Theta-Orthotics

800-558-4382

Do I need to wear my orthotics all of the time?

If the benefit of any foot control device is related to the changes it creates when we walk and stand, the value is directly related to how much it is used whenever the patient is up on his or her feet.

In fact, if a patient fails to use his or her orthotics during sufficient periods of weight-bearing activity, not only are benefits decreased, but the patient may never fully acclimate to the device..

I have many patients with severe conditions who can feel a return or increase in symptoms with only a few steps without their orthotics properly in place. We have all experienced situations where we were trying to teach a small child or animal a new task or trick. We know that the more consistent we are in teaching the task correctly, the more successfully the task will be learned.

Acclimating to any change in the way we walk and stand requires a certain degree of consistency in order to feel natural with the changes that are created.

Often, a patient tells me that his or her orthotics have significantly reduced the symptoms, but at night while at home, a portion of the symptoms return. This is confusing, as before orthotic use, the symptoms were most pronounced during the course of the work day and not when at home and “off of their feet”.

When I hear these comments, I have learned to ask if the patients wear the orthotics around the house when they get home from work. When I learn that they do not because they don’t think they are on their feet much at home, or because they do not wear shoes in their home, I suggest that they humor me and wear them until they go to bed as well as at work, and come back to the office in 2 weeks. Inevitably, the symptoms subside with full time use and the patient learns the importance of wearing the orthotics all of the time.

Orthotics compensate for the angular deformity present in their feet and legs. If they are not used consistently, a portion of the abnormal function, symptoms, and deformity will persist, and the patient may never fully acclimate to the changes that are created.

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Theta-Orthotics PO Box 1574 Riverton Ut. 84065