Can Foot Orthotics Help Back Pain?

More than 4 million Australians suffer from back problems, ranging from acute injuries to chronic pain. Physiotherapists use a variety of treatments to help back pain patients including custom orthotics.

Read on to find out how custom foot orthotics could help to reduce your back pain.

Firstly, what is back pain?

Back problems can range in severity from dull and achy, to debilitating. Back pain can be caused by physical damage to the bones, joints, muscles, nerves and connective tissues in the back, or have an unknown source. In both cases, managing back pain is an ongoing and frustrating condition that often leaves sufferers desperate for answers.

One reason why the prevalence of back pain is growing across society is the rise of sedentary behaviour. Sitting and slouching all day can cause discomfort in the back. Over time, serial sitting can also lead to misalignment and problems with posture.

When the body’s biomechanics are out of balance, pain and strain are often the first symptoms. This muscle or ligament strain is a leading cause of lower back pain and can be treated with corrective treatments like orthotics.

How can custom orthotics help?

Orthotics align a person’s feet and ankles without invasive surgery. Custom orthotics provide relief to many back pain patients by correcting the way weight is distributed. This foundational change simultaneously supports your body and provides instant relief to the parts of your body that were compensating- including your back.

Custom orthotics are shaped to your unique body, providing a superior level of supported compared to over-the-counter solutions. When you use custom orthotics, you are optimizing the performance of your entire body, not just your feet or back. This small, yet powerful device can transform your active life by taking the pain out of movement.

Visit a physiotherapist if you have back pain

When you visit a physiotherapist for back pain, the main goals of your treatment are to reduce pain and increase functionality. Many treatments can reduce back pain, and orthotics are an important solution that provides instant, long-term relief and correction.

Back pain is not a normal part of ageing or lifestyle. Treatments are accessible and effective and can help you to dramatically improve your quality of life.

At Northern Districts Physiotherapy & Sports Clinic, we offer custom orthotic solutions to our patients in the West Ryde area. Book an appointment today to discuss your back pain with an experienced physiotherapist and learn if orthotics are right for you.