Can Orthotics Really Correct My Foot Problems?

There’s no denying that worn-out shoes with thin soles provide little to no support and can contribute to foot pain. But if your shoes are well fitting 一 and you’re still experiencing foot pain 一 it’s time to consider podiatric intervention.

Our team of specialists at Manhattan Podiatry Associates, PC, in Midtown and Downtown Manhattan, create custom orthotics for people who experience foot pain caused by a variety of conditions. 

In this article, we explain how custom orthotics 一 not generic inserts 一 can help you get the relief you need.

Can orthotics really correct foot problems?

While generic shoe inserts can’t correct foot problems, custom-made orthotics can. Generic inserts provide cushion, but they aren’t tailor-made to meet your needs. Custom orthotics, on the other hand, are made to fit your unique anatomy.

At Manhattan Podiatry Associates, PC, we offer two types of orthotics: functional and accommodative. 

What issues can functional orthotics fix?

Your feet are constantly moving all day, and that’s why our team evaluates your stride during your custom orthotics evaluation. Your stride, also called a gait, is how your foot functions when you walk. 

Normally, your heel hits the ground first when you take a step. Then, your arch hits and flattens out a little bit. If your foot leans too far to the left or right when you step, it can cause pain. This is called pronation and supination.

Functional orthotics correct problems caused by any abnormal motion of your feet. They help your feet function better, hence the name. These orthotics are created from semi-rigid plastic or graphite, and they can also reduce foot pain caused by tendonitis.

What issues can accommodative orthotics fix?

Accommodative orthotics are designed to treat foot problems caused by uneven or excess pressure. Because of this, these orthotics are softer and more flexible than functional orthotics. 

You might benefit from accommodative orthotics if you have:

• Diabetic foot ulcers
• Calluses 
• Arthritis 

These orthotics aren’t intended to alter the biomechanics of your feet. Instead, they’re designed to accommodate your feet and provide comfort. This type of orthotic reduces the impact of standing and walking on your feet, reduces the shear stress on your feet, and redistributes your weight away from trouble spots. 

By reducing pressure on your feet, these orthotics can help prevent calluses and sores from turning into foot ulcers. 

Benefits of custom orthotics

One of the biggest reasons to consider custom orthotics is that they can reduce foot, ankle, and heel pain. Not only can orthotics provide cushion in exactly the right spots, but they can also help correct bursitis and tendonitis, lift fallen arches, compensate for toe joint deformities, and treat plantar fasciitis. 

Here are four more reasons to consider custom orthotics over generic versions:

• They’re more effective than their one-size-fits-all counterparts
• They’re made from the best materials available 
• They’re designed to last for many years
• Many insurance providers cover a portion of your cost

Don’t let foot pain keep you from staying active. To learn more about the benefits of custom orthotics, schedule an appointment today. You can call us or use our online scheduling tool to get started today.