Are Orthotics An Arch Support?

Often orthotics are recommended, but are they just an arch support?

As opposed to an arch support that can be purchased at many stores, an orthotic has some distinct advantages:

1. Orthotics are designed to last for years, instead of months from an arch support.

2. An arch support (and most shoes) are designed for the average foot, but an orthotic is custom made for your foot.

3. Although an arch support will provide support to the arch, the orthotic supports the entire foot and cradles the heel.

4. An arch support may flatten with running or increased pressure, where an orthotic will be firm and maintain the position of the foot.

5. An orthotic actually improves or optimizes walking or running patterns by rotating the foot into "neutral position". In this position, the foot functions at the highest level.

Dr Brandt R Gibson, DPM
Mountain West Foot & Ankle Institute
36 North 1100 East, Suite B
American Fork, UT 84003
(801)756-0765
http://www.utahfootdoc.com/