Orthotics to manage low back pain

What is low back pain?

Low back pain refers to discomfort or pain in the region of the lower portion of the spine. Low back pain that responds well to custom orthotics is often worse at the of the work day.

What are custom orthotics?

Custom orthotics are specially crafted shoe inserts designed to address specific foot issues and improve overall biomechanics. While the primary focus of orthotics is often on the feet, they can have indirect benefits for other parts of the body, including the lower back.

How Custom Orthotics Help

Alignment: Custom orthotics are made to provide proper alignment and support for the feet. Since the feet are the foundation of the body's kinetic chain, correcting foot alignment can positively impact the alignment of the ankles, knees, hips, and ultimately the spine. This improved alignment may help alleviate stress on the lower back.

Shock Absorption: Orthotics can provide additional shock absorption and cushioning, reducing the impact of each step on the lower body. This can be beneficial for individuals with conditions like degenerative disc disease or herniated discs, where minimizing impact can help manage pain.

Muscle Activation: Proper foot support can help activate and stabilize the muscles in the feet, ankles, and legs. When these muscles work efficiently, they contribute to better overall posture and reduced strain on the lower back muscles.

Compensation Reduction: Individuals with bio-mechanical issues in the feet may unknowingly compensate for these issues by altering their gait and posture. Over time, such compensations can contribute to low back pain. Custom orthotics can address these underlying foot problems, potentially reducing the need for compensatory movements.

Improving Gait: A proper gait (walking pattern) is crucial for overall musculoskeletal health. Custom orthotics can assist in optimizing gait mechanics, ensuring that the feet and legs move in a bio-mechanically efficient manner. This can have positive effects on the lower back by reducing stress on the spine.

The effectiveness of orthotics may vary from person to person and they should be prescribed and fitted by a qualified healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist or one of our chiropractors .