What You Need To Know Concerning Over The Counter Orthotics

By Della Monroe


In the modern world, it is not a must to visit a hospital for medical supplies. You can easily get orthotics, flu shots, wart removal and eye glasses from any drug store. Many pharmacies have opened up orthotic kiosks in many parts of the country. These facilities are convenient but still doctors and physiotherapies raise concerns because of over the counter orthotics.

According to research, many knee pain cases can be easily relieved by purchasing orthotics being sold in kiosks. The common ones are placed into shoes. They are shaped just like a normal shoe to alleviate arch problems and provide extra support. They are mainly sold to those with pain on feet as a result of wearing shoes which are not comfortable, flat feet or suffering from strains.

The issue with self-prescription is that the real issue will not be dealt with. Many people tend to focus on relieving the pain but not the underlying cause. Also, physical therapists report that these orthopedic supplies will worsen the problems most of the time because of wrong usage. Things like core weakness and improper hip muscle flexibility cannot be solved fully by such things. The foot pain is just one symptom amongst many in this kind of conditions.

Over the counter orthopedic supplies only makes the pain go away but the problem will still persist. However, you need a specialist to perform tests and examinations in order to come up with an accurate diagnosis. Muscle imbalances may manifest like foot pain but this can only be known after performing screening of the entire body. Stretch exercises or extra supportive shoes may have to be ordered at the end.

You are the determinant of the type of orthotics to go for. This can be customized or regular. Few stores deal with the personalized one but you cannot miss a regular one in a large number of drugstores. To note is that the former is very costly and there is no need to strain in getting one if it is beyond your financial capabilities. The other one will still deliver good results if used.

The good news is that some insurance companies cover against such expenses. However, you will only get your money back if you have bought a personalized orthotic. The pricing difference comes about because of material quality and other characteristic taken into account when making this kind of shoe insert. Also, they last for a longer duration compared to regular ones.

If you are purchasing orthotics over the counter make sure you choose a type which has been made from strong plastic or the polymers of plastic. These ones are strong and it is difficult for them to lose their functionality. Softer ones go flat with the initial use and they will not help you. There is not any difference between their use and putting on your shoe. You will be wasting your time and money by purchasing them.

Another alternative is using a blend of the two kinds of orthotic. The problem with this kind is that the effectiveness will depend on the molding process. A true custom shoe insert takes the shape of your foot into consideration.




About the Author: