One of the most common reasons people call out of work is because of lower back pain. 8 in 10 Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives.
One way to reduce back pain actually starts by making corrections with our feet and what we walk on. Foot Levelers kiosks are designed to analyze a person’s feet to provide recommendations for orthotics. A study from the National University of Health Sciences showed that custom orthotics can help to significantly reduce back pain. When combined with chiropractic care, some patients reported feeling up to 40% less back pain.
Do Foot Levelers Really Work?
Typically found in chiropractic clinics and wellness offices, Foot Levelers kiosks use advanced 3D scanning technology to assess arch height, balance, and pressure distribution while you stand. After the scan, the kiosk generates a personalized recommendation for orthotic inserts designed to address any imbalances and support proper foot alignment.
The accuracy of this technology has been shown to help identify underlying issues related to foot structure, which can lead to improved posture and reduced back pain. However, their effectiveness depends on the root cause of the discomfort. For example, someone suffering from arthritis or a herniated disc may not experience significant relief from orthotics alone.
Can Foot Leveler Orthotics Help?
Custom orthotics from Foot Levelers aim to correct structural imbalances and provide targeted arch support for each foot. By improving how your weight is distributed and restoring stability from the ground up, they can help reduce strain on joints and muscles, especially in the lower back.
People who spend long hours standing, athletes, and those with flat feet often report noticeable improvements when using these orthotics. Chiropractors frequently include them as part of a broader treatment plan that may involve physical therapy, stretching, and strengthening exercises.
Do Orthotics Help Back Pain?
While there’s growing evidence that orthotics can be effective, the science is still catching up. Benno Nigg, a biomechanics professor and co-director of the Human Performance Lab at the University of Calgary, has noted that although orthotics can have fantastic results, exactly how they work is still not fully understood.
The term “orthotic” itself is used broadly, from cheap drugstore insoles to fully customized inserts. Foot Levelers orthotics fall on the more advanced end of that spectrum and can be a great starting point for addressing foot-related causes of back pain. However, results will vary depending on the individual and the complexity of their condition. The best course of action is to use them as part of a greater overall treatment plan tailored to a person’s specific needs, as discussed with their care physician.
Total Chiropractic Care Can Help Diagnose and Relieve Your Back Pain
Even the healthiest and most physically fit among us can end up with back pain, especially if we stand for too long or wear the wrong shoes. Total Chiropractic Care and Wellness has extensive experience treating a wide range of back pain conditions and underlying biomechanical issues. We also offer the Foot Levelers Kiosk in-office, allowing us to scan your feet, assess your foot alignment, and recommend custom orthotics with the right arch support for your needs.
If you’re wondering whether your feet could be contributing to your back pain, we can help evaluate and guide your care. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward a more comfortable life.