What are Custom Orthotics and Are They Right for You?

Discover how they work and what ailments they can help

If you have been experiencing foot pain, you’ve probably looked into what you can do to get some relief. The last time you were in the supermarket, perhaps while (gingerly) walking around the pharmacy area, you checked out the insoles, cushions, and other foot products they carry. And while these items may offer a bit of comfort – as you might have discovered – it was probably pretty short lived.

Over-the-counter items can work well for some foot issues, but not usually for extensive and prolonged pain. To find the solution you need, it could be time to think about custom orthotics. These are devices made specifically for your feet that are designed to match their contours and the way you move. Custom orthotics are only made after your feet, ankles, and legs are examined and evaluated. 

Not all orthotics work the same way. Some are meant to provide support while others are used to adjust the angle of the foot. Custom orthotics can also help improve balance and better distribute foot pressure.

Signs you may need custom orthotics

There are a variety of indicators to look out for that will let you know that something’s not right with your body and that custom orthotics could be the answer, including:

Pain

While an obvious symptom, it’s not just painful feet you need to be aware of. If your knees, hips, or back are hurting, this could be due to misalignment, which isn’t going to fix itself.

Degenerative changes

As we age, unfortunately things can begin to break down a little. You may have arthritis, fallen arches, loss of fat pads, or other conditions related to getting older.

Injury 

If you’ve recently suffered an injury to your feet or legs and the pain or discomfort is lingering, things could have shifted without you realizing it.

A specific diagnosis 

If a doctor has told you that you have a condition such as heel spurs, shin splints, or plantar fasciitis, custom orthotics can be a very good treatment option.

Starting the custom orthotics process

When it comes to any sort of pain, you definitely don’t want to ignore it. Chances are it will only get worse over time. This is why you should talk to a podiatrist as soon as possible. After you get a complete exam, your doctor will be able to evaluate the situation and decide what treatment is best. If custom orthotics are prescribed, you will be measured and they will be fabricated just for you.

While you may have gotten used to constant aches in your feet and legs, they are not something you have to live with. To find out what the problem is and what can be done for it, get in touch with the office of Dr. Nina Coletta. We want to relieve your discomfort and help you get back to a pain-free life. Call us at 954-452.4590, fill out our online form, or send us an email at info@ninacolettadpm.com.

Dr. Nina L. Coletta has been practicing Podiatry for over twenty years. Her practice remains on the cutting edge of advancements in Podiatric Medicine, providing state-of-the-art laser treatments, three-dimensional technology to construct custom orthotics and braces, and in-house arterial and venous studies of the lower extremity. From pediatrics to geriatrics, her staff provides superior care in a warm, welcoming environment.