Custom Orthotics
Physical Therapy Through Custom Orthotics
Reoccurring pain about the soles of your feet, ankles, shins, knees, hips or back could give rise for orthotics consideration. (Excessive pronation and excessive supination are the most frequent problems leading to this treatment recommendation.)
Custom orthotics are biomechanically designed platforms that slip into one's shoes. They are intended to correct the biomechanics' of an individual's lower extremity in order to reduce excessive counter productive stress and to optimize one's ability to walk, hike, run, ski, and participate in sport. The biomechanical changes occur by altering the relative position and function of the bones about the feet. Orthotics should not be confused with inner soles or arch supports that do not typically address ones individual needs and generally provide for simple cushioning.
Receipt of custom orthotics occurs in a four-step process. The examination starts with a patient history and evaluation including analysis of gait. Measurements are recorded in both weight and non-weight bearing postures in order to assure the optimal biomechanical correction. Phase two involves our therapists securing a plaster impression of the feet. Phase three involves the fabrication of the orthotics by a professional laboratory. The final phase is the fitting and break-in period of the new orthotics.
There is wide array or orthotics types available for our therapists to chose from once the evaluation and casting processes are completed. Virtually there are orthotics for every type of shoe, however they are not always interchangeable from dress to sport or recreational shoes. (Additional orthotics can be purchased at a significantly reduced rate if the evaluation and casting process isn't again repeated)
The following considerations are made when prescribing the type of orthotics:
- Type and amount of correction required
- Type of activity one intends to use them for
- Type of shoe one wishes to use them in
- Amount of weight they will be supporting
Conditions responding well to Orthotics therapy:
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Heel pain
- Shin splints
- Metatarsalgia
- Knee pains
- Hip pains
- Lower back pain
