Custom Orthotics

Feet and ankles, being the complex machines that they are, have a balanced structure. The proper alignment distributes weight and forces evenly, allowing the feet and lower legs to operate painlessly and to the best of their abilities. If the structure falls out of alignment, due to heredity or other factors, then forces are not properly distributed and problems such as pain, injuries, or sores can develop. This is where orthotics come in to set things right.

What is an Orthotic?

An orthotic is a prescription device that provides support to the joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons of the foot and lower leg. This support can help redistribute the forces of a misaligned foot structure in order to relieve pain, restore balance, or improve mobility. The majority of orthotics are custom-made for an individual, and often take the form of inserts that can often be moved from shoe to shoe.

What kinds of conditions might benefit from Orthotics?

A custom orthotic, specialized shoes, or other devices can provide relief from the symptoms of many conditions, including bunions, heel pain, flat feet, corns and calluses, neuromas, and complications of the feet resulting from diabetes. Not every case might benefit from the use of an orthotic device, however each problem must be considered on an individual basis.

How is an Orthotic prescribed?

First, a full examination of your feet and ankles to determine whether orthotics might help you and, if so, what type would be most beneficial. A foam cast or fiberglass impression is then made of your feet/ankles. The castings and prescription are sent to a local lab for fabrication so that custom devices can be expertly designed to your specific measurements. This process takes about 3 weeks, and once your orthotics arrive we will meet to make sure they provide the best fit for your needs.

What about store-bought Inserts, Pads, Cushions, or Supports?

In some cases, a store-bought insert might provide someone with the right form of relief. That’s perfectly fine when it does, but many people will not find complete benefit—or any at all—from these “one size fits all” options. If your feet or lower legs still hurt after trying a store-bought insert, then it is worth visiting a professional to see whether a custom-made insert would be more effective for you—or even another form of treatment entirely. Regardless, custom inserts are designed to be much more durable than their store-bought device, often lasting a number of years.

Whether your discomfort has recently developed or lasted for years, do not turn down the potential of orthotics and other devices to provide the relief you deserve. Dr. Mary K. Benjamin-Swonger in Scottsdale, Arizona is happy to help you determine whether inserts or other methods of treatment can help you regain your comfort and make getting around more enjoyable again.