What are Custom Foot Orthotics?
Custom foot orthotics are prescription devices worn inside footwear to help manage how load and pressure are distributed through the foot and lower limb. They may be considered for problems such as heel or arch pain, recurring overuse injuries, painful flat feet and some biomechanical concerns.
Orthotics are not required for every foot problem. Before recommending them, your podiatrist should first understand your symptoms, activity, footwear, foot posture and how the lower limb is functioning. The aim is to prescribe an orthotic only when it is likely to form a useful part of the overall management plan.
At Podiatry Care Gawler, custom orthotics are prescribed following a clinical and biomechanical assessment. Where appropriate, a 3D scan of the feet is used together with the assessment findings to develop an individual prescription.
If custom orthotics are appropriate, your podiatrist will develop a prescription based on the assessment findings, your footwear, activity level and treatment goals. The orthotics can then be reviewed and adjusted if needed once you have started wearing them.
Orthotics May Be Considered For:
What happens during an orthotics assessment?
Your podiatrist will ask about your symptoms, activity and footwear before examining the foot and lower limb. The assessment may include joint movement, foot posture, strength, walking or running gait and the way your footwear is interacting with your feet. These findings help determine whether orthotics are appropriate and what the prescription should aim to achieve.
How are custom orthotics made?
If custom orthotics are recommended, a 3D scan can be taken to capture the shape of your feet. The scan is only one part of the process — the final prescription is based on the clinical assessment, the condition being managed, your footwear and the amount of support or modification required.
What should I expect when I start wearing them?
New orthotics often require a short period of adjustment. Your podiatrist will explain how to gradually introduce them into your footwear and when to return for review. If pressure, discomfort or footwear-fit problems occur, the orthotics can be reassessed and adjusted where appropriate.
