Podiatrist Orthotics
Foot orthoses (orthotics) are a common treatment option for several problems, ranging from foot pain to neck and shoulder pain. Podiatrists, in particular, regularly use orthotics to help patients recover from and prevent lower limb pain and gait problems. If you’re looking to get orthotics, we offer two orthotic solutions designed to treat foot conditions and provide optimal support where you need it most.
Orthotics can also improve posture, enhance athletic performance, and prevent the recurrence of injuries by ensuring proper alignment and support. Our podiatrists will assess your specific needs and recommend the most effective orthotic solution, whether it’s custom-made orthotics or formthotics. Advance Foot Clinic Podiatry can create orthotic solutions tailored to your specific needs.
What are orthotics?
We place orthotic inserts in your shoes to change the alignment of your feet’s bones. Foot orthoses also provide cushioning and pressure reduction for painful areas of your feet. Podiatrists are the experts in providing foot orthoses. They have thoroughly studied the biomechanics of the feet and understand the unique considerations in providing orthotic interventions.
Orthotics have been used for centuries to alleviate foot pain and discomfort. Their origins trace back to ancient Greece, where splints and braces were employed to correct foot conditions and provide relief for those constantly on their feet. As technology has advanced, so have the treatments for foot, neck, and back pain, leading to modern orthotic solutions that have become a trusted staple among podiatrists worldwide.
What are orthotics used for?
Your feet play a crucial role in supporting and controlling your entire body as you stand, walk, and run. The bones, muscles, and ligaments in your feet work together to manage this responsibility, sometimes absorbing forces up to 2.5 times your body weight. Given this, it’s understandable that your feet sometimes need extra support to help you walk comfortably and pain-free.
Orthotics improve foot comfort by redistributing plantar forces and repositioning joints into a more effective alignment. These changes in the feet also influence other joints, muscles, and tendons higher up in the body. For example, improving foot posture may reduce knee, hip, or back pain.
Foot orthoses are used to treat numerous foot conditions, such as:
- Foot pain – heel pain, forefoot pain, ankle pain
- Leg pain
- Knee pain
- Hip pain
- Lower back pain
- Fibromyalgia affecting the lower limbs
- Bunions
- Osteoarthritis
- Ankle instability and sprains
- Hypermobility
- Morton’s neuroma and neuritis
- Achilles tendon pain
What types of orthotics are there?
We offer two orthotic options for our patients: custom-made orthotics and formthotics. It’s advisable to consult with your podiatrist to determine which is best for you. They can help assess your specific concerns and determine if orthotic therapy is appropriate based on your individual needs. Below, we explain the two different types of orthotics and their use.
Custom made orthotics
The main option we recommend for the best treatment is custom orthotics. These orthotics are made using a scan or cast of your physical foot and highlight areas of pain or discomfort so extra support can be provided in those areas. This means they fit you perfectly, like a glove. Your podiatrist can give you the best biomechanical correction and the most comfortable orthotic shoe inserts.
Custom-made orthotics can alleviate foot pain, correct arch issues, address alignment problems, and resolve biomechanical imbalances. They are designed to absorb ground reaction force, which can cause strain on your feet, joints, and back, helping you walk comfortably and pain-free.
Formthotics
The alternative option is a pre-made or formthotics (prefabricated) orthoses. These orthotics are different to what you can buy over the counter at a pharmacy or footwear store, but they are not fully custom orthotics.
Instead, they are a general orthotic template that comes in a range of sizes and can fit most feet. Our podiatrists then heat-mould and modify this orthotic template to provide a better fit, arch contour, and support for your feet. Prefab orthotics are customised to your feet, but they are not made custom for your feet. This is why there is a difference in cost between the two options.
If you don’t have specific foot issues or no further evidence for orthotic therapy, we recommend Formthotics for general support and comfort.
The first step towards getting either type of orthotics inserts is to speak with your podiatrist. Call 1300 76 33 66 or book online.
Why Choose Advance Foot Clinic Podiatry
We observe the positive effect of foot orthoses daily and specialise in crafting custom slim fit orthotics. While over-the-counter shoe inserts are available at pharmacies, orthotics from a podiatrist offer the most effective treatment for foot pain because they are tailored specifically to your needs.
Personalised Orthotic solutions
Experience personalised orthotic care with treatment plans tailored to your unique foot health needs and concerns. We are dedicated to helping our patients lead their best lives by providing orthotics that enable them to walk pain-free.
Experienced professionals
Benefit from the expertise of our highly qualified podiatrists, who are dedicated to delivering top-notch care and exceptional treatment outcomes.
Patient-focused
Our podiatrists are dedicated to patient care, prioritising your well-being when providing treatment. With a focus on your individual needs, you can trust that we have your best interests in mind. Rest assured, you're in compassionate and skilled hands.
Holistic approach
We understand the interconnectedness of foot health with overall well-being. That's why we focus on providing treatments that improve your mobility and comfort throughout your daily life.
Achieve better foot function with Advance Foot Clinic Podiatry
Investing in orthotics is really worth the price when it comes to providing lasting foot and back pain relief. Quality orthotics can make a significant difference in your overall comfort and well-being. By offering the proper support and alignment, these insoles help alleviate pressure on your feet and reduce the strain on the rest of your body, allowing you to move more comfortably throughout the day. Plus, you won’t have to compromise on style—our orthotics are designed to fit seamlessly into your shoes, so you can enjoy the benefits without having to wear clunky footwear.
If you are experiencing foot pain and are considering orthotics, Advance Foot Clinic Podiatry is here to help you find the perfect solution, providing support where you need it most.
Take the first step towards happy and healthy feet.
Ready to give your feet the care they deserve? Book your appointment online or call us and experience our expert podiatry services at any of our five clinic locations.