Whether it's the trail, the court, or simply keeping up with your kids, foot pain can keep you on the sidelines. For many people, the answer may be a custom orthotic, a device designed to support your feet in the way they were meant to move. Here's what you should know.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are shoe inserts that are made specifically for your feet, based on an evaluation of your foot structure, your walking pattern, and your symptoms. Unlike a one-size-fits-all insert from the store, a custom orthotic is designed to address the unique way your foot functions, and it may help support the arch, improve alignment, and reduce stress on painful areas.

How Are They Different from Store-Bought Inserts?

Over-the-counter inserts can offer cushioning and general support, and they may be enough for some people. Custom orthotics, on the other hand, are prescribed after a professional evaluation and made to match your foot, which may make them a better option when pain is persistent or caused by a specific structural problem.

Who May Benefit?

Custom orthotics may be recommended for people dealing with:

• Heel pain or plantar fasciitis
• Flat feet or high arches
• Bunions or hammertoes
• Arch pain, ball-of-foot pain, or foot fatigue
• Shin splints or overuse injuries
• Foot, knee, hip, or lower back pain related to how the foot functions
• Diabetes-related foot concerns, where reducing pressure points may be important

How Does the Process Work?

• Evaluation: Your provider reviews your history, examines your feet, and may watch how you stand and walk.
• Measurement: A scan or impression of your feet is taken to capture their exact shape.
• Fabrication: The orthotics are made to match your foot and your needs.
• Fitting and follow-up: Your provider checks the fit and makes adjustments as needed.

What Should I Expect?

It may take some time to get used to wearing orthotics, and your provider may recommend building up your wear time gradually. Orthotics can help manage symptoms, but they may work best as part of a broader plan that includes proper footwear, stretching, and activity changes.

In The Right Hands

Our first-class providers deliver first-class care, and we'll take the time to determine whether orthotics may be right for you. Don't wait! Schedule an appointment with Foot & Ankle Specialists of Utah TODAY and get back to living your best life!

This article is intended for general informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Instagram | Linkedin | Youtube