What are orthotics?
Orthotics are custom made inserts that are worn inside your shoe to control abnormal foot function.
Orthotics solve a number of biomechanically related problems, for example, ankle and knee pain, pelvis, hip, spinal pain. This is achieved by preventing misalignment of the foot, which significantly alters the way in which the bones move within their joints.
Orthotics work for the feet the same way prescription glasses work for the eyes.
Who can benefit from orthotics?
Custom orthotics can be used for all ages and for a variety of activities and can be made to fit any type of shoe.
Where can I get the best custom orthotics?
The best custom orthotics can be purchased from a clinic where a chiropodist or qualified health professional conducts an assessment and a 3D scan of your feet to determine the best orthotics for you. The 3D Scan is then sent to a lab where the scan is used to manufacture your orthotics.
Triangle Physiotherapy has qualified health practitioners that can assess you and recommend the best custom orthotics for you.
How can Orthotics correct foot conditions?
The best custom orthotics can:
- Help balance pressure placed on the feet by redistributing the weight appropriately
- Help stabilize the heel
- Support the arch of the feet
- Provide cushioning to delicate and inflamed areas of the feet that arise from too much walking, jogging, running, etc.
What is a knee brace and how can it help me?
A knee brace can help support and stabilize an unstable knee due to injury or osteoarthritis. The best knee brace will offer the support you need in order to balance and evenly distribute your weight in order to have a more comfortable walk or run.
What conditions can a knee brace help with?
Whether it’s a knee sprain, arthritis, torn ACL, runner’s knee, knee instabilities or knee discomfort, the best knee braces help support and manage pain.
When should I start wearing a knee brace?
Once you start experiencing knee pain or discomfort or find that the knee is unstable while walking or running or after you have had knee surgery , book an appointment with one of our health practitioners who can assess you and recommend the best knee brace for you.
What is a Custom Molded Splint?
It is a hand-made brace which is usually made from a thermoplastic material and requires the skill of a therapist to measure, trace, and adjust in order to accurately fit their patient’s hand. Custom splinting is used to either immobilize or mobilize structures to promote healing or function.
How is a Custom Molded Splint made?
While the procedure itself is fairly straightforward, the making of the splint takes a lot of expertise and practice. A hard sheet of thermoplastic material is used to create a pattern that is perfectly molded to the patients’ hand. This template is then heated to over 160° in order to allow the temperature-sensitive material to become flexible. After it cools down, the material is placed and molded directly on the patient, providing a fit matching the curves and contours of the client’s hand. Splinting is a very effective way to facilitate a patient’s recovery for a variety of conditions.
Also read, Best Physiotherapy Clinic in Etobicoke
Custom Splints vs. Over-the-Counter Splints
Over-the-counter splints, which can be found at drugstores or online stores, are typically available in small, medium, and large sizes. They are not created to specifically match your hand and can be difficult to adjust. By investing in a custom splint that is made to fit your hand specifically, you will be more likely to use the splint and to achieve better clinical outcomes.
Benefits of Custom Molded Splints
A common group of diagnoses for which splinting is indicated includes: tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, trigger finger, carpal tunnel syndrome, and many others. These types of conditions are caused by overuse of muscles that cross a specific joint or by compression caused by the joint itself. Wearing a splint prevents movement of the relevant joint which allows affected structures to rest, and along with a therapy program, can resolve symptoms. Splints that are specifically tailored to a patient’s functional limitations can make a difference in a person’s life by relieving pain, stabilizing joints, and protecting vulnerable tissues. This, in turn, promotes physical well-being.
Aslo read, Best Physiotherapy Clinic in Mississuaga
Additional benefits from splinting can be found in those with degenerative arthritis. Osteoarthritis often first manifests at the joint located at the base of the thumb, also known as the carpometacarpal (CMC) joint. The CMC is used excessively in our daily lives, especially for those that have occupations that require the forceful use of the thumb (like hand therapists). This joint can break down over time, leading to joint instability and pain. A custom splint provides the external support the thumb needs to compensate for the internal support the joint no longer provides. Patients often notice immediate pain relief with the use of a splint and, with accompanying education from the therapist, become more functional with daily activities.
Though splinting can be highly effective for a wide variety of conditions, it is only a supplement to treatment. Long-term splint usage is rarely indicated and should be discontinued based on healing and symptoms. Splint wear without a therapy program can lead to joint stiffness, weakness, and other problems. Splinting can prevent further injury, but does not repair the body. Splinting and a comprehensive therapy program work hand-in-glove to resolve the underlying pathology while preventing further structural damage. The art of Custom Splinting has changed drastically over the past several years. With advanced qualities of the thermoplastic material and splinting accessories, along with increased knowledge of biomechanics and theory, wrist and hand splinting has become an effective and important part of therapeutic treatment for upper extremity disorders.
