By Melissa J. Lockwood, DPM, Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates
I often get asked by patients (and the parents of my pediatric patients!) if there is anything that can help performance, especially in relation to how fast or “good” someone can run. I have a simple answer for them. It all comes down to the mechanics of how a person is walking, or, in this case, running.
When a person is an active runner, they engage different muscles than when walking. In fact, how their feet hit the ground is completely different than when they walk before and after the activity. The underlying mechanics of the person’s natural gait as well as their foot structure do shine through — no matter what they are doing.
That is where orthotics come in. These awesome devices will help correct your natural foot position into the “ideal foot” (hint: we podiatrists have never actually met the ideal foot!) and will also allow for your foot to function in a more mechanically correct way while both running and walking.
Correction of your foot mechanics can be compared to getting your brakes aligned on your car. If the alignment is out of whack, it won’t matter how fast you accelerate, you will continue to have your steering pull in the wrong direction — that can lead to brake problems and even suspension problems!
Orthotics fix that problem in your feet. By utilizing this technology, you will be able to run more efficiently and, in turn, more quickly as well.
Custom orthotics are made by using an impression of the patient’s foot in the neutral (“ideal foot”) position. These devices can fit into many shoes (especially running shoes!) and can have a variety of top covers to make them soft and comfortable to wear. Many insurance companies allow for these devices, and we also have several budget friendly options available to our patients who need to correct their gait!
If you are having problems “upping your game” while running, please contact Heartland Foot and Ankle Associates at 309-661-9975, or visit their website at www.HeartlandFootAndAnkle.com to schedule a consultation for orthotics today!