Why Custom Prescription Orthotics Are Better than Generic Inserts

Feet are the foundation for the rest of the body. If you have high arches, low arches, plantar fasciitis, neuromas or other problematic or painful foot conditions, custom prescription orthotics might be the solution for you. Orthotics are used as a timing device for your foot to reduce strain and pressure on the ligaments and tendons that are working hard to do that job and while you may have seen versions sold in retail stores, custom orthotics are specifically crafted to suit your unique foot structure and your gait. The Walking Clinic Podiatrists Canberra is home to a team of highly qualified and experienced podiatrists specialising in custom prescription orthotics, designed for you and your particular foot problem. Read on for our guide to custom orthotics and why they are much better for your feet than over-the-counter alternatives.

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts that are placed in your shoes to assist rehabilitation from an injury or reduce symptoms or progression of a chronic foot condition. Custom orthotics are designed by podiatrists to control the movement of your feet, shift the centre of pressure under the foot and redistribute the forces around the foot and lower leg, these devices are designed to make sure the timing and load is distributed though walking or running gait. Custom prescription orthotics are even made to specific sports and activities like running, basketball, sprinting, etc. Many imitations are sold over the counter by sport shops and pharmacies. Genuine orthotics are prescription medical devices which correct your abnormal foot function and minimise your foot problem. Custom orthotics are like prescription glasses, they are designed to your prescription and each individual foot

Custom Orthotics Can Help in the Treatment and Prevention of the Below Common Foot Problems:

  • Unstable flat foot or arch collapse
  • Plantar Fasciitis (Heel Pain)
  • Stress Fractures
  • Bunions
  • Tendonitis
  • Neuroma’s
  • Shin Splints
  • Arthritis
  • Corns and callous
  • Patellofemoral joint syndrome (knee tracking)
  • Lower back, hip and knee pain

Why Are Custom Orthotics Better Than Over-The-Counter Shoe Inserts?

Enhanced gait timing and function – Feet are among the most complex parts of the human body, with each foot containing 26 bones and more than a hundred muscles, as well as tendons, ligaments and blood vessels. Feet bear the entire weight of your body, and often in worn-out or ill-fitting shoes. Custom prescription orthotics provide support and create a solid foundation which aligns your whole body from the ground up. While the shoe inserts you find in pharmacies can offer support in some areas, they are mass produced and their generic nature prevents them from fitting your foot perfectly. Custom orthotics are made to the exact specifications of your feet, your gait and your activity, guaranteeing support along the entire surface of your foot, producing results in all problematic areas.

Superior Comfort – Custom orthotics are much more comfortable than over-the-counter shoe inserts, this is due to the fact they are specifically crafted to fit the unique structure of your foot. To create custom orthotics, a podiatrist makes a 3D impression of your foot for a perfect fit ensuring optimal comfort when standing, walking or running.

Pain Reduction & Prevention – While insoles sold in pharmacies and sports stores add additional cushioning to ordinary shoes, they’re not made to address your specific foot issues. Clinical studies have shown that prescription orthotics decrease foot pain and improve function. Custom orthotics address the cause of your foot pain, alleviate the pain related to conditions such as plantar fasciitis and can also protect against foot ulcers and prevent injury. Orthotics also help patients suffering from arthritis pain, by immobilizing those joints.

Correction of Foot Abnormalities – Unlike generic insoles, prescription orthotics can correct foot abnormalities like pronation (collapsed arches) and supination (high arches). As custom orthotics are moulded to each foot, they work even when one foot has a different structure than the other, ensuring balance is restored and preventing foot problems and abnormalities from getting worse.

Are Custom Orthotics Right for Me?

If you’re interested in learning more about orthotics or to schedule an appointment to determine if prescription orthotics are right for you, contact the team at The Walking Clinic today. With over 30 years’ experience and 4 convenient locations, we are the local podiatrists Canberra residents trust with their foot heath.