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Pedorthists: Your Secret to Pain-Free Steps and a Better Fit
So many people deal with chronic foot pain or discomfort because of their shoes. Many don’t give their shoes consideration — until it becomes a serious problem. If you’re like most people, you’re probably here because you’re realizing that foot pain isn’t normal—there are solutions out there that lead to pain-free steps and a better-fitting shoe. That solution might just be a pedorthist.
“What is a pedorthist?” you might ask. With two certified pedorthists on our team and years of experience in the shoe business, our team at Peterson Shoes is here to explain it all. All of our sales people are trained by our certified pedorthists and can answer most questions. Intensive knowledge is required to practice as a Pedorthist. This includes knowledge of the anatomy of the lower limb and foot, biomechanics, gait analysis, pathologies of the foot and ankle, design and production of foot orthotics, shoe construction and modifications (Academy of Pedorthic Science).
What Does a Certified Pedorthist Do?
A certified pedorthist is a footwear and orthotic specialist whose goal is to alleviate foot pain and improve mobility. Sometimes that can mean helping someone find a properly fitting shoe, other times they may recommend orthotics, or another solution. They are well-versed in identifying the right shoe or solution for each individual’s needs to enhance their everyday function and comfort.
Podiatrist vs. Pedorthist: What’s the Difference?
The biggest difference between a podiatrist and a pedorthist is that the former is a medical doctor while the latter is a certified practitioner. While a podiatrist can perform surgeries and offer comprehensive solutions to diagnose and treat issues, a pedorthist is more limited to addressing biomechanical issues and using external solutions to improve mobility and comfort.
If your problems are more internal, a podiatrist might be your best bet, while a pedorthist is great for non-invasive solutions. Oftentimes, you might work with both professionals to get to the crux of your foot pain and provide the best solution.
How Does a Pedorthist Alleviate Foot Pain?
A pedorthist is specially trained to assess your foot shape, gait, pressure points, and other specifics unique to you. Using their observations and assessment, they provide recommendations for shoes, arch support, and more to achieve your most comfortable fit. As a result, they can alleviate chronic foot problems, pain associated with various ailments (plantar fasciitis, arthritis, bunions, flat feet, etc.), and give you the cushioning and support you need.
Read more: How to Find the Perfect Shoe: Unlocking the Biometrics of Feet
Using a Pedorthist for Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition that results in a stabbing or burning feeling on your heel. Most common in middle-aged adults and older, it’s frequently found in individuals who are/were overweight, runners, living sedentary lifestyles, or those who stand for long periods of time.
A certified pedorthist is a particularly useful professional to help people achieve long-term relief from the ailment. Using better-fitting shoes, proper arch supports, more cushioning, and other custom-fit solutions, long-term solutions can be achieved. According to NCBI, studies show that orthotics provide short-term pain relief and improved foot function. Since orthotics are commonly used by pedorthists to alleviate foot pain, this low-cost alternative proved to be a great solution for individuals suffering from the ailment.
Read more: How to Relieve Plantar Fasciitis Symptoms
Advantages of Seeing a Pedorthist
Whether you’re currently experiencing foot pain from walking, are on a search for flat feet support, or need arch pain relief, seeing a pedorthist offers a quick, easy solution. Here are some advantages of seeing a pedorthist:
- Achieve long-term comfort with great-fitting shoes
- Find relief from chronic foot pain
- Get personalized solutions unique to your medical history and needs
- Provide relief associated with diabetes, arthritis, foot deformities and more
- Offer non-invasive solutions for foot pain and discomfort
- Prevent foot problems from happening in the future
Professional Foot Care Solutions for Your Ultimate Comfort
Utilizing a pedorthist in your search for better-fitting footwear can easily lead to pain-free steps and a better fit for your shoes. Oftentimes, this one switch can reduce pain and get the blissful footwear experience you deserve. Are you ready to find a great pedorthist with orthotic support? Stop in and chat with our certified pedorthists on staff.
Peterson Shoes is a family-owned shoe store and shoe repair shop serving the Andover, Anoka, Brooklyn Park, Coon Rapids and Minneapolis areas. We specialize in orthotic shoe inserts, shoes for plantar fasciitis and shoes for tendonitis. Come check out our selection of Women’s shoes, apparel and accessories, and Men’s shoes at 209 E Main Street, Anoka, MN. Or shop our selection online now.