CUSTOM FOOT ORTHOTICS
The purpose of a custom orthotic is to align your foot and ankle in the most anatomically efficient position. Although they resemble insoles, they are biomechanical medical devices that are custom-made to correct your particular foot imbalance. Custom orthotics reduce stress and strain on your body by aligning your feet properly, much like glasses do with your eyes. Through redirecting and reducing certain motions that occur during the gait cycle, the custom orthotic helps to re-align the foot. With custom orthotics, your shoes fit as comfortably as an insole, and they have the advantage of being custom made based on the exact impressions of your feet.
The custom-made foot orthotic is fabricated from raw materials based on a three-dimensional model of the patient’s foot. These orthotics are constructed to meet the individual needs of each patient.
The custom-made foot orthotic is fabricated from raw materials based on a three-dimensional model of the patient’s foot. These orthotics are constructed to meet the individual needs of each patient.
A custom-made foot orthotic can be:
“Accommodative” – the primary objective is to keep ulcers, callosities, and pressure points free from pain.
“Functional” – designed primarily to facilitate biomechanical movement of the feet and lower legs.
“Functional” – designed primarily to facilitate biomechanical movement of the feet and lower legs.
The following conditions are commonly treated with custom orthotics:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bunions
- Excessive foot pronation (pronated feet/flat feet)
- Malalignment syndromes
- Flat feet, in-toes, and out-toes among children
- Neuromas (burning/numbness under ball of foot)
- Foot pain/heel pain/arch pain/leg pain and fatigue
- Knee pain
- Back pain
- Arthritis
Custom-Made Orthotics vs. Over-the-Counter Orthotics
Over-the-Counter Devices
Pharmacies, grocery stores, and other retail outlets sell basic over-the-counter devices. There are more supportive types of over-the-counter devices available at pedorthic facilities.
Pros
Convenience and affordability are advantages of over-the-counter devices.
Most over-the-counter devices are effective in treating common foot conditions caused by minor biomechanical abnormalities. As an example, they can be used as a temporary device for a child who is rapidly growing or as a “first step” in finding out how a patient will respond and tolerate an orthotic.
Most over-the-counter devices are effective in treating common foot conditions caused by minor biomechanical abnormalities. As an example, they can be used as a temporary device for a child who is rapidly growing or as a “first step” in finding out how a patient will respond and tolerate an orthotic.
Cons
Not all foot types can wear them.
Only moderate biomechanical abnormalities can be supported by them. For more complex issues, a custom-made device may be necessary.
The lifespan of a foot orthotic is usually shorter than that of a custom-made one.
Only moderate biomechanical abnormalities can be supported by them. For more complex issues, a custom-made device may be necessary.
The lifespan of a foot orthotic is usually shorter than that of a custom-made one.
Custom-Made Orthotics
In contrast to over-the-counter devices, custom foot orthotics are made specifically for the patient following an assessment of their feet and legs by an expert such as a Certified Pedorthist, Physiotherapist, or Chiropractor.
Custom foot orthotics are made from raw materials after a three-dimensional model of the patient’s foot has been constructed. This allows them to be tailored to the patient’s specific needs. Custom foot orthotics can be:
- “Accommodative” – the primary objective is to deflect pressure away from ulcers, callosities, and painful pressure points
- “Functional” – used to control the biomechanical function of the foot and lower leg
Pros
A custom foot orthosis provides accurate biomechanical support.
In order to create perfect fit and function, the device can be modified continuously.
A wide variety of materials can be used to provide specific support and cushioning to enhance functionality and comfort.
The longer lifespan of custom orthotics may compensate for their higher initial price.
In order to create perfect fit and function, the device can be modified continuously.
A wide variety of materials can be used to provide specific support and cushioning to enhance functionality and comfort.
The longer lifespan of custom orthotics may compensate for their higher initial price.
Cons
While many insurance plans cover orthotics, a custom-made orthotic costs significantly more than an over-the-counter device.
Starting a new orthotic.
Your healthcare professional may recommend a foot orthotic if you are suffering from foot or lower limb discomfort.
Starting a new orthotic.
Your healthcare professional may recommend a foot orthotic if you are suffering from foot or lower limb discomfort.
Common Conditions Custom Orthotics Treat Include:
- Since the shoe provides the foundation for the orthotic, the foot orthotic is only as good as the shoe it goes into. It won’t be able to function properly if it doesn’t have a proper foundation.
- Initially, a new foot orthotic may feel intrusive, and it may take a few weeks for you to get used to it. On the first day, you may be advised to wear your new orthotic for less than an hour. Over time, your wear time should be gradually increased.
- It should never be painful to wear a foot orthotic. Contact your provider if your orthotic becomes painful or you cannot get used to it. An orthotic adjustment will be made to improve your comfort.
How much do benefits cover Orthotics and Custom shoes?
The fee is usually covered in part or in full by many insurance plans. However, each plan is different. It is the patient’s responsibility to check with their provider before purchasing any products.
Are you looking for custom foot orthotics? Please contact us for an appointment.
Are you looking for custom foot orthotics? Please contact us for an appointment.
Direct Billing
We offer direct billing service. Please contact our office for more details.
Calgary’s most trusted Physiotherapy, Massage Therapy and Pelvic Health Clinic. We offer many services including physiotherapy, manual therapy, registered massage therapy, vestibular therapy,dry needling physiotherapy, custom foot orthotics, shockwave therapy and more. Our three locations are conveniently located in Country Village, McKnight Blvd, and Monterey Park.
Direct Billing
We offer direct billing service. Please contact our office for more details.
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