Orthotics are inserts or devices worn inside footwear to provide support, correct foot abnormalities, and alleviate discomfort or pain associated with various foot conditions. They can be made from various materials like foam, rubber, plastic, or even metal, depending on the specific needs of the individual. Orthotics are often prescribed by chiropodists or other healthcare professionals to address issues such as flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, bunions, arthritis, and other biomechanical imbalances in the feet and lower limbs. They can help improve alignment, distribute pressure more evenly, and enhance overall foot function, leading to reduced pain and improved mobility.
What are Custom-Made Orthotics?
Custom-made foot orthotics are crafted individually for the patient after a thorough evaluation of their feet and lower limbs by a footcare specialist like a Chiropodist. These custom foot orthotics are created using a three-dimensional representation of the patient’s foot and are constructed from raw materials. Their purpose is to cater to the patient’s distinct requirements and address their specific concerns.
What are over-the-counter Orthotics?
In contrast to custom foot orthotics, standard over-the-counter options are manufactured in bulk and available for purchase at pharmacies, grocery stores, and various retail outlets.
What are the pros and cons of Custom-Made Orthotics and Over-The-Counter Orthotics?
Custom Made Orthotics
PROS
- Tailored Fit: Custom-made orthotics are crafted specifically for the individual’s foot shape and biomechanics, ensuring optimal support and comfort.
- Targeted Correction: They can address specific foot conditions, such as
over-pronation or high arches, with precise corrections tailored to the
patient’s needs. - Enhanced Effectiveness: Custom orthotics are often more effective at relieving pain and improving foot function compared to over-the-counter options.
- Longevity: They are typically made from durable materials and can last for a longer period with proper care and maintenance.
CONS
- Cost: Custom-made orthotics can be expensive, especially in comparison to their OTC counterparts
- Time-Consuming Process: The process of obtaining custom orthotics
involves multiple appointments and measurements, which can take time. - Adjustment Period: Patients may require some time to get used to wearing
custom orthotics, and adjustments may be needed to achieve the desired
comfort and effectiveness.
Over-the-Counter Orthotics
PROS
- Accessibility: Over-the-counter orthotics are readily available at
pharmacies, retail stores, and online, making them convenient to
purchase without the need for a prescription or specialized fitting. - Affordability: They are generally more affordable than custom-made
orthotics, making them a cost-effective option for individuals on a
budget. - Immediate Use: Over-the-counter orthotics can be used right away without the need for a waiting period or multiple appointments.
CONS
- Limited Customization: Over-the-counter orthotics are not tailored to
the individual’s specific foot shape and biomechanics, which may result
in less precise support and correction. - Less Effective: They may not provide the same level of pain relief or
improvement in foot function as custom-made orthotics, especially for
more severe foot conditions. - Durability: Over-the-counter orthotics may not be as durable as custom-made ones and may need to be replaced more frequently.
- Potential Discomfort: Some over-the-counter orthotics may cause
discomfort or exacerbate existing foot issues if they do not fit
properly or provide adequate support.
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Winter is on its way out and spring is almost upon us. With the warmer change in weather, we shake off our desire to hibernate and become more active, doing activities we haven’t done in months! However, we sometimes rush into things too quickly and can put too much pressure on our feet, leading to the development of various foot problems. Orthotics might be the answer for you as they can help change the way your foot makes contact with the ground and can take pressure off high-pressure areas in the foot.
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are insoles that you use inside your shoes that help rectify biomechanical problems of the foot. They are usually made of a combination of rubber, metal, plastic, leather, or any other synthetic material. Our feet have so many muscles, bones, and joints that abnormal biomechanics of how they’re moving can result in numerous foot problems along with pain in your knee, lower back, hip or leg.
Also read, Physiotherapy Clinics in Mississuaga
How can Orthotics correct foot conditions?
- Orthotics help balance pressure placed on the feet by redistributing the weight appropriately
- They help stabilize the heel
- Support the arch of the feet
- Provides cushioning to delicate and inflamed areas of the feet that arise from too much walking, jogging, running, etc.
There are generally two options when it comes to selecting orthotics: over-the-counter orthotics and custom-made orthotics. Over-the-counter orthotics are available at your local pharmacy and big box store and they can be used with your regular shoes to correct trivial problems. However, because they are prefab, generalized products, there is a possibility that they might make your foot pain worse due to it not being the right kind of support that you need. Custom made orthotics work best because they are tailor-made to correct the problems specific to your feet. Check out our earlier blog on the most popular kinds of Orthotics for further detail.
Also read, Physiotherapy Clinic in Oakville
Here’s a tip
Orthotics can still benefit you even if you don’t suffer from any foot issues but are an active participant in sports. If your foot is dealing with stress and impact, or if you have recently gained weight, orthotics will help you walk better!
Put your best foot forward and in the right direction!
We at Triangle Physiotherapy will quite literally help you get back on your feet! Our Chiropodist can advise you on how to look after your feet and what type of shoes or orthotics to opt for. Book an appointment with our Chiropodist today at any of our 6 clinics located across the GTA: Etobicoke, Oakville, Mississauga, North York, Toronto (King Street West) and Yonge Street. If you have any questions regarding any kind of foot conditions, please call or email us and we will be happy to help you!