Custom Orthotics Specialist

What are custom orthotics?

Custom orthotics are prescription medical devices designed to correct biomechanical issues with the way you run, stand, or walk. They put your foot and ankle in a more functionally advantageous position to propel you through walking, sports, and life in general. If you have a chronic medical condition that causes foot pain like diabetes, plantar fasciitis, or arthritis, custom orthotics can also help provide additional support and relieve pain. Your Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry provider might also recommend orthotics if you have flat feet or fallen arches. 

Foot orthoses (commonly called "orthotics") are devices inserted into shoes to provide support for the foot by redistributing ground reaction forces acting on the foot joints while standing, walking or running. They may be either pre-moulded (also called pre-fabricated) or custom made according to a cast or impression of the foot. A great body of information exists within the orthotic literature describing their medical use for people with foot problems as well as the impact "orthotics" can have on foot, knee, hip, and spine deformities. They are used by everyone from athletes to the elderly to accommodate biomechanical deformities and a variety of soft tissue conditions. 

Custom-made foot orthoses are effective at reducing pain for people with painful high-arched feet, and may be effective for people with rheumatoid arthritis, plantar fasciitis or hallux valgus ("bunions"). For children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) custom-made and pre-fabricated foot orthoses may also reduce foot pain.[9] Foot orthoses may also be used in conjunction with properly fitted orthopaedic footwear in the prevention of foot ulcers in the at-risk diabetic foot.

What conditions can custom orthotics help treat?

Custom orthotics can treat a wide variety of foot-related issues, including:

• Back pain
• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• High arches
• Plantar fasciitis
• Flat feet
• Sports-related injuries
• Wounds and Diabetic ulcerations

Downstate Foot and Ankle has a Certified Orthotist on site to insure proper fit and function of your new devices.

The team stocks pre-fabricated orthoses and braces in all sizes.  We have the ability to cast patients on site for all types of lower extremity custom molded braces and off loading devices.

The team also prescribes custom orthotics to treat positional concerns with your feet and legs. For example, if you have underdeveloped foot muscles, orthotics can improve your gait and make mobility easier. 

Are there different types of custom foot orthotics?

At Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry, the team offers two different types of custom foot orthotics:

Rigid foot orthotics

Rigid, or functional, orthotics are made of tough materials like plastic and carbon fiber. Rigid orthotics fit inside of walking shoes or dress shoes and help correct issues like chronic pain affecting your legs, thighs, or lower back. 

Soft foot orthotics

Soft orthotics, also known as accommodative orthotics, feature soft, cushion-like materials. Soft orthotics help alleviate pressure caused by conditions like diabetic foot ulcers and plantar fasciitis. However, they’re larger and bulkier than rigid orthotics. As a result, you might need to wear them with prescription shoes.

How do I know if I need orthotics?

The only way to determine if you need custom orthotics is to schedule an appointment at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry. During your appointment, your provider performs a physical exam, reviews your medical history, and asks about the symptoms you’re experiencing. 

Your provider might also ask you to stand up, sit down or perform a series of exercises to get a better look at your gait and posture. If these tests don’t provide adequate information, your provider might also order a series of X-rays to identify arthritis or other potential injuries. 

After taking all of this information into account, your provider can develop a treatment plan that aligns with your unique needs. This might include prescription orthotics and rest; physical therapy and prescription orthotics; or some other type of treatment. 

If you’re interested in learning more about custom orthotics, make an appointment at Downstate Foot & Ankle Podiatry by calling or clicking today.