Orthotics Centennial, CO
- Arch and Gait Support
- Foot to Spine Alignment
- Motion Restored First
A common topic in the clinic is custom orthotics that people want as alternatives, especially if they’ve tried over-the-counter inserts that don’t work. They may realize that the pain returned after only a few weeks, and they may wonder whether they need another treatment for the pain that they feel when walking.
In the clinic at Axis Health and Wellness, Dr. Tony Nicholas may not provide custom orthotics, but he looks at how the ankle joints move as one tries to walk. He has treated gait problems in Centennial since 1997, and he starts by getting a thorough examination for his patients and see what’s causing the problem in the first place. Afterwards, he designs a specific treatment plan that may include orthotics if this is what his patients need.
What Orthotics Can Do for Foot Pain?
Orthotics are medical devices like braces that support the function of the neuromuscular systems. They guide the feet into a neutral position to reduce strain on the joints that may be caused by injuries. Many absorbs shock to improve stability during walking, and they take the pressure off sensitive areas.
However, know that joint movement can’t be restored by orthotics, especially if the foot feels stiff. If the subtalar joint is not moving properly, putting support under the foot doesn’t immediately repair the underlying problem. Instead, the weight of the body is handled by the knee, the hip or the low back.
What Gets Checked Before an Insert Is Considered?
- 1 Gait and stance. How the foot behaves tells the doctor if the arch is still in good condition and what its current shape is.
- 2 Joint-by-joint motion testing. Each joint in the foot is moved separately to find the ones that have issues.
- 3 The chain above the foot. The pelvis gets tested as well to see if this is the source of pain in the ankle.
What Usually Helps the Foot More
- Chiropractic adjustments can help restore movement in restricted joints of the foot with the proper techniques.
- SoftWave therapy uses audio waves to address stubborn pain by encouraging more blood flow in a particular body part.
- Posture and gait correction can help correct the walking pattern that keeps pressure on the arch of the foot.
- Targeted hip strengthening can be done at home between visits.
An ankle pain can be addressed by chiropractic treatment to prevent frequent tripping. It’s important to consult with a doctor to see more options on how patients can alleviate their discomfort. After the treatment, if there’s still arch pain it can be because of .plantar fasciitis that can also be fixed by a specialist.
Orthotics FAQs
Does Axis Health and Wellness make custom orthotics?
No. Custom orthotics are not fitted or dispensed here. The exam looks at joint motion and gait first, and anyone who still needs a device afterward is referred to a podiatrist.
Will a store-bought insert make things worse?
Usually not, and some people do well with one. It becomes a problem only when it is worn for years in place of finding out why the arch is failing in the first place.
Can flat feet cause low back pain?
They can contribute. A foot that collapses changes the way force travels up the leg, which is why the hips and low back are examined in the same visit.
Find Out Whether the Foot Is Really the Problem
A short exam can tell whether the arch needs support or whether a restricted joint is doing the damage. Same-week appointments are usually available at the Centennial office, and ongoing wellness care is available once the problem settles.