Summer is here, and with the sun on one’s face and a cool breeze, everyone feels like going out and enjoying some fresh air. Be it a early morning run or a quick swim, a game of tennis with your buddies or you just dribbling the ball all by yourself at the basketball court; this is the season where even the lazy one’s find some energy to be active. Kids in particular love to go out and play in the summers. But with an active lifestyle, or an energetic kid, there is always the chance of sports related injuries or feet fatigue.
Maybe you twisted your ankle while playing tennis? Or your kid got hurt while playing football? Maybe too much running is affecting your feet? Or your friend is having pain in his or her legs post cycling?
Also read, Physiotherapy Clinic in Etobicoke
Orthotics might just be the answer to your woes!
The type of Orthotics recommended to you will depend on not just your ailment or injury, but the shape of your feet as well. A physiotherapist can tell you what kind of orthotics you need, by evaluating your injury and the shape of your feet.
The most popular kind of Orthotics include –
- Casual Orthotics – These are inserts or pads that can be worn with regular shoes.
- Custom Orthotics – these are inserts that are specially designed, keeping the shape of your feet and your particular needs in mind.
- Sports Orthotics – these are inserts or pads that help to absorb shock while doing high impact activities. Be it running, jogging, cycling or playing a sport. There are even specialized Orthotics that slip easily into athletic shoes for professional athletes.
- Dress Orthotics – These are inserts that can be put into heels and other fashionable shoes, and are particularly made for women.
- Accommodative Footwear – this refers to special footwear, which can accommodate the Orthotics.
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If you don’t have a sports injury, but are just very active, orthotics can still come to your aid. But do seek your doctor’s advice before using any kind of orthotics.
At Triangle Physiotherapy our health professionals cater to your needs and specifications. With the help of our professionals, you can figure out what is the best solution for you, based on your activities and the needs of your feet. So visit any of our locations in Etobicoke, Oakville, North York, Mississauga & Toronto to stay active with Orthotics!
Wearing heels maybe a fashion statement for some, but for others it is a work necessity.
Studies have shown that
- 72% women wear high heels at some point or the other
- 50% of them wear them at parties
- 39% of them wear them everyday
- And 31% of them wear them to work
But wearing heels for a prolonged period of time can lead to multiple issues. So what are the “heel issues” that affect most women? And how can you deal with them?
Also read, Physiotherapy Mississauga
Do your toes hurt and your feet feel numb? You might have Morton’s Neuroma, commonly known as forefoot pain. People with this ailment most often complain of pain between the 3rd and the 4th toe. Pain between the 2nd and the 3rd toe is less common, but also known to happen. This ailment occurs when the nerves between the toes get irritated and inflamed.
Another common issue with wearing high heels is back pain. Constantly wearing very high heels puts stress on the thighs and hip flexors, which in turn puts more pressure on the spine and causes it to curve. The curving of the spine then leads to back pain.
Pain in the knee joints is also an issue that occurs if you wear high heels too often. High heels put too much pressure on knee joints and can create an imbalance in your leg alignment, leading to pain and other issues of the knee joint.
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Ditching the heels completely will obviously be the best solution. But if you can’t do that, here are some things that you can do –
- Wear heels that are 2 inches or less in height, this will help take off the pressure from your spine and cause less curving.
- If you absolutely must wear very high heels (4 to 6 inches high) one day, wear low to moderate heels the next day. This way your knee joints, spine and thigh muscles will get a break from undue stress.
- If you have forefoot pain, try wearing shoes that are wider around the toes – a shoe with a round or square shape in front is a better choice than a pointy-toed shoe.
- Opt for shoes that have leather insoles so your feet have better grip. Slippery heels cause even more damage to your posture.
- Wear heels for shorter periods of time. The longer you wear high heels, the more damage you cause to your knees and spine.
- Ditch those heels if you are in too much pain. It is better to sit at your desk without your heels on, rather than cringe with pain for the entire day.
- And finally, visit a physiotherapist and do some simple exercises that he or she may suggest to relieve you of your feet, back or knee pain caused by high heels.
At Triangle Physiotherapy our professionals can help you figure out what will be the ideal solution for your ailment. So visit any of our 5 locations of Triangle Physiotherapy clinics – Etobicoke, Oakville, Mississauga, North York, Toronto to heal the issues caused by them heels!
What are orthotics?
Orthotics are custom made inserts that are worn inside your shoe to control abnormal foot function.
Orthotics solve a number of biomechanically related problems, for example, ankle and knee pain, pelvis, hip, spinal pain. This is achieved by preventing misalignment of the foot, which significantly alters the way in which the bones move within their joints.
Also read, Physiotherapy Rehab Clinic in Mississauga
How are custom orthotics made?
The process starts with the chiropodist, chiropractor or physiotherapist conducting a Biomechanical Gait analysis on a tablet that records your gait pattern & explaining the results to you. The chiropodist, chiropractor or physiotherapist may also take a 3D cast of your feet in a foam box.
