Orthotics are devices aim to enhance the support for one’s foot in a shoe to promote good health. While these devices have historically been utilized by senior citizens, orthotics are now becoming extremely popular, and sometimes even required, within the sporting world. What senior citizens had right about orthotics was that they provide unique and customized supportfor each individual, help to alleviate imbalances in stride and uncomfortable shoes, and improve overall movement. Now, within the activity and recreation world, orthotics are becoming a key part of any successful activity, professional or casual. Activities that involve standing for long periods of time are especially affected, and among them, hiking. Here, we will discuss 5 signs that your hiking experience will be greatly improved with the help of orthotics.
1. You’re On Your Feet All Day
This might seem like a no-brainer, but when hiking, you are primarily using your feet. However, if your boot does not support your unique foot, then you will most likely be experiencing some discomfort and even pain after a long day of hiking. Over time, these slight discomforts can compound and eventually cause more lasting damage to your foot, stride, and even hips. By working with an orthotics expert, finding the kind of support that your foot needs will be a piece of cake, and you will notice a huge difference in the quality of your hikes.
2. Your Tread Is Uneven
For most of us, if you take a look at the bottom of your shoe, oftentimes one side of the shoe will be more worn than the other, the heel of the shoe is essentially gone while the toe is intact, or other issues where parts of the shoe show more ware than other parts. This is a good indication that you would benefit from orthotics. Your walk is uneven if any of these things are true, and while it might not bother you now, these issues can become problematic over time if no efforts to correct them are made.
3. You’ve Got Strange Arches
The arch of our feet is unique to each person, however, the mechanics of what a good arch needs to be is fairly understood within the orthopedic world. Regardless if you’ve got high arches or flat arches, typical hiking boots do not accommodate either. Hiking boots are typically made with standard arch support, and if your arches are not standard, then the support will not be right for you. Fortunately, any hiking boot can be altered with the help of professional orthotics.
4. You’ve Got Pain
This is another thing that might seem obvious, but if there is any pain inyour foot after a hike that is not normal, then most likely your boot is not optimized for your foot. Once again, most boots are made with a “standard mold”. These molds will not accommodate the nuances of each person’s foot, so in reality, orthotics should be for everyone who does a sport, especially hiking. If there is any pain, that is a clear indication that you should look into custom orthotics, so you are not doing damage to your feet.
5. If There Is Any Change To Your Walk
Custom orthotics for your boots will be even more critical if you have had any kind of corrective surgery on your hips, legs, or feet. If you had been getting along alright with your previous boots, after the surgery your stride will be different. Your boots will no longer support you in the same way, and what you might’ve found useful the year before will now cause more damage than good. This is an example of the optimal time to reevaluate your inserted orthotics. If there has been a change to your stride, then it’s time for a change in your inserts!
Where Do I Get A Pair Of Personalized Orthotics For My Hiking Boots?
The Shoe Doctor has specialized in providing custom orthotics for 20 years. The right orthotic insoles can greatly reduce foot, knee and hip pain, while increasing performance and comfort. Russell at The Shoe Doctor will help educate and assist you in finding the perfect solution for your particular situation. We will create a 3D map of your feet and make custom orthotics for your hiking boots, everyday shoes, and everything else in between. These orthotics, along with our expert advice, will get you using orthotics like a pro, and have you performing at your peak of your abilities in no time! If you are in the San Francisco Bay Area, give The Shoe Doctor a call to get the best custom orthotics in the area! We are here to assist you, give us a call at (925) 820-0220 for your free consultation!
Sources:
1. https://knoxvillehospital.org/four-signs-may-need-orthotics-feet/
2. https://treadlabs.com/blogs/insoles-reach-your-stride/how-should-hiking-boots-fit
3. https://thehikingadventure.com/best-insoles-for-hiking
4. https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/what-are-shoe-orthotics#1
