Orthotics

What are orthotics?

Prescription orthotics are special shoe or heel inserts designed to support the unique curves and structure of your feet. Unlike inserts you buy at the store, custom orthotics are made specifically for you. 

At Precision Podiatry, the doctors regularly use prescription orthotics to relieve pain and discomfort caused by foot, leg, and back problems. 

What conditions can orthotics treat?

At Precision Podiatry, the team uses prescription orthotics to ease the uncomfortable symptoms of several conditions, including:

• Arthritis
• Back pain
• Bunions
• Bursitis
• Flat feet
• Hammertoes
• Heel spurs
• High arches
• Plantar fasciitis

You might also benefit from treatment with custom orthotics if there are positional concerns with your feet or legs. For example, if you have underdeveloped foot or leg muscles, your Precision Podiatry provider might prescribe orthotics.

Are there different types of orthotics?

At Precision Podiatry, patients can access several different types of orthotics, including:

Rigid orthotics

Rigid orthotics are usually made of materials like carbon fiber or plastic. They hold your foot or ankle in place and prevent them from wobbling or moving around. 

Accommodative orthotics

Accommodative orthotics are soft and feature padded or cushion-like materials. They also tend to be bigger than rigid orthotics. As a result, they’re usually worn on the outside of your shoe.

Am I a good candidate for orthotics? 

To determine if you’re a candidate for orthotics, make an appointment at Precision Podiatry. Following a physical exam, review of your medical history, and discussion of your symptoms, your podiatrist can make recommendations that align with your individual needs. That said, if you regularly experience foot or ankle pain, and you’ve tried various conservative treatments to provide relief, you’re probably a candidate for treatment. 

What is the process for getting orthotics?

If your Precision Podiatry provider determines you’re a good candidate for orthotics, they conduct a biomechanical examination of your feet and ankles. During this exam, they measure your toes, ankles, knees, legs, and hips. 

After taking measurements, your doctor performs a gait analysis while you’re walking and running. This determines how your feet and ankles function during physical activity.

Last but not least, your doctor makes 3D models of your feet, using plaster casts or compressible foam. Your doctor sends these models to a laboratory that manufactures your custom orthotics.

To learn more about the benefits of custom orthotics, make an appointment at Precision Podiatry today by calling the office nearest you.