Orthotics

What are orthotics?

Orthotics are pads or cushions shaped to fit inside your shoes. When you wear orthotics with your shoes, they offer a number of benefits, including:

• Supporting your foot and ankle
• Moving your foot into proper alignment
• Preventing or correcting foot deformities
• Improving foot and ankle function
• Relieving foot and ankle pain
• Reducing stress on your feet

You’ve probably seen orthotics at the store. Also called arch supports, shoe inserts, or insoles, these over-the-counter orthotics are designed to fit generic shoe beds. They’re also made with lower-quality materials and only last six months to a year.

The podiatrists at Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey provide custom orthotics, which are designed to fit your unique foot shape. These orthotics are made specifically for you and match the precise contours of your feet. In addition to providing greater comfort, custom orthotics last 5-10 years.

Why would I need orthotics?

Your podiatrist at Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey may recommend orthotics after they thoroughly evaluate your feet, ankles, and legs. Orthotics are a common treatment for many foot and ankle conditions, including:

• Bunions
• Flat feet
• Corns and calluses
• Hammertoe
• Morton’s neuroma
• Plantar fasciitis
• Heel spurs

Orthotics may also help people with diabetic neuropathy protect their feet from problems like wounds and diabetic foot ulcers.

How can I get custom orthotics?

If you have a foot problem you think may improve with orthotics, the team at Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey can help. They begin with a review of your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam of your feet, ankles, and legs. This may include observing your walking or running patterns.

Then, they prescribe the best type of orthotic device for your specific condition. They may use advanced technology to make a computerized, 3D image of your foot. They use these images and measurements to create your custom orthotics.

If needed, they can create multiple pairs of orthotics to fit different types of footwear, like running shoes and dress shoes.

To learn more about orthotics and get started on the path to healthier feet, call Family Foot and Ankle Center of South Jersey or book an appointment online today.