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Orthotics

  • Introduction
  • Treatment

Introduction

Orthotics are shoe inserts that are used to correct an irregular walking pattern.  They perform functions that make standing, walking, and running more comfortable and efficient, by altering slightly the angles at which the foot strikes a walking or running surface.
 
Orthotics differ from commercially made devices, such as cushioned heel cups or insoles for shoes.  These are sold over-the-counter in drug stores.  The custom made orthotics, however, are devices made specifically to meet individual needs.  Doctors of podiatric medicine and orthopedic surgeons often prescribe orthotics as a conservative treatment for many foot problems or as a method of control after certain types of foot surgery and their use is a highly successful, practical approach to treatment.
 
Orthotics come in various forms and are constructed of various materials.  All are used for improving foot function and minimizing stress forces that could ultimately cause foot pain or deformity.  Orthotics are made by taking an impression of the foot called a cast.  The impressions in the cast duplicate any misalignments in the foot.  Then the orthotic laboratory corrects the misalignments with compensation and stabilization techniques.  The finished orthotic is then put into the patient's shoe and assists in keeping the foot properly aligned.  In some cases, the orthotic may have padding to cushion the foot against the weight of the body.
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Treatment

Foot orthotics fall into three broad categories: those that primarily attempt to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in nature, and those that combine functional control and protection.
 
Rigid Orthotics
 
The rigid orthotic device, designed to control function, may be made of a firm material such as plastic or carbon fiber, and is used primarily for walking or dress shoes.  It is generally fabricated from a Plaster of Paris mold of the individual foot.  The finished product extends along the sole of the heel to the ball or toes of the foot.  It is mostly worn in closed shoes with a heel height of less than two inches. Because of the materials involved, very little alteration in shoe size is required.
 
Rigid orthotics are designed to control motion in two major foot joints, which are directly below the ankle joint.  These devices last a long time, do not change shape, and are hard to break.  Aches, and pains in the legs, lower back and thighs may be due to abnormal function of the foot, or a slight difference in the legs length.  In these cases, orthotics may improve or eliminate these symptoms.

Soft Orthotics
 
Soft Orthotics help to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots.  They are usually made of soft, compressible materials, and may be molded by the action of the foot in walking, or fashioned over a plaster impression of the foot.  Also worn against the sole of the foot, it usually extends from the heel past the ball of the foot to include the toes.
 
The advantage of any soft orthotic device is that it is easily adjusted to changing weight-bearing forces.  The disadvantage is that it must be periodically replaced.  It works particularly well for arthritic and grossly deformed feet where there is a loss of protective fatty tissue on the side of the foot.  It is also widely used in the care of the diabetic foot.  Because it is compressible, the soft orthotic is usually bulkier and may require more room in shoes, or even prescription footwear.
 
Semirigid Orthotics
 
The semirigid orthotic allows for dynamic balance of the foot while walking or participating in sports.  This orthotic is an aid to the athlete.  Each sport has its own demand and each sport orthotic needs to be made correctly with the sport and the athlete in mind.  This dynamic orthotic helps guide the foot through proper functions, allowing the muscles and tendons to perform more efficiently.  The classic, semi rigid orthotic is constructed of layers of soft material, reinforced with rigid materials.
 
Orthotics for Children
 
Orthotic devices are often used in the treatment of children with foot deformities, and are very effective.  Most podiatric physicians recommend that children with these deformities be placed in orthotics not long after they begin to walk in order to stabilize the foot.  The devices can be put directly into a standard shoe, or an athletic shoe.
 
Usually, the orthotics need  to be replaced when the child’s foot has grown two sizes. Different types of orthotics may also be needed as the child’s foot develops, and changes shape.
 
The length of time a child needs orthotics varies a lot, depending on how serious the deformity is and how soon the corrective process begins.  Who wears Orthotics? Perfect feet are very rare, and therefore just about anyone can benefit from orthotics.  Orthotics are especially helpful in treating over pronation, or flat feet.  They can also prevent and help improve many of the foot problems that cause discomfort in otherwise healthy people.  Think of it in terms of wearing eyeglasses.  Both eyeglasses and orthotics adjust bodily imperfections that prevent people from functioning at their full physical potential.  In both cases, a physician will do a complete examination and prescribe the proper amount of correction.
 
Most people can achieve some benefit from an orthotic.  There are several symptoms that may indicate misalignment of the feet.  You may be a candidate for orthotics if:
• One side of the sole of your shoe wears out faster than the other;
• You sprain your ankle often;
• You have chronic knee, heel or lower back pain;
• Your shins hurt;
• Your toes are not straight;
• Your feet point inward or outward when you walk; or
• Your heels hurt when you first get up in the morning
Your feet should not hurt. Pain is the body's way of warning you that something is not right.  If you ignore pain, whatever is causing it could get worse. 
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Copyright ©  - iHealthSpot Interactive - www.iHealthSpot.com

This information is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It should not be used in place of an individual consultation or examination or replace the advice of your health care professional and should not be relied upon to determine diagnosis or course of treatment.

