Are there any alternatives to foot orthotics?

Foot orthotics are regularly used to take care of a variety of foot disorders. The scientific evidence is they usually are successful and they also work most of the time to help individuals with a variety of different foot disorders. Despite that success there are lots of people and health professionals that do not recommend them, sometimes looking at them as crutches and to be avoided as people can become dependant on their use. Because of this they advocate against using foot orthotics and suggest options. There are numerous of solutions that could be tried if an educated decision is made by each person in regards to what is best for them. One option is muscle strengthening. The muscles that support the mid-foot (arch) of the foot can be strengthened and reconditioned to support the arch. The only problem with this approach would it be isn't something which will probably take place in the short term and it is much more of a long term solution. This is usually a challenge if there is a lot of pain present and a short term solution is necessary.

Another option is to use flip flops which have the arch support included in them. There are multiple brands in the marketplace with the Archies Arch Support Thongs being among the most well known. These are described as “thongs” as that's what they name flip flops in Australia which is where these are sold. You can find many jokes about that vocabulary difference. The Archie thongs features a 2.2 centimetre arch built into them that is very much like what you can get in the majority of pre-made foot supports. They are proving to be well liked with podiatrists in Australia with many podiatry clinics selling them. This is an alternative that is in line with people who choose to use that type of footwear as a lifestyle option as foot orthotics can restrict the range of shoes which they can use.

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