Wednesday, October 7, 2015

In Regard To Over The Counter Orthotics

By Della Monroe


In the modern world, it is not a must to visit a hospital for medical supplies. You can easily get orthotics, flu shots, wart removal and eye glasses from any drug store. Many pharmacies have opened up orthotic kiosks in many parts of the country. These facilities are convenient but still doctors and physiotherapies raise concerns because of over the counter orthotics.

According to research, many knee pain cases can be easily relieved by purchasing orthotics being sold in kiosks. The common ones are placed into shoes. They are shaped just like a normal shoe to alleviate arch problems and provide extra support. They are mainly sold to those with pain on feet as a result of wearing shoes which are not comfortable, flat feet or suffering from strains.

The issue with self-prescription is that the real issue will not be dealt with. Many people tend to focus on relieving the pain but not the underlying cause. Also, physical therapists report that these orthopedic supplies will worsen the problems most of the time because of wrong usage. Things like core weakness and improper hip muscle flexibility cannot be solved fully by such things. The foot pain is just one symptom amongst many in this kind of conditions.

Orthopedic supplies from the drugstore may contain the pain for some period but this will just be masking the bigger issue. Visiting the doctor for screening of muscles is recommended. Imbalances can be easily picked out this way or any other matter which may be causing the pain. Also, the physiotherapist can tell whether there is need for supportive shoes or stretching exercises.

In the event that the doctor decides that you need orthotics, you can either get custom-made ones or cheaper ones. The second option is available in many drugstores. The difference between this two is the pricing. The custom made orthopedic equipment is very expensive compared to the regular ones. However, even the regular one does a good job. Do not strain your financial capability to get the custom ones if you cannot afford them.

Medical insurance policy can cover for orthotic expenses but refund will be made if you purchased a personalized one. You rarely get reimbursement after purchase of a regular one. The material used to make this kind of equipment is superior and the customers decide how it should be made. Also, the exact print of your limb will be taken. In addition, they outlive the regular ones by far.

However, if you just have to get orthotic without a prescription, go for the ones made of hard plastic or plastic polymers. They should be stronger than the insole of normal shoes. If they are soft, they will become flat immediately you put on. This way, they will not be serving the purpose which is providing support to your leg. You can as well as put the shoe alone.

Another alternative is using a blend of the two kinds of orthotic. The problem with this kind is that the effectiveness will depend on the molding process. A true custom shoe insert takes the shape of your foot into consideration.




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