As specialists in the treatment of foot and ankle conditions, podiatrists will often recommend the use of orthotics, or custom shoe inserts. They can be used for the treatment and prevention of many different conditions affecting the foot or ankle. I would like to discuss what orthotics are, and some of the reasons why they are prescribed in the treatment of foot and ankle problems.
What are orthotics? Orthotics are custom-made inserts that slip into your existing shoes. They do not require use of special orthopedic shoes. They are made by taking a plaster cast of the foot in a “neutral” position, or by scanning the foot with different technologies. Orthotics can be rigid or flexible, they can be full-length or partial-length, and many different modifications can be added that are specific to your foot or ankle problem. They may or may not be covered by your insurance plan.
Orthotics for children with excessively flat feet: Flat feet in children is a relatively common complaint of parents concerned about the development of their kids. Excessive flattening of the arch at a young age will often lend to kids tripping a lot, feeling unstable in the foot, ankle and lower leg, with frequent complaints of pain and weakness in the foot and leg. Kids who complain of this and parents who notice tripping, difficulty walking, weakness, excessive flattening of the arch, should consider visiting a podiatrist for orthotics. Use of orthotics through the formative years as the child’s bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments develop can help aid normal development. Not all kids with flat feet need to be in orthotics. However, if the child is having difficulty being active and has developed symptoms, we strongly encourage an evaluation and consideration for the use of orthotics.
Orthotics for arch or heel pain: Heel pain, which is most often caused by plantar fascitis, is usually an indication that the band of tissue that helps support the arch of the foot (plantar fascia) is being overworked and is in need of better support. Pain in the arch is usually due to tendonitis of the main tendon that supports the arch of the foot (posterior tibial tendon). Orthotics can provide the support and control through the heel and arch that the foot needs.
What else? Orthotics have proven to be effective in the management of many other conditions, including painful calluses, bunions and hammertoes (while they don’t correct these problems, they can help slow the progression), Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, leg length inequality (which can happen after knee or hip surgery, or with scoliosis or other spine or hip problems), neuroma, and arthritis.
While orthotics are not the answer for every problem, and admittedly, they don’t work for everyone, they can be used in many scenarios to increase foot health and function. At the Foot and Ankle Institute of Valencia, we welcome you with whatever problem of the foot or ankle you may be having.
For more information, please call 661-260-1180 for an appointment.