An orthotic is an insert worn inside your shoe to alter the position of your foot, realigning it with your ankle and leg.
There are two kinds of orthotics: prefabricated (or over-the-counter) orthotics and custom-made (or prescribed) orthotics.
Prefabricated orthotics support the arch of your foot and help spread weight more evenly along the sole, so your foot is gently and consistently directed into the correct position for walking, running and standing. Foot Health Clinic stocks and recommends SUPERfeet, a range of high quality prefabricated orthotics suitable for a wide range of foot types.
Custom-made orthotics are individually prescribed to correct an abnormal or irregular walking pattern. They are more expensive than pre-fabricated orthotics and will vary in price, because they require a comprehensive gait analysis and biomechanical assessment by your podiatrist and are manufactured in a laboratory from either a plaster or a 3D laser cast of your foot.
Podiatrists prescribe custom-made orthotics for several benefits, including:
- relieving pain caused by overuse injuries including plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, shin splints, patellofemoral pain syndrome and posterior tibial tendon dysfunction;
- reducing the long-term effects of trauma injuries including ankle sprains and fractures;
- preventing or halting the development of foot deformities including bunions and hammertoes;
- preventing or treating problems in children including flat feet, intoed gait, growth plate inflammation, Sever’s disease and Osgood-Schlatter disease;
- preventing or managing foot ulcers in people with diabetes;
- relieving foot fatigue in people with arthritis;
- reducing injury occurrence and increasing performance in people active in sports.
