Orthotics Specialist

The TOM-CAT™ Digital Foot Scanner is a 21st century Digital Foot Scanner that comes completely assembled and configured for use. It includes 3-D scanning software that allows the patient to see every contour of their feet on the included notebook computer in brilliant color. Doctors are able to click and scan their patients’ feet in a matter of seconds, verify the digital image immediately and then then send the order to the lab of their choice. There is no preparation mess, no setting time, no removal process. Just a click, that quick, and you’re done. The TOM-CAT™ scanner removed the mess and the hassle of traditional plaster or fiberglass casting techniques for custom orthotics.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics devices are worn to support, immobilize, or guide a specific part of your body to facilitate healing, improve function, or manage pain. When worn during injury rehabilitation, orthotics can help you maintain proper alignment for a more controlled range of motion.    

Orthotic devices can be used to stabilize and support any part of your body, including your spine, neck, shoulders, and knees virtually. Custom-fitted foot orthotics are an effective way to relieve foot and heel pain caused by a variety of conditions, including:

• Achilles tendonitis
• Plantar fasciitis 
• Heel spurs and bunions
• Osteoarthritis and gout 
• Diabetic foot ulcers and nerve damage 

In addition to relieving pain and improving function, foot orthotics prescribed by Dr. Coletta can also help control biomechanical alignment and correct or accommodate structural deformities, including hammertoe.

How Are Shoe Inserts Different From Custom Orthotics?

Shoe inserts are the pre-packaged, mass-produced arch supports, insoles, heel liners, and foot cushions available at your nearest big-box retailer or online. Although these familiar products can cushion your feet and provide extra comfort and support, they can’t correct biomechanical foot problems or address chronic foot conditions.   

Prescription orthotics, on the other hand, are custom-designed according to the way you walk and are made to fit the exact contours of your feet. There are two main categories of prescription foot orthotics Dr. Coletta offers, functional and accommodative orthotics.

Functional Orthotics

Usually made of semi-rigid materials like plastic or graphite, these devices are designed to control abnormal motion. They may be worn to relieve pain caused by faulty foot mechanics, or they may be used to treat injuries like tendonitis or shin splints.

Accommodative Orthotics

Accommodative orthotics, made of softer materials for extra cushion and support can help with a wide range of uncomfortable foot conditions, including diabetic foot ulcers and painful calluses.  

How Are Custom Orthotics Prescribed?

To determine your foot orthotic prescription, Dr. Coletta needs to perform a comprehensive evaluation of your feet, ankles, and legs.

This evaluation includes discussing your health history, current medical conditions, and any symptoms you may have, as well as analyzing the way you walk and evaluating the wear patterns on your shoes.     

To ensure your orthotics are as precise as possible, Dr. Coletta also takes various measurements and uses advanced technology to capture separate 3D images of each of your feet.    

If you have chronic foot pain, don’t wait another day to get relief. Call Dr. Coletta’s office or schedule an appointment online to find out how custom foot orthotics can help you.