This is the time of year when I frequently get asked about orthotics for ski and snowboard boots. “Will my orthotics work as foot beds?”, “What’s the difference between an orthotic and a foot bed?”, “Can I use my foot bed as an orthotic?” and so on and so forth. In my practice I examine many varieties of “gait pathology”. That basically means when someone walks funny, or, outside of “normal”. The examination involves watching how the foot strikes the ground, moves across the ground, pushes the individual forward and how that translates into the knee, hip, back, shoulders, neck and head. Sometimes I will prescribe “orthotic therapy” to correct their abnormal gait if it results in pain, joint degeneration, or inefficiency (in some cases).
Now, if we think about the foot and foot function in a ski or snowboard boot (which I understand are two different activities and may require different foot beds for each, but for the sake of this conversation the function is similar enough to lump them together) the full foot is in contact with the sole of the boot 100% of the time whether you’re turning right or left. There may be more pressure imposed on the toe or heel or inside and outside of the foot depending on which way you are turning, but the foot is for all intents and purposes in one position. This being the case, the foot doesn’t have to be a mobile adapter to the extent that it does while walking or running. It is not changing throughout the course of each step as in walking and therein lies the difference.
While an orthotic should functionally change (in a good way) the way your foot progresses across the ground with each step, the foot bed should put your foot in the optimal position to effectively transfer energy from toe edge to heel edge or inside edge to outside edge of the foot while also providing a modicum of comfort. So, to answer the questions: “Can my orthotic function as my foot bed?” Maybe, though orthotics may be too rigid to be comfortable when skiing. “Can my foot bed function as an orthotic?” Probably not, it was not built with the intention of correcting your particular gait cycle in mind.
At Pro-Motion, I am intensely interested in helping you stay pain free and as active as possible. If you have any questions please consult with your trainer, therapist or professional and feel free to contact me. Train smarter, not harder, and be well. I am always available for questions or consultation either through my email, website, or by phone at 307-699-3170.
In Health, Jeremiah
