Custom orthotics are specially molded inserts that fit into your shoes to correct various foot problems. Being custom-made, they are shaped specifically to support the individual patient’s feet by taking impressions of the feet before they are manufactured. This makes them a more effective support system as compared to over-the-counter foot inserts.
You may be concerned that custom orthotics might change the shape of your feet. Let’s talk about how orthotic shoe inserts actually support your foot shape, what other things customized orthotics can do for your feet, and where you can go in greater San Antonio for the best custom orthotics to make your shoes feel incredibly comfortable and supportive.
How Custom Orthotics Support Your Natural Foot Shape
Customized shoe inserts are constructed using supportive materials to reinforce the shape of your feet. The most common material used in foot inserts is polypropylene, which is a lightweight and buoyant synthetic substance that can be molded to fit the contours of the foot – while also remaining comfortable for all-day wear.
Other materials that are used in custom orthotics include EVA (ethylene-vinyl acetate) foam, silicone gel, honeycomb, and/or leather. These serve to pad or protect various areas of the foot without adding undue pressure, so they do not alter your foot shape.
If you have a foot condition that causes deformity, limping, or misshapenness of the feet (such as flat arches or low arches), custom orthotics are very likely to help improve your foot function and comfort when standing and walking. Bunions and hammertoes can also be gently corrected with the help of wearing custom orthotics in your shoes.
What Are the Advantages of Custom Orthotics?
Customized shoe inserts are superior to store-bought, mass-produced orthotics in many ways, including the following:
- Customized orthotics are specifically designed and shaped to fit your own feet, thereby providing better support and comfort than pre-made, mass-produced orthotics. Each custom orthotic is made for each foot, so your orthotics will not match exactly like mass-produced shoe inserts are.
- They can be implemented as part of a treatment plan for a wide range of health issues, including back pain, knee pain, and bursitis, as well as for foot problems such as plantar fasciitis (which causes heel pain), corns, and calluses.
- Because they are made-to-order, custom orthotics are built to address the specific foot problems that you may have, all while accounting for your unique foot structure.
Custom Orthotics in Greater San Antonio, Texas
Our podiatrists here at The Podiatry Group of South Texas can provide custom orthotics to help provide relief from foot pain, back pain, and knee pain. Our custom orthotics are also a nonsurgical medical treatment for a wide range of foot and ankle issues.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation to find out more about how custom orthotics would work for you, call our podiatry office nearest you or fill out our convenient online appointment request form now. We look forward to serving you!
