Sports injuries can significantly affect your performance, whether you’re a professional athlete or someone who enjoys an active lifestyle. Recovery can be slow, and finding the right support for your body is essential. One effective but often overlooked solution is using orthotics. For athletes in Oshawa, custom orthotics can make a world of difference, not only in managing injuries but also in preventing future ones.
Orthotics in Oshawa can provide critical support for athletes who suffer from various sports injuries. These specially designed inserts help improve foot alignment and balance, which directly influences other parts of your body like your knees and hips. By addressing the root cause of pain, orthotics allow you to recover faster and avoid further complications from improper foot positioning.
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Massachusetts examined the effects of custom foot orthotics (CFOs) on 15 healthy female runners with normal foot motion (J1. Clin Biomech. 2006 Jul;21(6):623-30). Although each orthotic was individually crafted, the researchers aimed for consistency by correcting the position of the calcaneus (the heel bone) and adjusting all orthotics to five degrees of inversion while the runners stood.
The results indicated that using the orthotics significantly reduced calcaneal eversion (the inward rolling of the heel) compared to running in shoes without the custom orthotics. Specifically, there was an average reduction of about one degree in eversion, which is notable, especially since the participants did not exhibit overpronation in their foot mechanics.
For runners who do tend to overpronate, the functional impact of this reduction could be even greater. Additionally, the study revealed that the custom orthotics decreased the eversion velocity of the rear foot, which is significant because a slower eversion during the gait cycle can influence the extent of foot rolling. Ultimately, reducing the speed at which the foot rolls can also lower the risk of injuries (J1. Clin Biomech. 2006 Jul;21(6):623-30).
Athletes commonly experience injuries that impact their feet, knees, and legs. The good news is that orthotics can help manage many of these injuries. Below are some of the most common sports injuries orthotics can assist with.
1.Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot injuries, especially among runners and athletes who engage in high-impact activities. Approximately 25% of the population may experience some degree of flat feet, which can lead to pain and discomfort, especially during prolonged standing or walking. There are two main types of flatfoot: flexible flatfoot and rigid flatfoot.
Flexible flatfoot features an arch that appears when the foot is not bearing weight but collapses when weight is applied during activities like walking or running. This occurs during closed kinetic chain activities, while the arch is present in open kinetic chain activities like sitting or standing on tiptoes.
In contrast, rigid flatfoot has a completely flattened arch in both open and closed kinetic chain activities, indicating a more severe condition. Rigid flatfoot can result from various factors, including genetic predisposition, trauma, or diseases such as arthritis. (Bednarczyk et.al, 2024)
2. Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis commonly arises from excessive use or incorrect foot mechanics during exercise. This condition leads to inflammation of the Achilles tendon, linking the calf muscles to the heel. Utilizing orthotics can alleviate strain by providing support to the heel and ensuring proper foot alignment, thereby minimising stress on the tendon..
3. Shin Splints
Shin splints develop when there is too much stress on the shinbone, often caused by repetitive running or jumping. This pain is particularly common in athletes who don’t wear the right footwear. Orthotics can provide cushioning to the arch, helping to absorb shock and prevent shin splints from worsening.
4. Stress Fractures
Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone that typically result from repetitive stress or excessive strain. Athletes involved in high-impact activities are particularly vulnerable to these types of injuries. Orthotics play a crucial role by redistributing pressure and absorbing shock, thereby reducing the risk of stress fractures.
5. Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
Runner’s knee is a condition where the cartilage under the kneecap becomes irritated due to improper alignment or overuse. This is especially common in athletes who run long distances. Orthotics improve foot positioning, which helps align the knee and reduce pain.
Orthotics do more than treat existing injuries; they also play a crucial role in preventing future injuries and enhancing athletic performance. When athletes have the right foot support, they are less likely to develop imbalances or strains that can lead to injury.
Custom orthotics promote better foot alignment, which reduces the strain on muscles and joints during athletic activities. With improved biomechanics, athletes can move more efficiently, leading to enhanced performance in their respective sports.
Additionally, by preventing injuries before they occur, orthotics allow athletes to maintain a consistent training regimen, which is essential for peak performance. Ultimately, the use of orthotics not only enhances recovery but also contributes to long-term athletic success.
Enhanced shock absorption is another vital benefit of using orthotics for injury prevention. During high-intensity sports activities, the feet endure substantial impact forces, which can lead to injuries like stress fractures or plantar fasciitis.
Orthotics help by providing additional cushioning that absorbs these shock forces, thereby minimizing the stress on the feet and legs. This reduction in impact can be particularly beneficial for athletes who engage in sports involving running or jumping, as it lessens the wear and tear on their bodies.
As a result, athletes who incorporate orthotics into their training can enjoy their activities without the constant threat of injury. This proactive approach to foot health ultimately leads to improved performance and longevity in sports.
Custom orthotics can also correct muscle imbalances that arise from improper foot mechanics. When the feet are not aligned correctly, certain muscles may overcompensate while others remain underutilized, leading to discomfort and increased injury risk.
By providing proper arch support and alignment, orthotics help ensure that all muscles in the foot and leg work together effectively. This balance reduces the strain on individual muscles and joints, allowing athletes to perform at their best without undue fatigue.
Furthermore, by correcting these imbalances, athletes can increase their strength and endurance, making them more competitive in their sport. Therefore, addressing muscle imbalances through the use of orthotics can lead to significant gains in performance and a reduced risk of injury.
While over-the-counter inserts are widely available, they often lack the personalization required to effectively treat sports injuries. Many athletes may opt for these generic solutions due to their convenience and lower cost.
However, these one-size-fits-all products are rarely tailored to the unique structural needs of an individual’s foot. Custom orthotics are crafted specifically based on a thorough assessment of your foot mechanics, taking into account any conditions such as flat feet or high arches.
This level of customization allows orthotics to provide superior support and correction compared to standard inserts. Consequently, athletes suffering from recurring injuries or chronic pain should consider investing in custom orthotics for a more effective solution.
Additionally, the materials used in custom orthotics can differ significantly from those found in over-the-counter products. Custom orthotics are typically made from high-quality, durable materials designed to withstand the demands of athletic activities.
These materials can provide better shock absorption, comfort, and support, all of which are essential for athletes engaging in high-impact sports. Conversely, over-the-counter inserts may be made from cheaper materials that degrade quickly and fail to offer the required support over time.
As a result, athletes using generic inserts may find themselves replacing them frequently, ultimately leading to greater expenses in the long run. Therefore, choosing custom orthotics not only ensures better foot health but also represents a wise investment in an athlete’s overall performance and well-being.
At PARC of Ontario, we understand the importance of keeping athletes in top shape. Our team provides custom orthotics in Oshawa designed to address sports injuries and improve performance.
Call us at (905) 579-9938 to book a consultation with us today. Get professional advice and find the perfect orthotics for your needs.
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