What Are Custom Orthotics?

If you have foot, leg, or back pain, it may be time to consider custom orthotics. In fact, although custom orthotics are worn in the shoes, they can help many conditions beyond just foot pain.

What are orthotics used for?

There are two categories of custom orthotics: functional and accommodative. The functional type is made of a semi-rigid plastic and helps to correct “abnormal motion,” and it also can help to treat conditions such as shin splints or tendinitis. Accommodative orthotics are softer than the functional type. They provide cushioning to help with foot problems such as diabetic ulcers and calluses.

There are a variety of conditions that custom orthotics can help to treat. They can help to correct:

  • Discomfort and pain caused by arthritis
  • Heel spurs (excess bone on the heel)
  • Flat feet
  • Arches that are too high
  • Bursitis
  • Bunions
  • Stress and pressure on the feet from diabetes
  • Hammer toes, which cause painful deformities on the side of the foot
  • Plantar fasciitis

What are custom orthotics?

Orthotics simply fit inside your shoes to give you additional support where you need it. You may have seen shoe inserts at the grocery store, but custom orthotics are different – for one thing, they are made just to fit you! Whereas nonprescription inserts can help to make your shoes more comfortable and provide some arch support, they cannot specifically address problems you have with your feet like specially made custom orthotics can.

Before determining if custom orthotics are right for you, your doctor will want to examine your feet and how you walk, as well as (of course) listening to any complaints you have about your feet, legs, and back, or any other muscle pain you are having. In addition to orthotics, your doctor may also recommend some physical therapy exercises or another kind of treatment.

The goals of custom orthotics are not only to relieve your pain but also to avoid the need for more serious treatments such as surgery. When you have a problem with your feet, it can cause pain and problems throughout your body. Custom orthotics from Specialty Orthopaedics in Harrison, New York, can help. Call 914-686-0111 today to make an appointment.

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