You have probably heard of foot orthoses (orthotics), but do you know what are orthotics used for? New patients and patients struggling with foot pains often ask this question.
What are they?
Orthotics are devices specially designed by your podiatrist for your feet. They slip into your shoes. Orthotics have been around for centuries, but have definitely changed in the way they are being manufactured and prescribed, as our knowledge about biomechanics and foot problems has evolved. They work on your feet to reposition joints and alter the distribution of plantar pressures traveling through your lower limbs as you walk and run. This all helps to reduce foot and lower limb pain.
What are orthotics used for?
Orthotics can:
- Help align and support the foot and ankle
- Reduce and correct pronation (flat feet)
- Provide accommodation and correction of foot abnormalities to help prevent or treat pain in your feet
- Offload high pressure areas on your feet
- Help with lower back pain and leg length differences
- Treat a range of foot problems such as plantar fasciitis, morton’s neuroma and various tendinopathies
How are orthotics made?
The very first step is to have an initial appointment with your podiatrist, who will do a thorough musculoskeletal and gait assessment. Following this, a 3D scan will be taken of your foot. The scan gives your podiatrist a 3D model of your foot which they use to custom design your orthotic prescription.
Your prescription is sent off to our laboratory where they are manufactured and sent back to us ready to be fitted into your shoes.
If you would like to learn more about whether custom orthotics are right for you please call our team on 07 3351 5888 or book an appointment online.