Foot Orthotics Therapeutic Footwear Therapy
A prescription pair of foot orthoses, commonly referred to as orthotics, insoles or arch supports, can be described as an in-shoe corrective brace designed to correct abnormal function of the foot, ankle and lower extremities. Foot orthoses decrease the strain on abnormal and injured foot and lower extremity structures, making it possible for them to heal pain-free. Additionally, orthoses can help prevent problems down the road from developing in the foot and ankle by lessening abnormal or pathological forces. Orthoses achieve this by correcting the weight bearing position of the foot. They are constructed from a variety of materials depending on their purpose or type.
The Difference Between Custom and Over-the-Counter Inserts
Generic shoe inserts from stores provide minimal support and aren’t designed for your specific foot mechanics. Custom orthotics from Certified Foot and Ankle Specialists are medical devices prescribed and crafted based on your individual biomechanics, gait pattern, and condition. Our podiatrists use foam box impressions or digital scanning to capture your exact foot contours. The resulting orthotics precisely correct your foot position, distribute weight evenly, and address your specific pain points. This level of customization simply isn’t possible with mass-produced inserts. The two types of prescription or custom orthoses are accommodative and functional. Both are created based on a mold of the feet by using a foam box impression. This ensures a proper fit for every patient.
Functional Orthosis
The purpose of a functional orthosis is to correct atypical function of the foot, ankle and lower extremity. These abnormalities can be due to a congenital and developmental process, acquired structural changes throughout life or as the result of trauma. Functional orthoses can be designed or modified to pad and offload painful areas of the foot as well. These orthoses are typically made from a harder and more rigid material so as to control the motion of the foot, ankle and lower extremity. However newer materials such as carbon fiber can be used to provide flexibility and support that is useful for athletic activities such as running. Functional orthoses treat a wide variety of conditions including plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and other types of tendinitis, arthritis, flat foot deformity, over-pronation, bunions, chronic ankle instability, malposition of knee or hip, limb length discrepancy and lower back pain. These are typically used with good supportive athletic shoe wear.
Comfort Orthosis
Accommodative orthotics feature softer materials that cushion and protect the foot. These are ideal for diabetic patients, those with arthritis, or anyone needing pressure relief. Our podiatrists often modify them with specific padding to offload painful areas and prevent ulceration.
For diabetic patients, therapeutic orthotics are essential for preventing foot ulcers and complications. Achilles tendinitis, shin splints, or ankle instability find that functional orthotics enhance performance while preventing future injuries.
Getting Started with Custom Orthotics in South Florida
Starting your journey to pain-free walking begins with a comprehensive evaluation at any of our South Florida offices. Our podiatrists assess your foot structure, analyze your gait, and discuss your symptoms and lifestyle needs. We then create a customized treatment plan that may include orthotics along with other therapies.
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover custom orthotics when prescribed by a podiatrist for specific medical conditions. Certified Foot and Ankle Specialists works with your insurance to maximize coverage and make treatment affordable.
Schedule your orthotic consultation today at one of our convenient East Coast or West Coast locations. Our experienced podiatrists are ready to help you walk comfortably again.
Frequently Asked Questions
Custom orthotics typically last 3-5 years with proper care. However, children and highly active individuals may need replacements sooner due to growth or wear. At Certified Foot and Ankle Specialists, our podiatrists recommend annual evaluations to ensure your orthotics continue providing optimal support.
Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover custom orthotics when prescribed by a podiatrist for medical conditions like plantar fasciitis, diabetes, or arthritis. Coverage typically requires a diagnosis and prescription. Our South Florida offices work with your insurance provider to maximize benefits and verify coverage before treatment.
Custom orthotics are medical devices prescribed by a podiatrist and crafted from molds of your feet to address specific conditions. Over-the-counter inserts are mass-produced and provide only generic cushioning. Custom orthotics correct biomechanical issues, redistribute pressure precisely, and treat underlying foot problems that store-bought inserts cannot address.
After your initial appointment and foot impression at Certified Foot and Ankle Specialists, custom orthotics typically take 2-3 weeks to fabricate. You’ll return for a fitting appointment where our podiatrist ensures proper fit and makes any necessary adjustments. Most patients can start wearing them immediately after the fitting.
There’s typically a 1-2 week adjustment period as your feet adapt to the corrected position. Start by wearing them 2-3 hours daily, gradually increasing wear time. Minor discomfort is normal initially, but sharp pain is not. Contact our podiatrists if you experience significant discomfort beyond the first week.
Yes, you can transfer orthotics between shoes of similar type and size. However, they work best in supportive athletic or walking shoes with removable insoles. Dress shoes, sandals, or high heels may require separate, specially designed orthotics. Many South Florida patients order multiple pairs for different activities.
In most cases, yes. Even if pain affects only one foot, biomechanical issues typically involve both feet. Wearing an orthotic in just one shoe can create imbalances and cause new problems. Our podiatrists evaluate both feet during your consultation to determine the best treatment approach.
Custom orthotics treat plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, high arches, Achilles tendinitis, arthritis, diabetic foot complications, shin splints, ankle instability, and lower back pain caused by foot misalignment. Our podiatrists design orthotics specific to your diagnosis and lifestyle needs.
Custom orthotic costs typically range from $400-$800 per pair, depending on materials and complexity. With insurance coverage, your out-of-pocket cost may be significantly less. Certified Foot and Ankle Specialists provides cost estimates after verifying your insurance benefits and discussing your specific needs during consultation.
