4 Questions to Ask About Custom Foot Orthotics

Custom foot orthotics are medical devices that are specially made to fit perfectly to the patient’s foot and are to be worn and inserted into normal shoes to correct an irregularity or abnormality of an individual’s walking pattern. The custom-made inserts are created by the podiatrist by madding a plaster mold of the patient’s foot, which is then sent to a laboratory, where a technician pours plaster into the mold to reproduce the bottom of the patient’s foot and then uses the information provided from the doctor’s prescription to create the device suited for the patient’s unique needs. Once the patient can use their new custom orthotics, they will be able to find relief from excess pressure or stress that causes pain in the ankle and foot. The goal of custom orthotics is to reduce pain, prevent any deformities in the foot from worsening, and position the foot inside shoes better to improve the movement of the affected foot and leg.

Once you have received your custom orthotics, it is common to experience some minor discomfort while getting used to wearing them, with any significant discomfort or pain being brought to your podiatrist to make any appropriate modifications if necessary. Once you have gotten used to wearing them, you will be able to experience the benefits as the pressure on the bottom of the feet is reduced and biomechanical misalignments are corrected, with common benefits including:

– Increased joint protection
– Increased support for the feet
– Significant pain reduction
– Prevention of injuries
– Improved overall well-being
– Improved athletic performance

The custom orthotics will be able to prevent or treat any irregular movements or rolling of the foot, improving the alignment and overall function of food and relevant joints throughout the entire limb.

Most custom orthotics can be classified into one of three types: soft, semi-rigid, or rigid. Soft orthotics typically have increased cushioning as they are made with several layers of soft materials, making them the best option for patients who would benefit from increased shock absorption, a reduction of pressure in certain spots, and increased balance. Semi-rigid orthotics are made with a mix of layers of soft materials that are also supported with rigid materials, making them beneficial for patients with flat feet or athletes who are experiencing pain while competing and training. Rigid orthotics use only more rigid materials to provide increased support and stability by preventing movements that can lead to pain or injury. They are often recommended for patients suffering from strains, pains, or aches anywhere from their feet, ankles, legs, and even the knees or hips.

The goal is that you will be able to comfortably wear your custom orthotics for around 8 hours per day, essentially whenever you are going to be walking around for a significant amount of time, but it will likely take a few weeks before you will be able to comfortably wear the orthotics for any extended period. Until you have had at least 3 to 4 weeks for your feet to get used to the new foot posture or positioning, it is recommended that you avoid running or other intense activities while wearing the orthotics. To help your feet get used to your new custom orthotics, it is recommended that you gradually increase the amount of time you are wearing them per day until there is no more comfort being experienced.

Custom-made orthotics are typically recommended by podiatrists because they have been deemed medically necessary, so it is likely that if your health insurance policy specifically includes coverage for custom orthotics, you will be able to receive at least partial coverage from them. They are not included in all health insurance policies, though, so you will have to check your policy to determine if they are pre-specified in your plan, potentially requiring you to reach out to your insurance provider. It is also recommended that patients check with their podiatrist to make sure that they can accept their health insurance provider.

Custom foot orthotics are available at Bay Area Foot and Ankle Associates. For more information, contact us or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you. We serve patients from Walnut Creek CA, Brentwood CA, Concord CA, Pleasant Hill CA, Pittsburg CA, Antioch CA, Alamo CA, Danville CA,  Oakley CA, and surrounding areas.