Orthotics

Here is a summary of what orthotics are about taken primarily from wikipedia.

Orthotics is is concerned with the design, development, fitting and manufacture of orthoses. These are fittings that support or correct musculoskeletal deformities and/or abnormalities of the human body.

The word orthotic is frequently used as an adjective (e.g. an orthotic insole) or equally as a noun (the orthotic) to describe or name a foot-supporting device or insole. It can also be used to describe a more complex device used to control joint motion.

The term “orthotic” is derived from the word "ortho", meaning to straighten. Sciences such as materials engineering, gait analysis, anatomy and physiology, and psychology contribute to the work done by orthotists, professionals engaged in the field of orthotics.

Those who benefit from a complex orthosis may have an orthopedic condition such as scoliosis or an injury like a fracture - or they may have sustained a physical impairment, or have a congenital abnormality such as spina bifida or cerebral palsy.

Differing orthoses may directly support the lower limb, upper extremity, or the spine. Orthotics proper involves devices made by technicians and fitted to the patient usually by a specialist in foot health such as pedorthist, orthotist, podiatrist, or chiropodist.

An orthotist, for example, is a professional who works by prescription from a physician to ensure the proper application of an orthosis to an individual who might benefit from the orthosis; this is essentially the practice of orthotics.

Care in the proper fit of any device that applies force to the body must be taken to ensure good results and to prevent unwanted problems from an orthosis that is too tight or otherwise uncomfortable.

Some nations require professionals engaged in orthotics (or those manufacturing and fitting orthoses) to be licensed or acredited.

There are of course simple orthotic inserts (in the form of insoles) that can be bought over the counter or online.

Buy an orthopedic product

With Christmas out of the way and the excesses of the season leaving many overweight, now is an ideal time to buy some kind of supportive product, be it a contouring bed or a pair of good orthopedic shoes to walk that extra weight off.

Now is also a good time to buy because the sales are on and it is possible to get some great deals on healthy lifestyle products like supportive mattresses, beds, chairs and shoes. These products always experience a lull over the Christmas period, so retailers are always keen to sell at this time and have lots of offers.
Another reason to think orthopedic

Putting on extra weight and getting older are two realities of life. One you can do something about directly, but the other is an inevitability of living. Even so, you can look after your body by making an effort to stay in shape and to keep your walking, sitting and sleeping postures as healthy as possible.

One way to do this is to buy ergonomic furniture that works with (and not against) your body and encourages a healthy alignment of bones and muscles.

Chairs that keep you in an upright yet comfortable posture are ideal and beds that use one of the more recent technological materials like visco elastic memory foam are also good. These beds are cheaper than ever at the moment and their benefits to good sleep and a refreshed start to the following morning are well documented. Check out the internet for the best deals.

Finally one way of getting into shape, encouraging good posture and getting some pleasure at the same time is by walking. Good walking or hiking shoes make walking easy on the feet and have ergonomic designs that support, cushion and assist the feet in the bending and weight bearing motions of walking. Now is a good time to buy.