With Foot Pain, Can Orthotics Get Rid Of My Neuropathy?

Can orthotics get rid of my neuropathy?


Many people suffer from neuropathy, or an impingement of nerves located in the back, hips and legs. Neuropathy is characterized by a tingling and prickly sensation in the lower extremities, which is most commonly seen in the legs and feet. The individual may also experience a burning sensation or a numbness in these areas as a result of the condition.

While many forms of treatment are available for this condition, some may consider the use of orthotics for relief. But is this a viable treatment option?

What is orthotics?

Orthotics is the field of medicine that uses devices to help straighten or align a body part. The main areas of the body where orthotics are utilized is the back and feet.

Orthotic devices are worn externally and are meant to correct an area that is not functioning properly, such as a back that has become twisted due to the effects of scoliosis. They are also used to rehabilitate an area after a cast has been removed to allow sufficient time for the area to return to its intended positioning and to allow it to strengthen and stabilize.

Can the use of orthotics relieve neuropathy?

Unfortunately, no. Since neuropathy deals with nerves which are being pinched or damaged, wearing a confining orthopedic device would only aggravate the condition that much more. Since neuropathy requires blood flow and nerve circuitry to be restored, you need to focus on allowing less restriction for the affected area, and not more.

What can be done

One of the best ways to treat neuropathy is to start with your shoes. Wearing shoes which do not fit properly or are too tight will exacerbate the symptoms of neuropathy. Shoes that do not provide adequate support for the feet can also be an issue.

When you wear shoes that are too tight or fail to provide enough of the right kinds of support for the ball and heel, nerves become impaired and neuropathy symptoms will increase in intensity. Switching out your shoes helps to allow blood and nerve flow to be restored back to normal.

Sitting for long periods of time or sitting in chairs which do not provide adequate support can also increase the severity of symptoms.