The iHealthSpot patient education library was written collaboratively by the iHealthSpot editorial team which includes Senior Medical Authors Dr. Mary Car-Blanchard, OTD/OTR/L and Valerie K. Clark, and the following editorial advisors: Steve Meadows, MD, Ernie F. Soto, DDS, Ronald J. Glatzer, MD, Jonathan Rosenberg, MD, Christopher M. Nolte, MD, David Applebaum, MD, Jonathan M. Tarrash, MD, and Paula Soto, RN/BSN. This content complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information. The library commenced development on September 1, 2005 with the latest update/addition on February 16, 2022. For information on iHealthSpot’s other services including medical website design, visit www.iHealthSpot.com.

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Highly recommend Lou Ann Albano! She is very compassionate, friendly, skillful, attentive, provides excellent care and really listens to you. You are in great hands!

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Susana Tudda

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I love Ms. Patel and the girls in the office. I rarely have to wait long. I have been going to this office since it was JayCare in 2015. I have never had a problem with any of the doctors or PAs that I have seen. Ms. Patel actually takes time with me and listens to my concerns. I already recommend her to everyone I know.

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Dr Fundora is absolutely incredible, very knowledgeable and caring and her entire staff is amazing too, highly recommended. The receptionists and even the security guards are extremely helpful and friendly, they always remember me when I come in and they’ve all always gone above and beyond to make each experience as easy and stress free as possible.

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Dr Latt and his staff are AMAZING. Dr Latt takes his time to listen to you and explain everything In detail! The lobby looks amazing, made my heart feel the Spirit of Christmas. My mom was diagnosed with liver failure on Christmas Day and passed 10 days later, 2 years ago and I have really struggled to feel the spirit of Christmas since then. The minute I opened the door and walked into the building pure joy flooded my soul. Thanks to the Staff at Palm Medical for the Amazing Holiday Scene May God Bless you and your families always.

Mrs. Asher

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5 Stars Review

Dr Latt and his staff are AMAZING. Dr Latt takes his time to listen to you and explain everything In detail! The lobby looks amazing, made my heart feel the Spirit of Christmas. My mom was diagnosed with liver failure on Christmas Day and passed 10 days later, 2 years ago and I have really struggled to feel the spirit of Christmas since then. The minute I opened the door and walked into the building pure joy flooded my soul. Thanks to the Staff at Palm Medical for the Amazing Holiday Scene May God Bless you and your families always.

Mrs. Asher

5 Stars Review

Highly recommend Lou Ann Albano! She is very compassionate, friendly, skillful, attentive, provides excellent care and really listens to you. You are in great hands!

Deanne S.

5 Stars Review

I just wish I could quit forgetting my blood work appointment, but other than that everything is fine. I have been getting great care from Dr. Renan and the office staff is excellent.

Jennifer D.

5 Stars Review

The staff greets me with a smile and by name. There's never a long wait, and Dr. Min is the PC that I have ever had. 15 yrs and counting!

Rose R.

5 Stars Review

I am very happy to be a Patient at Dr Aristides Martinez Office, my appointment yesterday with Andrea was far above expected, she dedicated about one hour to talk with me about all my pains and my concerns. It was like if I would've been with a Psychologist, I came out of her office with all my questions answered and sure that I am in very good hands. I thanks God that I started coming to this Clinic.

Susana Tudda

5 Stars Review

I love Ms. Patel and the girls in the office. I rarely have to wait long. I have been going to this office since it was JayCare in 2015. I have never had a problem with any of the doctors or PAs that I have seen. Ms. Patel actually takes time with me and listens to my concerns. I already recommend her to everyone I know.

Kayleigh Ray

5 Stars Review

Since moving to Florida three years ago I’ve seen many doctors and just didn’t have a good feeling. Once I walked into Dr Shah’s office from the front desk staff to the doctor himself was a wonderful experience. You are always given their undivided attention and Dr. Shah is Very thorough in his exams. I give 5 stars to this office

Annette Gambino

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Dr Fundora is absolutely incredible, very knowledgeable and caring and her entire staff is amazing too, highly recommended. The receptionists and even the security guards are extremely helpful and friendly, they always remember me when I come in and they’ve all always gone above and beyond to make each experience as easy and stress free as possible.

Louie Blanche

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We love and trust Dr Cruz. Also their staff is wonderful they’re always happy & have a smile when you go in so it makes you feel better when you’re not feeling so good. I would highly recommend them to everyone and as a matter fact when I changed my insurance this year I made sure he was on the list. Sincerely, A happy patient

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