Why wear Foot Orthotics?

Foot orthotics are primarily used to control excess-pronation of the foot, where it is estimated that around 75% of the population suffer from ‘excess-pronation’ (2). A low arch foot exhibiting excessive pronation predisposes the athlete to injury (3,4. Furthermore, increased levels of physical activity increase susceptibility to injury (1).

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Role of Orthotics in Injury Management:

Foot orthotics can be used in ‘Injury Management’, for the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries. Many lower-extremity & lower back symptoms has been successfully treated with foot orthotics (5,6). Only recently has there been interest in the effects of foot orthoses on postural-stability in the general and sporting population (7). Pelvic instability / pelvic malalignment arising from excessive pronation is considered as one of the many predisposing factors for hamstring strains - where the prescription of foot orthotics forms part of the multi-disciplined team approach to effective prevention and  treatment (8). Despite the benefits of orthotics, the mechanisms that evoke positive changes remain elusive (9). Finally, foot orthotics should be used in conjunction with a suitable rehabilitation package as part of a multi-disciplined team approach (2).

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Foot Orthotics

What are Foot Orthotics?

A foot orthotic is a simple device that is inserted into the athlete’s footwear to support and align structures, thus correct abnormal foot motion, while improving function and efficiency of the foot and lower limb during sporting activity. Efficient, injury-free functioning of the lower extremity often depends on normal foot function (1).

References:

1. Cornwall, M.W. (2000). Common Pathomechanics of the Foot. Journal of Athletic Therapy Today. 5(1),10-16.

2.  Vasyli, (2005). Lower Limb Biomechanics Workshops - Part 1, 2. Manchester Sept. & Nov. 2005.

3.  Quinn, G. (2007). Foot Posture, Biomechanics & Orthotic Selection Workshop. Cheshire, July 2007.

4. Razeghi, M. Batt, M.E. (2000). Biomechanical Analysis of the Effect of Orthotic Shoe Inserts.  Journal of Sports  Medicine, 29, 425-438.

5. Ball, K., Afheldt, M. (2002).  Evolution of Foot Orthotics - Part 1: Coherent Theory or  Coherent Practice? Journal of Physical Therapy. 25, 116- 124.

6. Landorf, K.B., Keenan, A.M. (2000). Efficacy of Foot Orthoses. Journal of American Podiatric Medical Association. 90(3), 149-158.

7. Percy, M., Menz, H. (2001). Effects of Prefabricated Foot Orthoses and Soft Insoles in Postural Stability in Professional Soccer Players. Journal of American Podiatric Medical Association 91, 194-202.

8. Fleet, T., Edge, D. Catterall, K., et al. (2008). Prevention of Hamstring Injuries in a Professional Football Club: using a multi-discipline sports medicine team approach. Journal of Sportex Dynamics, 15, 10-14.

9. MacLean, C., Davis, I., Hamill, J. (2006). Influence of a Custom Foot Orthotic Intervention on Lower Extremity Dynamics in Healthy Runners. Journal of Clinical Biomechanics. 21, 623-630.

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