Conditions Supported by a Custom Orthotic:
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles Tendonitis is an inflammation of the tendon of the calf as it approaches the heel as shown in the illustration. It can be very debilitating and noticeably impair the gait cycle. A properly crafted custom orthotic will correct this pain.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome
The iliotibial band or tensor fascia latae as it is sometimes called is a thick extension of the gluteal muscles as they extend down the leg and cross the lateral part of the knee. Iliotibial Band Syndrome is an inflammatory reaction at the side of the knee where this tendon crosses.
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia is not an injury; it’s actually a symptom or a group of symptoms. These may include pain in the ball of the foot, with or without bruising, and inflammation. It is often localized in the metatarsal heads or it may be more isolated, in the area near the big toe. One of the hallmarks of this disorder is pain in the ball of the foot during weight-bearing activities. Sharp or shooting pains in the toes also may be present, and pain in the toes and/or ball of the foot may increase when the toes are flexed. Accompanying symptoms may include tingling or numbness in the toes.
Morton’s Neuroma
Morton’s Neuroma is a thickening of the tissue that surrounds the intermetatarsal nerve leading to the toes. When the nerve or toes become squeezed, compressed and irritated, it causes painful symptoms. Neuroma patients occasionally complain of a “pins and needles” sensation that spreads through their toes, or of a feeling similar to what one gets when they hit their “funny bone.”
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammatory condition that occurs where the plantar fascia attaches to the medial tuberosity of the calcaneus. The fascia is the thick grizzle like tissue that runs under the mid foot.
Runner’s Knee
Runner’s Knee is a general term referring to pain around the front of a runner’s knee. A simple solution is to slightly elevate the heel (called a rear foot post) in the custom orthotic.
Sacroiliac Syndrome
Sacroiliac syndrome is a painful inflammatory condition of the sacroiliac joints. The patient generally experiences pain in the buttock and thigh regions. It is typically aggravated by sitting for long periods.
Shin Splints
The condition known as Shin Splints involves a muscular over-use scenario. There are Anterior Shin Splints and Posterior Shin Splints. Anterior Shin Splints involve the Tibialis anterior muscle of the anterior compartment of the leg, and Posterior Shin Splints involve the Tibialis posterior muscle of the posterior compartment of the leg.