very beneficial are those with painful heel spurs or bunions. Heel spurs occur when a small fragment of the individual's heel bone grows out at an awkward angle and puts pressure on the surrounding tissue. Significant pain and discomfort often accompanies bone spurs. A quality support can alleviate this type of pressure and subsequently lessen the person's discomfort.

A doctor or podiatrist may recommend custom-made arch supports for flat feet. However, some clients do fine with over-the-counter devices, which can offer similar benefits in certain circumstances. The severity of the individual's condition will be the determining factor regarding whether or not custom-made inserts are needed. Those who think they may be suffering from fallen arches or other problems with their feet should seek the advice of a podiatrist or physician.




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