Orthotics, Braces and Preventive Care

What You Need to Know

Learn how custom orthotics and braces support your feet and address common conditions.

Custom Orthotics and Ankle Bracing

Orthotics are medical devices podiatrists at our offices prescribe to patients. They are custom made insoles you place inside your shoes to support the bones, joints, and muscles of your feet. Custom foot orthotics are designed to align the foot and ankle into the most anatomically efficient position. They look similar to insoles, but are biomedical appliances that are custom made to correct your specific foot imbalance.

Custom functional orthotics are used to treat and relieve pain from a variety of foot and ankle problems including ankle instability, bunions, Hallux Rigidus, plantar fasciitis, tendinitis and other arthritic problems. Custom ankle braces, called ankle foot orthotics (AFO), are also available at our clinics. These devices can help to increase mobility, prevent falls, improve gait, and decrease pain.

Our podiatrists recommend orthotics for biomechanical foot issues like tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, neuromas, shin splints, high arches, and flatfeet. Orthotics are also recommended for people who need more support for their feet, either due to their job or having a medical condition like diabetes that can cause foot wounds.

Most foot and ankle problems can be traced back to improper foot position and alignment. Often this is genetic in nature but can be significantly improved by the use of custom orthotics. True custom orthotics hold the feet in what is termed “neutral” position, which is the optimal position for overall foot motion and strength. To set up a fitting for orthotics, call our office or use the online booking tool to schedule your visit.

How Custom Orthotics and Braces Are Made

We utilize the latest in 3-D imaging and scanning techniques to obtain an accurate impression of the feet. In the past, plaster casting or foam impressions were used but often produced inaccurate molds due to patient movement or improper casting techniques. We have perfected this technique, employing optical imaging to eliminate these problems.

To make a pair of custom orthotics, your podiatrist uses laser scanning technology. Laser scans involve standing on a small platform that acts as a digital scanner. In less than a minute, the scanner takes an image of your feet and relays it to a computer for analysis, showing how you distribute your body weight and any muscle imbalances contributing to your condition.

There are two main types of orthotics. Functional orthotics address biomechanical issues and control foot movement, generally made from semi-rigid materials like plastic or graphite. Accommodative orthotics are softer and add cushion and support for painful conditions like calluses, corns, and diabetic foot wounds. Custom ankle braces are also available, including the Arizona brace, Moore Balance Brace, Ritchie Brace, posterior leaf AFO, and off loading leg brace.

Custom orthotics can be made for work boots, athletic shoes, flats, tennis shoes, sandals, and slippers. They are typically ready within 5 to 7 business days, with rush orders completed in three days for an additional fee. Most last 2 to 4 years. Contact our office to schedule your fitting and get started.