What are orthotics?
Orthotics are a type of medical device that you can insert into your shoe to support the sole of your foot. Depending on your needs, your custom orthotics are made from different materials like rubber, foam, and plastic, to cradle the sole of your foot and give you greater comfort as you stand, walk, and exercise.
Orthotics can be compared to over-the-counter insoles, though they’re customized to fit your feet perfectly rather than simply adding cushion under your feet when you stand.
If you’ve tried over-the-counter insoles but find that they wear out quickly or don’t meet your needs, talk to Dr. Shwer about custom orthotics.
Do I need orthotics?
Not everyone needs orthotics, though they can be beneficial for a variety of foot-health issues like:
- High arches
- Flat feet
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bunions
- Hammertoe
- Heel pain
- Diabetic foot pain
Orthotics can also be used for general foot and ankle pain or for recovery after surgery. In some cases, custom orthotics can relieve knee, hip, and back pain if the source of your pain is coming from your feet or is related to the way you stand or walk.
What are the benefits of orthotics?
Custom orthotics offer cushioning similar to over-the-counter insoles with additional benefits like:
- Personalized arch support
- Relief from pressure on sores, wounds, or injured areas
- Decreased pain from foot deformities
- Reduced need for medications for foot pain
- Relief from back, hip, or knee pain
It’s normal for orthotics to be uncomfortable in the first two weeks since your body needs time to get used to them. As your feet adapt to your orthotics, the muscles and joints in your feet become stronger and you become more comfortable while wearing them.
What types of orthotics are available?
Dr. Shwer offers both soft and hard orthotic insoles, depending on the amount of structural support and cushion you need. There are specialized orthotics available for all types of shoes including ballet flats, work boots, and athletic shoes.
If you have diabetes or another chronic condition that causes non-healing sores or wounds, there are orthotics for slippers and sandals so that the soles of your feet are protected from cuts and injuries at all times.
To schedule a consultation for orthotics, call or use the online scheduling tool now.
