Custom Molded Orthotics for Foot Relief

What You Need To Know

How custom orthotics work and what to expect during your fitting.

Understanding Custom Molded Orthotics

Custom-made shoe inserts, called orthotics, are prescribed by your doctor at Desert Foot and Ankle as a treatment method to relieve foot or ankle pain and to restore normal foot function. Orthotics are similar to eyeglasses in that they provide stabilization to relieve the pain that comes along with strain and they restore proper function of the foot to make it more mechanically efficient. Even people experiencing minimal foot discomfort without a significant foot deformity can find relief in custom orthotics.

Orthotics are custom made to your foot size and type. They are molded to exactly the contours of your foot for a perfect fit and feel. As a result, they are comfortable, and with modern plastics and rubber, they are easy to care for.

During activity, your arch goes up and down to absorb shock. As we age, the arch (due to genetics and wear and tear) begins to collapse. With that collapse of the arch, pain and disability can result. Common signs that orthotics may help include arch pain, heel pain, forefoot pressure, fatigue with prolonged standing, and discomfort during sports or walking.

A clinical evaluation must be performed by your podiatrist to determine which type of orthotic can help your foot condition best. Your podiatrist’s clinical evaluation will help determine the best type of orthotic for your particular needs and the types of shoes you normally wear. If you are experiencing ongoing foot or arch pain, schedule an evaluation with Desert Foot and Ankle to see whether custom orthotics are right for you.

Types of Orthotics and What to Expect

There are several types of orthotics available at Desert Foot and Ankle. Accommodating orthotics are among the most traditional. These orthotics use padding to protect and support the foot to accommodate or offload a specific area of your foot to relieve pressure.

Functional orthotics use bio-mechanical applications and posting to influence the motion of the foot and alter the forces acting on the foot to make the foot work better and pain free. When a blend of both accommodating and functional orthotics is necessary, podiatrists turn to functional-hybrid orthotics. These have an accommodating and shock absorbing top cover paired with a stabilizing shell that provides correction. Functional-hybrid orthotics can be prescribed for specific reasons, such as standing for prolonged periods at work or playing sports.

All of our orthotics are created from electronically scanned images or physical impressions of your foot to ensure accuracy and expedite handling for prompt service. After evaluation by our doctors, the most effective type of orthotic for your condition will be determined and prescribed.

Upon receiving your orthotics, our doctors will provide necessary wearing instructions and schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate your treatment progress. Should you require any adjustments, your doctor can often provide them in the office while you wait.

Most insurance companies cover the cost of orthotics. Our team at Desert Foot and Ankle will obtain insurance authorization and help with claims and processing so you can focus on getting back on your feet comfortably.