What Are Orthotics?
Custom-made orthotics are a medical device designed to bring your feet and ankles back into proper alignment. This aims to reduce stress and strain on your body. Unlike over-the-counter inserts, which provide basic cushioning, orthotics are tailored to address your specific biomechanical issues. Custom foot orthotics can help relieve discomfort throughout your body by maintaining the alignment of the ankles, knees, hips and spine.
Custom-made orthotics can be made for a variety of shoe types, including runners, work shoes, work boots, dress shoes, and sandals. Custom-made orthotics can be made for your recreational interests too including tennis, pickleball, golf, hockey, soccer, and cycling.
When to Use Orthotics
Orthotics can be beneficial for a variety of conditions and symptoms. Some common reasons to consider wearing custom-made orthotics include:
- Localized Foot or Arch Pain: persistent pain in specific areas of the foot can be a sign that orthotics might help.
- Plantar Fasciitis: inflammation or degeneration of the band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot.
- Bunions: also known as hallux abducto valgus, is a bony bump that develops on the inside of the base of the big toe that can become painful.
- Hammer Toes: the toe (typically second toe), bends downward at the middle joint, resembling a hammer
- Metatarsalgia: inflammation of the ball of the foot; can be burning, sharp, aching, or feel like you are “walking on a pebble”
- Morton’s Neuroma: thickening of tissue around a nerve in the ball of the foot causing foot pain
- Achilles Tendinopathy: common overuse injury to the tendon in the back of the leg that connects the calf to the heel; often causes pain, swelling and stiffness
- Shin Splints: pain and inflammation along the inner or outer edge of the shinbone, known as the tibia
- Iliotibial Band Syndrome: tendon along the side of the leg becomes irritated or swollen, often causing pain on the outer side of the knee
- Knee and Leg Pain: misalignment in the feet often affects the knees and legs
- Low Back or Hip Pain: correcting foot alignment can have positive effects on the entire kinetic chain, including the back and hips.
Why Get Orthotics Now?
As spring arrives, the transition from heavy winter boots to lighter footwear can leave your feet needing extra support, making custom orthotics a good choice. For those working in manual labor jobs, like construction or factory work, where steel-toed boots are common, orthotics can provide much-needed relief and support throughout your long workdays. Additionally, with the promise of summer’s increased activity levels, now is the perfect time to adopt a preventative approach to foot health. Whether you’re enjoying leisurely walks, running, or simply spending more time on your feet, orthotics can help reduce the risk of injury and enhance overall comfort.
How Do I Know If I Need Custom-Made Orthotics?
Interested to know if custom-made orthotics are the right fit for your feet? Dr. Elizabeth offers custom-made orthotic assessment appointments.
What Does A Custom-Made Orthotic Assessment Look Like?
At this appointment, Dr. Elizabeth will:
- Review your health history, including lifestyle and recreational activities.
- Assess your gait (how you walk and move), including assessing your ankles, knees, hips and low back/spine.
- If orthotics are determined to be appropriate for you, Dr. Elizabeth will:
- Create a foam cast of your foot using a foam box
- Send the foam box (and your shoes if needed) to The Orthotic Group Lab in Toronto to make your custom-made orthotics
How Long Does It Take For My Orthotics To Be Made?
It takes typically 2 weeks for orthotics to be made. Once made, Dr. Elizabeth performs an orthotic fitting to ensure the orthotics fit your shoe and feet comfortably.
Many personal insurance plans cover custom made orthotics. In some cases, a prescription from your medical doctor is required. Talk to Emma or Dr. Elizabeth if you have any orthotic questions!
