Shoes, Socks and Orthotics

view video | return to Patient Education

Socks may sound boring, but they are one of the most important pieces of exercise gear you can own. Be sure to choose socks with mid weight padding over the toes and under the ball and heel to protect the foot from shear and impact forces, which can lead to painful blisters. Don’t forget the top of the foot, as a little padding will go a long way in protecting against uncomfortable lace pressure. Socks containing a combination of acrylic and polyester, as well as stretch nylon and spandex around the arch will wick away sweat, keeping your feet cool and dry. This will also prevent bunching up around the arch for extended wear and comfort.

We all buy shoes and we all wear them. The truth is that nearly 1 out every 4 Americans requires a specialized shoe due to the physical structure of the foot. But how many of us really pay attention to the shoes we buy? Other than how they look. Your podiatrist can evaluate your current shoes for wear pattern which may suggest a biomechanical imbalance. Ultimately what you wear should depend on your foot type and training needs. Today, shoes have features which are designed for different foot types. Shoes for motion control are the most rigid, durable and control oriented shoes. They limit overpronation, are spacious for orthotics, or just want a stable shoe for you flat feet. Stability shoes have a blend of cushioning, support and durability, these shoes are not for feet that supinate or overpronate. Cushion shoes have the most cushioning, witht the least support. These are for footypes that underpronate, high arch, and do not need any extra support. Shoes adequate for a training program that is fast paced raced, choose a lightweight training shoe, as long as you don’t have motion control problems. If you run off road, in inclement weather, or need more traction, and more durability, a trail shoe would suit you best. Exercising in worn out shoes not intended for the sport can cause and contribute to injuries. When buying new shoes, shop late in the day because your feet swell during the day, and always measure your feet while standing and be sure to try on shoes with the socks you normally would wear. Allow a thumbnail’s width between the shoe and your big toe. And if your feet are different sizes, buy for the larger size. Lastly, consider an evaluation by a podiatrist to learn your foot type so your shoe is appropriate for you and your particular activity. And always remember that a shoe should be used only for approximately 3 months, they should be replaced if used daily.

During your evaluation, your podiatrist may suggest an orthotic device to help stabilize, protect your foot, and protect, prevent, or correct a biomechanical problem. This device will also aid in performance of certain functions. They are a large variety of orthotics available. Depending on your diagnosis and your individual needs, your custom orthoses are more expensive than off the shelf devices. In general they last much longer, and provide more support and correction. However, in some cases an over the counter device can be just as effective, particularly when combined with a stretching and exercising program.
For custom orthoses, your podiatrist, will create a mold of the foot from plaster, fiberglass sock or foam box. The “mold”, will be sent to an orthotic manufacturer with a prescription to make your custom foot orthotic. Once you have received your orthotic, you will be fitted into it. You should allow a break in period to enable your feet to properly adjust. Wear your orthotics, 1-2 hrs the first day. You may increase your wear time by an additional 1-2 hrs, until you are comfortable wearing your orthotics full time. This should take approximately 2 weeks. During the breaking period, you need to always wear socks and inspect your feet for new red marks, blisters or sores as soon as you remove your shoes. Red marks should disappear within 15 minutes. If this occurs, consult your podiatrist and discontinue the use of your orthotics.
Phone: (505) 883-6600 |info@angelafootdoctor.com