Orthotics for Abnormal Foot Mechanics
Pain in the feet is not normal. It is usually the result of an abnormal relationship or misalignment of the bones in the foot at the wrong times during the gait cycle, a problem called patho-mechanics. At Foot Centers of Maryland, our podiatrists use prescription orthotics to correct these mechanics and keep patients in Baltimore, Glen Burnie, Timonium, and Reisterstown, MD active and pain-free.
Request an AppointmentWhat Is Patho-Mechanics?
Every step you take involves a precise sequence of motion in the bones and joints of your feet. When that sequence is off, such as when the foot rolls in too much or stays rigid when it should flex, stress builds up in the joints, soft tissues, and skin. Over time, patho-mechanics can lead to bunions, hammertoes, heel pain, corns, calluses, or simply tired, aching feet.
Signs Your Foot Mechanics May Be Off
- Shoes that wear out unevenly on the inside or outside of the heel
- Recurring heel, arch, or ball-of-foot pain
- Corns and calluses that keep coming back
- Bunions or hammertoes that are getting worse
- Feet, knees, or legs that feel tired after standing or walking
How Orthotics Restore Normal Function
Orthotics realign the bony abnormalities in the foot and restore normal function. The added benefits are a reduction in pain and slower progression of structural deformities. A custom orthotic is a biomechanical device made from a cast or mold of your foot, so it can modify structural deficiencies and the damaging compensations your body makes when your feet are not working correctly.
Molded and Fitted in Our Offices
Your orthotics are molded right in our facilities, and the fitting takes less than 30 minutes. There are many styles of orthotics, which can be customized for sports shoes, dress shoes, or diabetic footwear. The goal of orthotic treatment is to keep you active while balancing the foot to stabilize your gait cycle.
Part of a Complete Treatment Plan
Orthotics often work best alongside other care, such as stretching, supportive shoes, or treatment for specific conditions like plantar fasciitis and flat feet. Learn more about our custom orthotics evaluation and fitting process.
Orthotics FAQs
What does patho-mechanics mean?
Patho-mechanics refers to abnormal movement or alignment of the bones in your feet during walking, which places extra stress on joints and tissues and can lead to pain and deformities.
How do orthotics help foot pain?
Orthotics realign the foot and restore normal function during walking, which reduces stress on painful areas and can slow the progression of deformities.
What does uneven shoe wear mean?
Shoes that wear out on the inside or outside of the heel are a good indication that your foot mechanics are off and orthotics may help.
How long does an orthotic fitting take?
Orthotics are molded in our facilities, and the fitting takes less than 30 minutes.
Can orthotics prevent bunions and hammertoes from getting worse?
Orthotics can help slow the progression of structural deformities by improving foot function.
Are there orthotics for dress shoes?
Yes. Orthotics can be customized for sports shoes, dress shoes, and diabetic footwear.
Will orthotics help my knee or back pain?
Because foot mechanics affect the whole body, correcting them with orthotics may also reduce strain on the knees, hips, and lower back.
Correct Your Foot Mechanics with Orthotics
Find out if orthotics can stop your foot pain at its source. Call (410) 844-4700 - Overlea Office , (410) 844-4700 - Mercy Office , (410) 844-4700 - Reisterstown Office , (410) 844-4700 - Glen Burnie Office or (410) 844-4700 - Lutherville Office or request an appointment at our Overlea, Mercy, Glen Burnie, Lutherville, or Reisterstown office.