When you’re experiencing ongoing feet, ankle or leg pain, your physician may recommend prescription, custom orthotics. Unlike over-the-counter orthotics available in most drug stores, custom-made orthotics are designed to precisely fit your feet and address your problems.
Your physician will perform an examination to determine what type of orthotic device is best suited for your situation. They will be molded to fit your feet and be designed for the way you move. Pain caused by abnormal motion can be addressed with functional orthotics which are usually crafted from semi-rigid materials such as plastic or graphite. When extra cushioning is required to alleviate pain from calluses, ulcers etc., an accommodative orthotic device is typically prescribed.
Prescription orthotics are molded to precisely fit the patient and are constructed of materials that can last several years when properly cared for. Health insurance often pays for a portion of prescription orthotics.
When Orthotics are Recommended:
Your podiatrist may prescribe orthotics if you suffer from any of the following conditions:
- Pain caused by the misalignment of the foot or ankle
- Foot deformities causing pain
- Foot or ankle function impacting patient’s ability to walk
- Conditions such as bunions, corns and calluses, cavus foot, flatfoot, stiff big toe, hammer toe, forefoot pain, limb length deformity, Morton neuroma, ulcers, plantar fasciitis, runner’s painful knee.
In the past, custom molds were created of the patients’ feet. Today, we utilize computers to generate a foot analysis that will more accurately outcome of your condition as it relates to walking and posture.
While over-the-counter orthotics may be effective for some patients, choosing the wrong type of device can exacerbate a painful condition.
If you would like to be evaluated for orthotics, please contact our office today at 631-864-3338