Orthotics are an integral part of a treatment plan that addresses discomforts associated with various foot and ankle problems. Orthotics are used for correcting foot deformities, providing ankle support, and promoting better foot or ankle function, among other important purposes.
Although orthotics can be purchased in stores, podiatrists (foot doctors) highly recommend custom orthotics, as these are designed to fit your feet perfectly. Custom orthotics are also made of durable materials, so they can serve their purpose a lot longer than off-the-shelf orthotics can.
Let’s explore some of the specific foot and ankle conditions for which foot doctors may recommend custom orthotics.
Diabetic Foot
If you have diabetes, you have an increased risk of developing serious foot problems. A friction blister caused by ill-fitting shoes can eventually turn into a foot ulcer, which can fester and ultimately lead to an amputation, when left untreated.
Custom orthotics absorb more shock and provide adequate cushioning than generic orthotics do. Such support and protection greatly reduce the strain placed on the feet. Furthermore, because custom orthotics perfectly fit the contours of your feet, they prevent the shoes from rubbing on your feet.
Sports Injuries
Your podiatrist may recommend custom orthotics to either prevent foot and ankle injuries or to support an already-injured structure in the foot while it heals.
Custom orthotics may be used in conjunction with other treatment modalities for addressing discomforts associated with the following sports injuries:
- Achilles tendonitis
- Ankle sprains
- Plantar fasciitis
- Stress fractures of the foot
Foot Deformities
Foot and ankle doctors typically recommend custom orthotics to people with foot deformities, such as bunions, hammertoes, fallen arches, and a range of pediatric deformities.
· Bunions
Custom orthotics can reduce excess pressure on your big toe joint, consequently relieving the symptoms of bunions.
Research suggests that 50 percent of patients with bunions respond positively to custom orthotics, indicating that the device has helped them improve their gait and restore their normal foot function.
· Hammertoes
Custom orthotics exert a straightening force on the muscles that bend the toe, thereby keeping them from tightening in the curled position.
· Fallen Arches
Custom orthotics help support your arches and compensate for overpronation (when the arches of your feet roll inward or downward when you walk). Custom orthotics can also help reduce strain on the posterior tibial tendon (the tendon that passes down the back of your leg) and alleviate pain and inflammation.
Custom Orthotics in South Texas
At The Podiatry Group of South Texas, our board-certified podiatrists perform a computerized foot analysis to obtain precise (pressure) measurements, which are crucial for designing custom orthotics that can effectively address a wide variety of foot and gait problems.
To schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists, call our clinic nearest you or fill out our online appointment request form. We have 14 offices throughout San Antonio and Southern Texas. We look forward to helping you walk through life with ease and comfort!
