At Turramurra Physiotherapy, we often recommend orthotics for pain relief as part of a personalized treatment plan. These devices—custom-made or prefabricated—can significantly reduce discomfort caused by foot misalignment, back strain, and poor posture. When used correctly and in conjunction with physiotherapy, orthotics offer lasting benefits that go beyond temporary relief.
How Orthotics Help with Back Pain
Back pain is one of the most common complaints among our clients. Surprisingly, the source often starts at the feet. When your feet are not properly supported, it can alter the alignment of your knees, hips, and spine, leading to chronic discomfort.
One area where orthotics shine is in correcting leg length discrepancies (LLD). Research shows that custom orthotics designed to correct the discrepancy can reduce low back pain over time. This underscores the importance of identifying structural imbalances and addressing them with targeted solutions.
Custom Orthotics for Posture Correction
Proper posture doesn’t just look good—it also protects your body from strain and injury. Custom orthotics for posture provide the foundational support needed to realign your body, especially for people with flat feet or high arches.
Studies have found that custom arch supports are more effective than off-the-shelf alternatives in improving posture and relieving pain associated with plantar fasciitis. When paired with Short Foot Exercises (SFEs), patients saw noticeable improvement in foot posture within five weeks. This combination strengthens the small muscles in the foot, creating a stable base for the rest of the body.
Benefits of Orthotics in Everyday Life
The benefits of orthotics go beyond relieving pain—they can also enhance your balance, stability, and gait. For individuals recovering from a stroke or dealing with nerve damage, orthotics improve push-off strength and walking mechanics. For those with chronic ankle instability, elastic orthoses and textured insoles improve postural stability and reduce the risk of future injury.
Other commonly reported benefits include:
- Better support during daily activities
- Reduced fatigue in the legs and lower back
- Enhanced sports performance
- Prevention of injury from improper foot mechanics
It’s important to remember that orthotics should not be viewed as a one-size-fits-all solution. The right design depends on your specific needs and the underlying cause of your discomfort.
Orthotic Insoles for Posture Correction: What to Expect
If you’ve been told you have poor posture, slouched shoulders, or a forward-tilting pelvis, orthotic insoles for posture correction might help realign your body. These devices subtly shift your weight distribution and foot positioning, encouraging a more upright stance.
At Turramurra Physiotherapy, we take detailed measurements and gait assessments to design orthotics that match your foot structure and movement patterns. We also integrate corrective exercises to maximize their impact. This approach ensures that your muscles learn to support your body correctly while the orthotic handles structural misalignments.
Are All Orthotics the Same?
Not at all. A common misconception is that all orthotics offer the same results. In reality, custom orthotics consistently outperform prefabricated ones for complex issues like LLD, plantar fasciitis, and nerve-related gait abnormalities. Prefabricated devices can offer temporary relief, but they often fall short in delivering long-term structural changes.
Additionally, research has shown that some dynamic designs—such as ankle-foot orthoses with oil dampers—may actually worsen spasticity if used long-term. This highlights the need for careful follow-up and reevaluation.
Conclusion: Choose a Personalized Approach
Orthotics for pain relief are most effective when paired with physiotherapy and personalized care. At Turramurra Physiotherapy, we emphasize a comprehensive approach that includes:
- Expert assessment and gait analysis
- Custom orthotic design
- Integration with posture-correcting exercises
- Ongoing adjustments and follow-ups
Don’t settle for generic solutions. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, postural issues, or recovering from an injury, our team can help you walk more comfortably and live pain-free.
Call us today or book an appointment online to find out if custom orthotics are right for you.
