Do I need orthotics?

What are orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts that are placed into a shoe to help alleviate foot, leg, and back pain.  Orthotics can be prefabricated or custom made.  Prefabricated orthotics are purchased over the counter often at sporting good stores, running stores, or even pharmacies.  Although they may be made for certain foot structures or to help alleviate pain for certain conditions, they are not customized to the patient’s foot.  Custom orthotics are available in the podiatrist’s office and are made from a scan or a cast mold to specifically fit a patient’s foot and address the patient’s symptoms.  Custom orthotics can be created with certain features to help relieve a patient’s symptoms.

Why would I need custom orthotics?

Orthotics may be needed for a variety of reasons.  For some, orthotics can offload areas of pressure or sores spots.  For others, orthotics can help correct any malalignment or control abnormal motion.

Here is a list of some conditions that orthotics can help treat:

• Arthritis
• Limb length discrepancy
• Back/hip pain
• Flat feet
• High arched feet
• Diabetic neuropathy
• Bunions
• Neuromas
• Plantar fasciitis
• Hammertoes
• Chronic ankle sprains

What are they types of custom orthotics?

• Functional orthotics: These are the most common type of orthotics that we make for patients. They tend to a be a little more rigid to provide more support and correction.
• Dress orthotics: Not everyone can wear gym shoes all day. Dress/work shoes can be very fatiguing to the feet.  Dress inserts are made specifically to fit dress shoes (even heels) and provide comfort.
• Accomodative orthotics: These orthotics are made of a softer material. They are typically made for people with diabetes or severe deformities/arthritis.  These orthotics are created to reduce pressure to the feet to help prevent ulcerations.
• Sport orthotics: Orthotics can be made to help control motion and alignment in certain shoe gear such as cleats and golf shoes.

If you would like to know more or be casted for a pair of custom orthotics click HERE to make an appointment with our podiatrists at Star Foot & Ankle Specialists in Frisco.