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How Orthotics Help Reduce Back Pain

Back pain is a serious issue that can create more problems if the root cause is not treated. Nearly 65 million Americans have reported issues with back pain and 16 million have chronic back pain. This can limit your daily activities, impact your mood, and reduce your quality of life if left untreated. If you have had back pain for more than two weeks it’s time for medical intervention. One of the most effective and non-invasive methods to treat back pain is custom orthotics. Below you will find how orthotics help reduce back pain and why you should contact a podiatrist.

How Orthotics Help Reduce Back Pain

Orthotics can manage back pain as they assist in improving and stabilizing the position of your feet. This can have a ripple effect on your whole body, including your back. Podiatrists refer to this theory as the kinetic chain as your feet are the base and each joint above it is linked to the one below it. Therefore, if you have issues with your feet it will inevitably impact your back and neck if left untreated.

A great example of this is when your feet are rolled inwards (also referred to as “pronated”). When your feet are rolled inwards, they can impact the entire chain of your gate, including your knees, hips, back, and neck. This is because pronated feet cause your knees to turn inward. When your knees are turned inward, they can affect your hips due to the unnatural angle. This can destabilize your pelvis and impact your lower back, leading to unnecessary pain.

Custom orthotics in Los Angeles can be created based on your unique needs. This can help realign your feet to improve your stride, which will have a positive impact on your back. They can reduce your back pain without any invasive medical intervention and get you back to fully living. Back pain should not impact your day-to-day activities as physical independence is important for your mental well-being.

Custom Orthotics and Your Treatment Plan

Back pain often requires a multi-factor approach. In some cases, custom orthotics may be enough. However, you should work closely with the podiatrist as they can provide a variety of treatment options to address your unique needs. Orthotics have consistently been an integral component in treating back pain. Below are some of the most common types of custom orthotics.

  • Rigid Orthotics: These are the most common type of custom orthotics. The orthotics are made of hard, rigid material. Still, they are the length of your entire foot and are used to stabilize your foot and reduce pain from your foot to your back.
  • Soft Orthotics: This is another type of orthotic that is commonly prescribed. The orthotics are made of soft, compressible material and are the length of your entire foot. The orthotics help relieve pressure from weight-bearing areas on your feet, such as your heel or the balls of your feet.
  • Semirigid Orthotics: This type of orthotic is a combination of both rigid and soft orthotics. They have a hard bottom layer and a soft portion that serves as padding. These are often prescribed to athletes as they provide protection, support, and stability.

Foot and Ankle Doctor in Beverly Hills

If you have been struggling with back pain, you are not alone. Millions of Americans experience both short-term and persistent back pain. Still, you should not live with either as it can impact your daily life. The team at Jamfeet can provide you with effective treatment options to address your back pain. Contact the top foot and ankle doctor in Beverly Hills today to schedule an appointment!