Custom Orthotics

If you’re looking to support your feet due to an injury or otherwise, you generally have two options: Custom Orthotics and Over-The-Counter Shoe Inserts. Custom orthotics offer miraculous benefits for various issues, but it is important to understand how they work so that you can make an informed decision about your foot comfort and overall well-being.

If your feet aren’t well supported, you can experience aches, pains, imbalances, and long-term discomfort. When there is adequate cushioning, your body is better able maintain its posture. Whether you’re an athlete, someone on your feet all day who might be prone to a work injury, or just looking for general foot comfort, these devices can help you feel better and prevent future problems. 

What are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are medical devices prescribed by a podiatrist, orthopedist, or physical therapist specializing in foot and ankle care. These are designed specifically for the unique structure of your foot based on a detailed analysis and fitting. Generally, a healthcare professional would take a cast or impressions of your feet or 3-dimensional scans, allowing the orthotics to mold to the contours of your feet and correct imbalances. These orthotics are durable and long-lasting, helping to improve your posture, reduce pain, and enhance your gait over time.

If you’re experiencing discomfort in your back, hips, knees, and feet, or have bunions, flat feet, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, diabetic foot ulcers, and other medical conditions, this custom-made device is for you. It is made of premium materials, ensuring a precise fit and offering targeted relief. It slightly alters the angles at which your foot strikes a surface while walking or running. This provides stability and reduces strain by evenly distributing pressure and addressing several structural and functional issues.

When you walk into AHS, our experienced team will carefully analyze the range of motion of your foot as well as the alignment of your body. This helps us understand the abnormalities you may be experiencing. We then take an impression of your foot, including the arch measurement, foot length, and pressure points, which is sent to a lab along with the detailed prescription we provide. Your orthotics are then crafted accordingly.

Generally, prescription orthotics come in two types: Functional Orthotics and Accommodative Orthotics. Where functional orthotics are semi-rigid and can address issues such as foot pain, shin splints, or tendinitis, accommodative orthotics are soft and cushioned, supporting diabetic ulcers or painful calluses. Only high-quality materials are used for providing support where it is needed most. You’ll be able to observe improved foot function, and you can also adjust them to meet your changing needs.

What Are Shoe Inserts?

A shoe insert is a mass-produced, non-prescription foot support you can easily get at a shoe store or pharmacy. It usually comes in a standard size and shape, offering basic cushioning and support for some relief. These are readily available and inexpensive compared to custom orthotics, and helpful for mild, non-radiating discomforts.

They are inserted into the shoes and have a shock-absorbing, gel or foam-based base, or they can sometimes be a bit more rigid. You can also find custom-fit inserts that are a step up from generic versions, conforming to your foot’s shape, but are still not as precise as custom orthotics. They can also be referred to as foot cushions, heel pads, heel cups, and heel liners.

Regardless of whichever over-the-counter (OTC) insert you choose, they generally provide only basic arch support, cushioning, relief from heel pain, or prevent your feet from rubbing against the shoes. If you have a diagnosed medical issue that requires a customized solution tailored to your specific needs, shoe inserts will generally provide you the required support or relief. For example someone with diabetes and circulation issues would again not benefit from shoe inserts as the inserts do not provide the protection and support required to protect their feet. Shoe inserts offer limited support and wear out more quickly. While you can purchase these for between $20–$60, which is quite inexpensive compared to the custom orthotics price, they likely won’t last as long, which will increase the total amount you spend over the years versus getting the proper custom orthotics right away.

Which Is Better?

There are many products available to help you feel more comfortable in your shoes. Ultimately, the biomechanics of your feet play a major role in determining the type of foot support you may require. The structure of your bones, muscles, and tendons, how these work together, and the severity of your foot condition help make a suitable choice.

While custom orthotics require a prescription to address mild to severe foot-related imbalances, store-bought inserts are easily accessible, available online, and best suited for most budgets. These can provide general support for temporary discomfort and have limited efficacy. Custom orthotics, on the other hand, aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution and address individual foot biomechanics, making it easier for you to stay active.

Consult AHS Clinic for Help

No two people can have similar feet. Even your own two feet can have varying requirements. The experienced team at the AHS (Advanced Health Solutions) Clinic identifies your unique foot type and helps you maintain balance and proper posture with the right solutions. He carefully listens to your concerns and gathers all the necessary information to provide the best care.

Our clinic also offers top-notch chiropractic and physical therapy for biomechanical correction. If you’ve tried these therapies as well as OTC shoe inserts and didn’t get the results you expected, you may be a good candidate for custom orthotics. Connect today for a comprehensive evaluation with Advanced Health Solutions. We will work with you one-on-one to develop a personalized treatment plan for your specific needs.