What Are Orthotics

Podiatric orthotics, by definition, are custom-made insoles that are worn inside the shoe to assist the treatment of a number of foot-related conditions. An orthotic can be as simple as a raise for the heel or custom-support for the ankle; regardless of the purpose, orthotics are primarily used to improve negative symptoms associated with the back, hips, knees and feet.

The type of orthotic that your podiatrist prescribes you will be based on the problem that you are experiencing. Some of the most common reasons to fit orthotics are if an individual is suffering from a neuroma, arthritis or a painful flat foot. They are ideal for adjusting the way you walk to increase balance and comfort, along with assisting in redistributing continuous pressure away from the problem area. In some cases, young children are prescribed orthotics merely to support their development and strengthen their legs and feet.

Orthotics Services

Each patient is an individual with unique requirements meaning that a full assessment will need to be carried out to determine the most effective orthotic to support your needs. The podiatrist will begin by spending time to get to know your issues and why you require professional help, along with go through your medical records and understanding how you walk. A full evaluation of your feet, legs and back will be completed, paying careful attention to the strength of the muscles, the blood supply to the feet and the nervous system. Once thoroughly assessed, your foot will then be measured for an orthotic, and a prescription will be provided with all information required to construct a bespoke insole. The final orthotic can be fitted to your shoes, and you will be advised on how often you will need to utilise the insole.

What Type Of Shoe Is Best To Raise?

MK Feet Podiatric Clinic recognises that wearing an orthotic can be somewhat tedious, particularly if it means that patients are forced to wear shoes they view as rather unappealing. Investing in a shoe that is not only comfortable and supportive of the problem area is made considerably better when the style perfectly complements the patient. With this in mind, our podiatrists work closely with a number of suppliers who enable us to provide a variety of shoe-types; all of which can be raised and fitted with orthotics, including the following:

  • Trainers
  • Sandals
  • Mules
  • High Heels
  • Clogs
  • School Shoes

Treatments

Through utilising the Optogait gait analysis system, our podiatrists are able to assess the condition of patient’s, identify requirements and determine an accurate diagnosis. In doing this, bespoke, made to measure orthotics can then be constructed; including the following:

Temporary or Permanent

Depending on your condition, our podiatrists will recommend the use of orthotics on a short or long-term basis.

Casted or Scanned

Measurements for orthotics can either be taken through a traditional plaster casting or advanced 3D scanners.

Off The Shelf Insoles

‘Off the shelf’ insoles relate to orthotics that are ready-made to fit a generic foot type as opposed to bespoke.