The orthotics are then custom-manufactured in the lab based on your foot impressions & scan.
Once the orthotics are made & delivered to the clinic, the chiropodist, chiropractor or physiotherapist will have you come in for a fitting & explain to you the wear & care of the orthotics.
Also read, Physiotherapy Clinic in Etobicoke
Why choose Triangle Physiotherapy for your custom orthotics?
- State of the art technology
- Experienced chiropodists, chiropractors or physiotherapists trained in Biomechanical Assessments & Orthotic Prescription
- Lifetime warranty on the orthotics*
- Assistance with sending your claims in to your insurance.
Pacifying the Pain – All about Patella Tendon Tears
Despite it being named a “Tendon”, the patella tendon is both a ligament and a tendon. It connects to two different bones, the patella and the tibia. The patella tendon works in unison with the quadricepmuscles and quadricep tendons allowing them to straighten the knee. The tear within the patella tendon is either partial or complete and can be a disabling injury:
- Partial tear- More frayed and not complete, (think of a rope that is not completely torn)
- Complete Tear- The tissue is torn into two complete pieces
There are numerous causes that can contribute to the tear of a patella tendon:
- Falls
- Jumping
- Patellar tendonitis- inflammation of the patellar tendon thus weakening the tendon, causing small tears.
- Chronic disease – Chronic renal failure, rheumatoid arthritis, Diabetes mellitus & metabolic disease, etc.
- Infection
- Surgery
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Most patients have stated that they had felt a popping or tearing sensation when the patella tendon has torn. Additional symptoms recorded were:
- Indentation at the spot where the patella tendon is located
- Bruising
- Tenderness
- Cramping
- Shift of the kneecap to thigh, due to un-attachment
- Difficulty walking due to weakness in the knee
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Once the initial pain and swelling has subsided, physiotherapy treatments can be started. Physiotherapy can restore strength and range of motion. Depending on the intensity of the injury, a brace may need to be worn. While the brace is worn, straight leg exercises are often prescribed to strengthen the quadriceps muscles. As the patellar tendon heals, eventually the brace may be removed, allowing the patient to move freely with a greater range of motion, with more exercises being put into use as healing progresses.
Recovery from patellar tendon tears is possible, and most individuals are able to return to work and regular activities. Even though patients may feel stiffness in the region after recovery, most regain nearly equal motion compared to the uninjured leg. At Triangle Physiotherapy, we are able to dispense custom-fit braces to aid in the recovery of patellar tendon tears. For more information visit our custom braces page at: https://www.trianglephysiotherapy.com/services/custom-bracing
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis is a repetitive strain injury to the plantar surface of the foot. Tiny micro tears can develop in the ligament with repetitive use.
This condition is most common in middle-aged populations however you can develop it at any age. It occurs in people who are on their feet a lot such as athletes and construction workers. You can develop plantar fasciitis in one or both feet.
What is the Plantar Fascia?
The plantar fascia is a flat band of tissue that connects your heel bone (Calcaneus) to the base of the toes (Metatarsophalangeal joints). This ligament assists in supporting the arch of your foot.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Most people experience pain during the first few steps after they get out of bed in the morning. It can also cause irritation, inflammation, weakness and swelling to the bottom of the heel and foot. Symptoms may decrease throughout the day with increased activity but it typically worsens after prolonged sitting, standing, walking or at the end of the day.
Factors that predispose you to developing Plantar Fasciitis
There are many factors that can contribute toplantar fasciitis. The most common causes of plantar fasciitis are biomechanical imbalances within the body. This includes tight or weakened muscular structures, leg length discrepancies and excessive flat feet (pronation) or very high arches (supination) of the foot. It often develops with overtraining and repetitive overuse of the foot and ankle. More specifically, plantar fasciitis develops with training or working on unyielding surfaces such as concrete and occupation related footwear such as steel-toed boots.It can also occur with prolonged standing and weight bearing activities such as walking or running. As we age, tissue degeneration occurs weakening the supporting structures of the arch of the foot. In addition, during pregnancy hormonal changes can cause weakening of ligaments such as the plantar fascia. Excessive weight gain also compromises the integrity of this ligament. It can also occur from wearing worn down or unsupportive footwear.
Treatment Options Available for Plantar Fasciitis
If this sounds familiar, contact your physiotherapist to set up an initial assessment. Physiotherapists offer a wide variety of treatment options to help decrease the paina ssociated with plantar fasciitis. Your physiotherapist will create an individualized treatment plan for you consisting of soft tissue techniques, manual therapy joint mobilizations, modalities and a targeted exercise program involving stretching and strengthening the muscles of the foot and ankle. They can also provide you with education regarding proper gait mechanics, running technique, orthotics and splinting options for day and night use.
Written by: Natalie Langstaff, Physiotherapy Resident
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