One of my Facebook fans, and patient, recently asked, “Any hints on how to quiet down the noise of orthotics when you walk?” This is a very common question. It can be very embarrassing entering a room when your shoes are going, “Squeek, Squeek!”
I always appreciate questions coming from my patients. I am especially happy this question was asked because the noise alone from orthotics can drive people to stop wearing them, which is counter-intuitive what the orthotics are trying to accomplish.
So before you yank out the orthotics in your shoes add a little talcum powder in your shoes and add a little paraffin to the front edge of the orthoses. This will reduce the friction that makes the orthotics squeak.
Ever wonder what the process of making orthotics is? It’s actually a very simple process for the patient. Podiatrists measure a patient’s foot, and then in-house, takes a cast mold of the foot or makes a digital image in order to obtain the patient’s arch and heel pattern. This ensures that the orthotic, once made, forms to the patient’s foot. The Podiatrist finalizes an orthotic using custom manufacturing and then it is ready for the patient. The great thing is that orthotics can last up to several years!
There are three different categories of orthotics:
- Rigid orthotics provide support and controls motion and is made out of plastic or carbon fiber. Rigid orthotics is used when a person has a strain, or aches and pains in the legs, thighs and lower back.
- Semi-Rigid orthotics guides the foot to function properly by allowing muscles and tendons to perform efficiently. Semi-Rigid is typically comprised of layers of soft material which are reinforced with more rigid materials. These orthotics are used when a person is having trouble with their balance while walking or playing sports.
- Soft orthotics absorbs shock, builds balance, and alleviates pressure. They are made of soft, compressible materials. People with diabetes and arthritis find relief with soft orthotics.
Global Healthcare Company. (2011). Image retrieved from http://www.globalhealthcare.co.in/talcum-powder.htm
Image by Antaean. Flickr. (2011). http://www.flickr.com/photos/8656572@N04/
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