Orthotics

What are orthotics?

Orthotics are heel or shoe inserts prescribed to treat leg, foot, or back problems.  Foot orthotics redistribute your weight on the foot to realign foot joints that cause pain or discomfort. 

Ankle-foot orthotics (AFOs) immobilize the ankle and foot, and compensate for weakness. AFOs assist with recovery from foot or ankle fractures, surgical procedures, or rheumatoid arthritis. 

Advanced Foot & Ankle Center conveniently offers custom orthotic casting on-site to make a mold of your foot. The mold is sent to a laboratory to custom-fit the orthotics to the precise shape of your foot.

What conditions do orthotics fix?

Orthotics treat or repair a variety of medical conditions and issues, including: 

• Achilles tendinitis
• Flat feet
• Heel pain
• Knee pain
• Low back pain
• Plantar fasciitis 
• Tendon and ligament injuries
• Toe walking

Flat feet, high arches, and toe walking make it challenging to find comfortable shoes and may lead to additional foot and ankle problems. 

The expert podiatry team evaluates your symptoms and condition to determine an appropriate treatment plan and use orthotics to correct foot and ankle alignment issues.

How do orthotics work?

Podiatrist-designed orthotics treat or prevent abnormal motion and control the alignment of your foot. They redistribute weight and pressure on the bottom of the feet and provide cushioning.  Orthotics help resolve alignment issues by:

• Assisting with movement
• Restricting certain movements
• Reshaping the foot or ankle

Orthotics offer benefits only when you wear them, as they do not permanently change your alignment. Your podiatrist typically uses orthotics as part of an overall treatment plan that includes physical therapy.

Do orthotics hurt?

It takes some time to adjust to wearing orthotics. At first, they feel stiff and may cause some soreness in the arch of your foot. Wearing your orthotics consistently is the best way to adjust to them, preventing further discomfort and injuries.

If wearing orthotics causes blisters, redness, or severe pain, call your podiatrist to adjust the orthotics.

Custom orthotics from Advanced Foot & Ankle Center provide a noninvasive treatment option for a variety of injuries and issues affecting your feet, ankles, and lower back.

To find out if orthotics can help you, call your nearest Advanced Foot & Ankle Center office or use the online scheduling tool to book an appointment today.