Boosting Performance: Custom Orthotics for Scarborough Runners

Running in Scarborough is a popular form of physical activity for numerous reasons. It appeals to many people since it does not require much to partake in this activity, and it allows you to run at any time that suits you. You can join fun runs, marathons, and athletic competitions. 

While running offers plenty of benefits, runners can also be at risk of foot pain. Every time your foot pushes off the ground, it causes the joints in the ball of the foot to overextend due to pressure. This is where custom orthotics become highly significant for Scarborough runners. 

Causes of Foot Pain in Runners

When running, your feet act as a shock absorber to reduce the impact of the foot the moment it hits the ground. That is why it is common for runners to experience foot injuries every year. 

Several factors can potentially put runners at risk of foot pain or develop problems after running. While some injuries can cause foot pain, improper running form or incorrect footwear can also contribute to the problem. 

Additionally, feet come in different sizes and shapes. Runners may experience different symptoms due to unique body types and running styles. Here are some of the most common foot-related conditions experienced by runners:

• Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis occurs when the tissues that connect your heel to your toes become inflamed. It can gradually develop over time, resulting in intense pain in the arch of your foot. Among the most common causes of plantar fasciitis include:

• Excessive force of stress while running
• Straining due to overextension or overuse
• Wearing shoes with poor support
• Arthritis
• Obesity

• Metatarsalgia

Metatarsalgia is a common form of overuse injury associated with pain and inflammation in the forefoot due to increased stress over the metatarsal region. It often occurs due to the following factors:

• Engaging in high-impact sports, like running
• Poor-fitting shoes
• Foot and toe shape
• Weak or stiff foot muscles

• Fat pad syndrome 

Runners with fat pad syndrome may experience pain around the middle of the heel only. This foot condition is often caused by overuse or strain from running. Other contributing factors include:

• Walking or running on hard surfaces
• Plantar fasciitis
• Improper gait
• Inflamed fat pad

• Runner’s Knee

Runner’s knee, also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, is caused by the continuous friction between the kneecap and the femur (thigh bone), leading to pain around the front of the knee. While structural defects and uneven gait are the most common causes of runner’s knee, other contributing factors include: 

• Poor foot support
• Over-pronation
• Overuse of excessive training
• Tight hamstrings
• Weak thigh muscles
• Injury

Understanding Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics are personalized shoe inserts designed to provide tailored support and alignment to meet the specifics of an individual’s foot structure and gait pattern. They go beyond just cushioning; custom orthotics help enhance your running performance and prevent injury. A study published in the World Journal of Orthopedics supports that orthotics prevent pain, improve comfort and running speed, and reduce the risk of running-related injuries. 

Among the many benefits that come with custom orthotics are:

• Better Alignment

Did you know that optimum body alignment starts with your feet? 

Alignment issues in your feet and ankles can significantly affect your balance. For instance, overpronation (when the arch of your foot rolls excessively inward or downward and your foot arch flattens) increases your risk of plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, and back, hip, and knee pain. Custom orthotics help address the problem of overpronation by keeping your ankles and feet aligned, preventing pain and discomfort when running. 

• Better Mechanics

Custom orthotics align your lower extremities by correcting your body’s mechanics. It helps your feet propel forward by allowing your legs to move faster and maximize efficiency. With proper support, your muscles can work more harmoniously, reducing strain and enhancing performance.

• Minimize Fatigue

Long-distance running can cause fatigue to set in. This can put added stress on the muscles and joints in your feet and legs. Fatigue often stems from the lack of stability in the ankles and imbalances in the feet. Custom orthotics help reduce fatigue and boost your athletic performance by maintaining the alignment of your feet and ankles throughout the entire running session. Stabilizing your feet helps strengthen the lower half of your body, boosting your power as you perform. 

• Provide Support

Custom orthotics are tailor-made to match your foot contours precisely. They offer excellent weight distribution and provide the optimal level of support needed during high-impact activity, such as running. Unlike generic shoe inserts, custom orthotics take into account your unique foot shape, arch height, and biomechanical needs, ensuring a personalized fit and enhanced comfort. 

• Reduce Pain

Foot pain during exercise frequently stems from subtle imbalances in the feet or the lower half of the body. Conditions, such as hammertoes, bunions, calluses, and corns can cause discomfort. Custom orthotics play a crucial role in correcting or alleviating these issues, effectively addressing the root cause of your pain. Custom orthotics provide tailored support and alignment, enabling you to run pain-free and enhancing your performance. 

• Prevent Injury

The risk of injury is inevitable in sports, but custom orthotics can help reduce and prevent potential injury by promoting proper alignment of your joints and supporting the mechanical integrity of your muscles, ligaments, and tendons. Additionally, proper training, warm-up routines, and paying attention to your body’s signals are essential factors in injury prevention. 

• Prevent Re-injury

As an athlete, you understand that injuries are an unavoidable aspect of sports, despite your meticulous efforts to prevent them. Even after healing from an injury and receiving clearance to resume activity, there’s always a risk of re-injury. 

Custom orthotics help absorb shock effectively and distribute your weight evenly, reducing the strain on vulnerable areas of your body. Additionally, they minimize the risk of overloading injured tissues and help prevent recurring injuries, allowing you to focus on your performance and goals without hesitation.

Make Every Step Count With Custom Orthotics in Scarborough

For Scarborough runners looking to take their performance to the next level, custom orthotics offer a tailored solution that goes beyond generic inserts. By addressing individual biomechanical needs and providing personalized support, custom orthotics ensure that every step is taken with confidence and comfort.

When it comes to custom orthotics in Scarborough, PARC of Ontario is here to help. Contact us at (647) 352-1100 to schedule your consultation and embark on a journey towards enhanced running performance and injury prevention. Discover the difference that custom orthotics can make in your running experience today!