The use of foot orthotics are commonly prescribed for many lower quarter conditions including running injuries, foot and ankle pain, and even low back pain. As we have described in previous posts off the shelf orthotics perform as well as more expensive custom orthotics, but overall their impact on many conditions is limited. When compared to...
In our previous posts we have documented the weakness and atrophy of the foot’s “core” muscles among patients with heel pain. Heel pain is one of the most common foot and ankle diagnoses we see in our Boulder Physical Therapy Practice. This condition is commonly treated with manual therapy and exercises targeting the lower...
The human foot is a remarkable structure of 26 bones and 30+ joints integral to both walking and running. The foot must be able to both flatten (pronate) and absorb the forces of the body, as well as, become rigid (supinate) in preparation for propelling us forward. This balance of mobility and stability is accomplished...
Customized foot orthotics based off a clinical examination, plaster or foam cast have been utilized for decades in order to treat overuse injuries of the foot, ankle, knee, hip and even spine. These orthotics are usually not covered by insurance and usually run into the hundreds of dollars compared to an off the shelf model....