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Custom orthotics are specially made devices that you wear inside your shoes, and they are designed to align the foot and ankle. While many people use shoe inserts for comfort, podiatrists craft them from a precise mold of your feet, which matches your specific foot structure. Here is more information about different aspects of custom orthotics:
Added Arch Support
Certain foot types may benefit from added arch support. The human foot has three arches, and these arches help distribute body weight across the feet. Because a custom orthotic is built from an impression of your foot, it fits your specific arch. Your arches may be high, low, or somewhere in between.
The device provides contact with the arch, which can help redistribute pressure along the bottom of the foot. Different materials offer varying levels of rigidity. To solve this, a practitioner can help you select the appropriate type for your needs.
Arch support is a standard feature of custom orthotics. Support may be firm or flexible, but the goal is to conform to your individual arch shape. This fit is what separates a custom orthotic from an over-the-counter insert.
Extra Padding
Some custom orthotics incorporate extra padding for cushioning. Padding can be made from various materials, each offering a different feel and level of shock absorption. Some devices use gel, while others might use foam. The choice of material depends on individual requirements and activity levels. A device with extra padding can offer an additional layer of cushioning during daily activities.
Different activities place different demands on your feet. In some cases, running places more stress on the feet than walking does. A custom orthotic can be designed with these activities in mind. The amount and placement of padding are determined when the orthotic is created. This allows for targeted cushioning where it is most needed.
Custom Insoles
Insoles are another feature of custom orthotics. They are not the same as prefabricated insoles you might find in a store. A practitioner takes a 3D image or mold of your foot to create the device. These insoles are then manufactured in a lab using specific materials.
The process involves a few key steps:
- Evaluating your foot structure and gait.
- Creating a precise impression of your feet.
- Manufacturing the device.
This process is detailed, and it produces an insole that is specific to your feet. Because they are made just for you, they contour precisely to your foot’s unique shape, unlike generic options.
Corrected Gait
Gait refers to your walking style. An analysis of your gait helps identify patterns in your walking motion. Practitioners observe how your feet and ankles move when you walk, and this observation is part of the evaluation for custom orthotics. A custom orthotic aims to support the foot through the gait cycle. It does this by stabilizing the foot in a specific position. Based on your gait pattern, the device may provide support as your foot moves from heel strike to toe off.
Try Custom Orthotics Today
Orthotics are medical devices podiatrists create from a mold of your feet. They aim to match your specific foot structure, and they may have features like added arch support or extra padding. If you are seeking more information about how custom orthotics might work for you, a professional evaluation is the next step. Contact a qualified practitioner to schedule an appointment and discuss your options.
