The word Custom Orthotics speaks for itself. They are customized and are meant to be for your individual needs. However, even with the uniqueness of your feet, we have the ability to further customize your orthotics based on the make, model and your shoe ware.
Taking a cast of your feet is the first step, however, based on the observations, gait analysis and assessment that we do at the office, we decide which type of orthotic would be most suitable for your specific needs.
If you suffer from chronic ankle pain, foot arch pain or even knee pain, it is possible that pain may be coming from biomechanical forces that are distributed unevenly from your feet up the kinetic chain and custom made orthotics may be an appropriate option for you.
What Are Orthotics?
Custom foot orthotics are commonly prescribed to individuals who suffer from any type of foot pain that is not responding to conservative therapy.
When considering if you are a candidate for foot orthotics, it is imperative to book an appointment with your Coquitlam-based professional physiotherapist or chiropractor so that they can conduct a thorough assessment of your feet to determine if custom orthotics are the right choice for you.
The Difference Between Insoles and Orthotics
Insoles refer to the extra removable padding that comes with your shoes when you purchase them. These insoles are generic and are not meant to give much support but rather are there to provide extra cushion for your comfort.
When we refer to orthotics, we mean shoe inserts that are meant to correct an irregular gait or provide further support to the feet via cushioning or arch support. Customizable orthotics can be modified to the shape of the individual’s feet and specific shoes and are typically prescribed through a chiropractor or chiropodist.
Custom orthotics can help prevent injuries and alleviate pain from prolonged walking or standing. Orthotics can act as shock absorbers and remove unwanted pressure from feet and ankles.
To determine which type of custom orthotics is appropriate for you, it is best to consult either of our chiropractos at Fulcrum Therapy for a full assessment and examination of your feet, gait analysis, and walking patterns.
Our chiropractors will then make the necessary recommendation and decide if orthotics are the right choice for you and can take your cast during the same visit if needed.
Different Types of Custom Orthotics
Custom foot orthotics have more than one type which can vary depending on your condition and your shoe ware.
There are thinner types of custom orthotics that may be more suitable for women and dress shoes with narrower to boxes. We also have more rigid orthotics and ones that emphasize arch support. We can also modify the orthotic for its level of thickness, heel pad and length to ensure it fits your shoe size comfortably.
Rigid Orthotics
If you have trouble with foot and ankle instability, a rigid orthotic may be the right choice for you. These types of devices are prescribed for function control and are meant to be used in walking shoes or dress shoes.
The material tends to be more firm to support the two major joints of the feet. They help alleviate strains, aches and pains in the feet, ankles, legs and even further up the kinetic chain such as knees and hips.
These orthotics have the longest life span due to their rigid nature, however, they can also take longer to adapt to for someone who has never used orthotics in the past.
Ideal for These Conditions:
- Ankle or feet joint instability
- Repetitive ankle strains
- Walking
Other type we are going to discuss, is semi-rigid foot orthotics.
Semi-rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotics, as their name suggests are a mixture of rigid orthotics and the soft orthotics. This type is made up of multiple layers of soft material that is reinforced with the more rigid materials.
This type of orthotic is suitable for children suffering from flat foot and athletes who experience pain while they are training and competing.
Ideal for These Conditions:
- Walking
- Playing sports
- Children with flatfeet
The third custom orthotics type are soft ones which is discussed below.
Soft Orthotics
Soft orthotics are made up of multiple layers of the soft material, and are the best for shock absorption, balance and reduction of pressure from certain sore spots.
These are appropriate in patients with chronic feet pain that are highly sensitive and painful. Soft orthotics will compress easier and will be more comfortable against the sore areas of the feet.
Since they are softer, their life expectancy may not be as long as rigid or semi-rigid orthotics.
Similar to the other types of orthotics, these are also designed by taking a cast of the feet to ensure the design suits the patient’s individual needs.
Ideal for These Conditions:
- Chronic foot pain
- Pain from Morton’s neuroma
- Severe plantar fasciitis
- Sensitive feet
How to Choose the Right Type of Custom Orthotics?
It can get confusing and overwhelming if you are trying to decide which type of orthotics is appropriate for you. Our expert professionals are here to guide you through this process and take the pressure off from you.
You may be wondering if orthotics are even the right choice for you. When you book an initial visit with our practitioners, we take the time to get to know you, your needs and through our assessment, we determine if custom orthotics are appropriate for your individual needs.
Booking a custom orthotics appointment does not mean you have to commit to a pair. Treat it as an opportunity to discuss your concerns with your chiropractor or physiotherapist and to get their expert opinion.