Orthotics

What are orthotics?

Orthotics are custom-designed supports that fit inside your shoes. They can treat a range of painful foot problems, helping you walk more comfortably and avoid putting stress on your feet. They also help correct alignment problems with your ankles and lower legs.

Orthotics are shaped to fit your feet precisely, with adjustments made to the shape that lessen pressure or provide support to specific parts of your foot. In this way, orthotics help reduce pain and recover lost function caused by problems with your foot structure.

You can buy over-the-counter shoe inserts and other products that are helpful for certain conditions. However, as these are mass-produced, they can't fit the precise contours of your feet in the same way as custom orthotics.

What conditions can orthotics treat?

A number of painful foot conditions are treatable with orthotics, including:

• Bursitis
• Ulcers
• Plantar fasciitis
• Arthritis
• Post-surgical pain
• Flat feet
• Bunions

Orthotics can also support weak ankles or those affected by Achilles tendinitis and help prevent conditions like shin splints. Back, pelvic, and hip pain can be a consequence of problems in your feet and ankles, so orthotics can also help with conditions like sciatica in some patients.

What types of orthotics are there?

There are two main types of orthotics:

Rigid or functional orthotics

These are made of plastic or carbon fiber, and as the name suggests, don't have a lot of give in them. Rigid orthotics are best for problems like aching feet and legs and lower back pain.

Soft or accommodative orthotics

These are made of softer materials like foam and gel that provide cushioned support. Soft orthotics are best for problems like plantar fasciitis and bunions.

You can usually wear your orthotics in your everyday shoes. It's important to ensure your shoes fit well and your feet are in a good position. Avoid high heels or pointed toes that squash your feet and force them into unnatural positions.

How do I get custom orthotics?

Melilli Chiropractic and Rehab Center works closely with specialist custom orthotics designer Foot Levelers to provide patients with the highest quality orthotics.

When you visit the practice for your consultation, your provider takes a laser scan of your feet using their state-of-the-art online scanner. The scan forms the basis for the design of your custom orthotics. The information goes to Foot Levelers, which produces your custom orthotics and sends them to Melilli Chiropractic and Rehab Center for fitting.

Foot Levelers produces individually designed stabilizing orthotics, which are custom-made to support all three arches in your foot. This ensures you have a balanced foundation and get the optimal results from your orthotics.

To find out more about the benefits of custom orthotics, call Melilli Chiropractic and Rehab Center today.