How Can I Get Custom Orthotics And What Are They Made Of?

Are you constantly grappling with foot, leg, knee pain or lower limb pain when you run, walk and play sports? The Perth Podiatrists can help.

Customised orthotics, when correctly prescribed, are more than just insoles. They’re designed to provide the exact level of support your feet need, controlling foot function and realigning the leg and when combined with the correct footwear and exercise strengthening programme will resolve you pain and get you back walking and running into the future.

But what exactly are custom orthotics, and how can you go about getting them?  

Definition of Custom Orthotics 

Unlike standard insoles or inserts that you can purchase from some shoe stores, customised orthotics are made to a prescription that takes into account various factors such as your gait, the shape of your feet, and any existing foot, ankle pain or leg pain. 

Customised orthotics serve a rehabilitative function, aid in the correction of irregular walking and running patterns, alleviating undue stress on the lower limb. Chronic foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, flexor plate tears, or shin splints and various other lower limb problems such as patella femoral pain, can be managed very effectively with orthotics. 

Understanding the Anatomy of Orthotics 

Materials used in Orthotics 

High-quality materials, such as ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), polypropylene, thermoplastics, and carbon fiber are chosen for their durability and adaptability to the complex structure of the human foot. The material used will be based on your individual complaint.

The Technology Behind the Design of Custom Orthotics 

Innovative technologies like 3D printing and computer-aided design (CAD) has propelled the manufacturing process, taking into account every curve and contour of your feet to create orthotics that offer optimal support and comfort. This process has improved accuracy and repeatbailty of the prescriptions. 

The Process of Getting Custom Orthotics 

1. Preliminary Consultation and Assessment 

The journey for customised orthotics begins with an in-depth consultation of your foot or lower limb pain by a podiatrist, employing techniques such as gait analysis and foot pressure measurements and high speed video analysis. At The Perth Podiatrists, we aim to optimise your lower limb function and stop pain. 

2. The Creation Process 

Once a detailed analysis has been conducted, a 3D optical scan of your feet and prescription is sent to the manufacturing laboratory. This forms the blueprint for your customised orthotics, ensuring every detail is captured to create a product that realigns your foot, ankle and lower limb. 

3. Fitting and Adjustments 

After the orthotics have been manufactured, a fitting session ensures the script, casts and orthotics match the clinical notes and scans. The orthotics are then checked in your footwear to ensure the correct functional control required is achieved. You will also be advised on care of the orthotics to ensure longevity and you will be monitored after receiving the orthotics to ensure you receive the best outcome to your treatment.  

Benefits of Custom Orthotics 

Alleviation of Foot and Leg Pain 

Customised orthotics distribute pressure evenly across your feet, or redistribute pressure away from a certain area, providing pain relief and correction of any lower limb alignment, optimising lower limb function.

Improved Posture and Balance 

By fostering proper foot alignment, orthotics promote the correct alignment of other parts of your body, paving the way for a healthier, more balanced posture. 

When Do Orthotics Need to be Replaced?

Orthotics may require replacement or refurbished for a variety of reasons. At The Perth Podiatrists. Orthotics made at The Perth Podiatrists have a lifetime warranty on shell breakage but the covers do wear and need replacement. A previous blog post explains this process very well. Please see When Do My Orthotics Need To Be Replaced? 

Step into a Pain-Free Future with The Perth Podiatrists 

Ready to make the first step? Contact us or book your consultation and start your journey to pain-free walking and running.