As we celebrate 12 years of SoleFit this spring, we asked our Certified Pedorthists what influences them most when assessing and treating clients. All of our Pedorthists share 10+ years in evaluating, treating, and making recommendations for movement pathologies linked with pain and overuse. It’s important to evolve treatment strategies as new information emerges, while avoiding following the latest fad blindly. Below are key learnings and actions that have proven most influential in a patient’s successful treatment.
Education
Education, education, education (did we mention education?)! When a patient understands their treatment plan, they are much more likely to follow the correct course of action to recovery.
Keep Moving
Lack of daily movement slows progress and hampers performance. Low intensity movement (walking, standing workstations, active recovery like yoga) supports tissue strength, joint stability, bone density, and posture. Even in cases of acute pain, we emphasize safe strategies for varied movement.
It’s a Great Time to be a Runner
Running biomechanics and minimalist styles have evolved tremendously. The “experiment of one” applies—what works for one runner may differ for another. Luckily, there are more options than ever to keep runners running longer and more efficiently.
It’s a great time to be a runner with all the information available, but also a confusing time. Understanding your own variables is important before committing to any technique.
‘Good’ Stress is Still Stress
Training type, volume, and intensity need to be carefully managed for every active client. Improper stress/rest cycles can undermine even the best treatment plan. Best intentions sometimes work against overall health goals.
Experiment of One
There is no single correct treatment plan or timeline for everyone. Knowing the patient, their injury, and their goals is key. Each person is their own ‘experiment of one’.
Keep Limber
Range of Motion is crucial. Restoring ideal movement using massage, mobility tools, stretches, and dynamic exercises is often one of the first steps to correcting painful movement. Lack of range of motion may contribute to up to 90% of injuries we see.
Mobility tools like Yoga Tune Up Balls or Tiger Tails (or DIY options like lacrosse balls) help improve movement. Long hold stretching (Yin Yoga, ROMWOD) can also create significant results.
Know How ‘Bandaids’ Fit in the Big Picture ‘Fix’
Short-term tools like orthotics and bracing help patients recover faster and prevent injuries. Long-term goals focus on addressing underlying problems so reliance on these ‘bandaids’ decreases. Every patient is different, and there is no singular solution.
Get What You Pay For
Custom made really should mean custom made! Small adjustments to orthotics and knee braces can make a huge difference in comfort and performance. Patients paying custom prices should always aim for the optimal fit.
There are great off-the-shelf products, so when buying custom you want it to be better. Small adjustments to knee braces and orthotics can be the difference between ‘okay’ and ‘perfect’.
As always, we’d love to hear from you if you have any questions or comments. To keep up with blog posts, health tips, and upcoming events, sign up for our monthly newsletter!
