Custom Foot Orthotics

Overview

A custom orthotic is a device designed to align the foot and ankle into the most anatomically efficient position. They look like insoles, but are biomechanical medical appliances that are custom made to correct your specific foot imbalance. Custom orthotics work on your feet much like glasses work on your eyes – they reduce stress and strain on your body by bringing your feet back into proper alignment. The plastic body of the custom orthotic helps to re-align the foot by redirecting and reducing certain motion that takes place during the gait cycle. Custom orthotics fit into your shoes as comfortably as an insole – and they have the advantage of having been made from precise imprints of your feet.
A custom-made foot orthotic is made from a three-dimensional model of the patient’s foot and is fabricated from raw materials. It is designed to meet the patient’s unique and specific needs. A custom-made foot orthotic can be:

Accommodative

where the primary goal is to deflect pressure away from ulcers, callosities and painful pressure points

Functional

a device primarily designed to control foot and lower leg biomechanical function

Common Conditions Custom Orthotics Treat Include:

Over-the-Counter v/s Custom-Made Orthotics

Over-the-Counter Devices

Basic over-the-counter devices are mass produced and sold through pharmacies, grocery stores and other retail stores. More supportive types of over-the-counter devices can be found at pedorthic facilities.

Pros

Cons

Custom-Made Orthotics

Unlike over-the-counter devices, a custom-made foot orthotic is made specifically for the patient following an assessment of their feet and legs by an expert such as a Certified Pedorthist, Physiotherapist or Chiropractor. 

A custom-made foot orthotic is made from a three-dimensional model of the patient’s foot and is fabricated from raw materials. It is designed to meet the patient’s unique and specific needs. A custom-made foot orthotic can be:

  • “Accommodative” – where the primary goal is to deflect pressure away from ulcers, callosities and painful pressure points
  • “Functional” – a device primarily designed to control foot and lower leg biomechanical function

Pros

Cons

Here are a few tips to help get you started with your new orthotic:

Do Benefits Cover Orthotics and Custom Shoes?

Many plans do cover a portion or all of the fee. Each plan is highly variable. It is the patient’s responsibility to check with their provider prior to purchasing.

Looking for custom foot orthotics? Call us and book your appointment today.