Do You Need Custom Orthotics?
Custom orthotics are a type of orthopedic device designed to correct biomechanical imbalances in the feet and ankles. They are typically manufactured out of a hard, durable material that is molded to the exact shape of a patient’s feet.
Custom orthotics can treat a variety of conditions such as flat feet, heel pain, and ankle instability. They offer support and cushioning to the feet and help alleviate pain and significantly improve mobility. Orthotics can also be used to improve athletic performance and prevent injuries. Custom orthotics are designed to be comfortable and provide the best possible support for a patient’s individual needs.
Do You Need Custom Orthotics?
If you suffer from chronic pain, discomfort, or instability in your feet, custom orthotics may be the solution for you. The best thing about custom orthotics is that they are specifically designed for your feet and provide relief for a variety of conditions while offering a comfortable feel.
Orthotics are also beneficial for people who have pain in their ankles, knees, and hips due to misalignment. If you’ve tried over-the-counter shoe inserts and feel they are not providing adequate support, it may be time to consider custom orthotics. Since custom orthotics are designed to fit the exact shape of your foot, they provide maximum support, relief, and comfort.
Types of Orthotics
Soft Orthotics
Soft Orthotics are a type of orthotic device that is designed to provide maximum cushioning and shock absorption to the body while supporting and protecting the feet, ankles, and other areas of the lower body. Soft Orthotics are usually made of lightweight, flexible materials such as silicone or neoprene and provide support without the rigid, uncomfortable feel of traditional hard orthotics.
They are often used to help relieve pain and discomfort associated with foot injuries and conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and arch pain. Soft Orthotics can also improve pressure on the foot, reduce strain on the lower body, and help prevent the development of further injuries.
Soft Orthotics can also help to reduce strain and increase shock absorption when used in combination with other orthotic devices. Soft Orthotics can be used in combination with traditional hard orthotics to provide the best possible support for an individual’s feet and lower body.
Rigid Orthotics
Rigid Orthotics are a type of orthotic device used to help support and provide stability to the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. They are typically made from a hard, non-flexible material such as plastic or carbon fiber.
Rigid Orthotics are commonly used when there is a need for a more supportive and stable orthotic device, such as for those with foot and ankle deformities or people with very weak muscles in their feet or ankles.
Rigid orthotics are used to help improve balance, reduce pain, and provide more stability with activities such as walking and running. They can be custom-made to the individual’s foot to provide a more comfortable fit and optimal biomechanics, which reduces the risk of developing more serious and debilitating foot and ankle conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, arthritis, and flat feet.
Semi-Rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotics are a type of device designed to correct foot deformities and to improve the biomechanics of the foot and lower limb. Semi-rigid orthotics are typically made from a combination of rigid and flexible materials, such as carbon fiber, leather, plastic, and/or rubber. The combination of materials allows for flexibility and support that is tailored to the individual patient’s needs.
Semi-rigid orthotics are often used to treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, shin splints, and bunions. The device helps to reduce the pressure on the affected areas and redistribute the stress to other areas of the foot. The semi-rigid orthotic also helps to correct alignment issues in the foot and lower limb.
What Do Custom Orthotics Treat?
Custom orthotics treat a wide variety of physical ailments. These specialized shoe inserts provide additional support and cushioning to the feet and lower body, reducing pain and improving the overall function of an individual’s body. Orthotics are custom fit to the individual’s feet to treat conditions such as:
- Arthritis
- Ankle pain
- Back pain
- Bunions
- Bursitis
- Foot conditions caused by diabetes
- Flat feet
- Hammertoes
- Heel spurs
- High arches
- Hip pain
- Injuries
- Knee pain
- Plantar fasciitis
What’s the Difference Between Custom Orthotics and Store-Bought?
The use of orthotics benefits individuals with foot, ankle, and lower leg conditions. They provide extra support to the feet and help correct misalignments of the feet and lower limbs. But when it comes to purchasing orthotics, there is a big difference between custom orthotics and store-bought orthotics. Custom orthotics are custom-made for an individual’s unique needs, while store-bought orthotics are mass-produced and not tailored to a specific individual’s foot structure and needs.
How Often Should I Replace My Custom Orthotics?
Knowing when to replace custom orthotics is a tricky question, since everyone’s feet are different, and their needs vary. However, replacing your custom orthotics is an important part of maintaining their effectiveness and ensuring healthy feet.
Talk to one of our foot specialists to learn how often you should replace custom orthotics. We will provide all the information you need to make an informed decision about your custom orthotic solution.
Contact Us Today
If you are tired of suffering from ankle, foot, or toe pain, then make an appointment to meet with one of our foot experts today and get the help you need! Richardson Podiatry Center is ready to help you with any foot or ankle condition that’s giving you trouble.
Custom orthotics might be the best non-surgical treatment option, so let Dr. Haddad or Dr. Reister create a pair for you. Start on your path to pain-free living by calling (972) 690-5374 or filling out our online contact form to request an appointment at our Richardson office.