Custom foot orthotics are very similar to prescription eyeglasses. Orthotics, just like glasses, are made specifically for YOU and your needs. Only you will be able to wear them comfortably.
Custom orthotics place your feet in a corrected position, redistributing pressure and reducing pain. Because of this, they are used to treat multiple foot problems in both children and adults. Some of the conditions we treat with orthotics include: flat feet, plantar fasciitis, tendinitis, foot, ankle, and heel pain and diabetic foot ulcers.
The doctor will exam your feet while sitting, standing and walking. This will help determine what type of orthotic you will need. Some patients require an orthotic that helps to control abnormal motion in their feet while others do better with a softer or accommodative orthotic.
Once the needs of the patient are determined, the next step is to capture the shape of their feet. This can be accomplished by obtaining foam impressions, creating plaster or fiberglass casts or with 3D scanning. Our office uses a fiberglass casting technique. The process takes about 5 minutes to complete and provides a 3 dimensional cast to evaluate. The orthotics are then fabricated by a lab using the cast impressions and the prescription written by the doctor.
Although it may be tempting to treat your foot pain with over-the-counter (OTC) shoe inserts, not all foot problems fit into one box. Most OTC inserts only provide cushion, not the necessary support and correction needed to address the underlying cause. Custom orthotics provide a unique solution which addresses and corrects faulty foot mechanics.
All or a portion of your custom orthotics may be covered by your health insurance plan. Flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA) may also be used for prescription orthotics.
