Orthotics
Supporting Every Step: Custom Orthotics Designed to Improve Alignment, Relieve Pain, and Enhance Comfort for Better Movement and Quality of Life.
Orthotics
How we diagnose problems
Orthotics (sometimes called insoles, shoe inserts or orthoses) are devices placed inside your shoes to correct the biomechanic balance to your legs and feet and realign your posture.
Unlike over the counter shoe insoles, orthotics are custom made to address individual foot function
Types of orthotics
Orthotics can be part of a treatment plan to address various symptoms, usually having to do with pain and discomfort of the feet and legs. Some of the goals for orthotic treatment include:
- correcting foot deformities
- helping the foot or ankle function better
- providing support to the ankle
- reducing the risks for further injuries
Orthotics are more than just a heel pad or shoe insert you can buy at most stores. They are highly customised shoe or heel inserts made for your feet. We will only recommend an orthotic if an off-the-shelf device or other treatments, such as exercises at home, haven’t proven effective.
When should I see a podiatrist?
We’ll first ask about your symptoms, questions may include when you first noticed the symptoms, what makes them worse, and what makes them better. We will then conduct a physical exam of your feet; we will look for deformities and areas that are especially painful. We will likely ask you to walk and perform other activities to determine how the feet and ankles are positioned during certain exercises.
When should I see a podiatrist?
Orthotics can be customised in a variety of materials. We will write a prescription for an orthotic material based on what condition and symptoms a person has. The orthotic types can range in materials from rigid — usually made from materials such as carbon fibre or plastic — to accommodative, which is very flexible and cushioning.
Some orthotics are full-shoe inserts similar to the insoles present in many athletic shoes. Others are a smaller heel insert that fits into the back cup of the shoe.
