The Best Possible Treatment
Several factors are necessary in order to treat flat feet effectively with arch support or orthotics.
One: When treating adult patients with flat feet the treatment needs to start with very low angular correction so that the patient can tolerate the treatment process. Even very low corrections will generate some relief in symptoms. Every 5 degree increase in correction, once tollerated, will additionally decrease symptoms in the foot, knee and back.
Two: The treatment needs to be consistent in order to succeed. the value of the treatment is directly proportional to the amount of time that it is used during ALL weight bearing activities. If the device is only used part time the foot and body has great difficulty in adjusting to the changes that are created, and the treatment is less effective in eliminating pain and other symptoms.
Three: This treatment compensates for an angular misalignment in our anatomy. Life long use is reccommended.
When treatment of the flat foot follows a sequence of specific criteria that involve progressive , continuous, full time support of the long arch, the benefits out weigh any surgical benefits that I have observed in either my own patients or in the patients of other surgeons.
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