What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are orthopedic devices that are used to modify, alter, or adjust foot function. They are designed to help relieve foot pain and treat various biomechanical foot disorders and support improvements in foot mechanics. Custom fitted orthotics also positively affect the kinetic chain, relieving stress on the knees, hips, and low back.

Play The Sole Supports Story Video to learn how these orthotics are custom designed to correct your foot mechanics

Our Feet Work Like Shock Absorbers for the Weight of Our Bodies

Our feet primarily function as shock absorbers for the weight of our bodies. When structural abnormalities, misalignments, imbalances, and deformities are present in one or both of an individual’s feet, these biological shock absorbers can literally collapse under the person’s own weight. This stress can lead to all sorts of discomfort, pain, and injuries.

Orthotics Restore Normal Foot Function

The way orthotics resolve these issues, then, is by properly realigning the bones and ligaments of the foot and supporting them in these proper positions so that the foot function can return to normal.

Types of Orthotics Available

Types of orthotics range from accommodative orthotics, which relieve mild symptoms of minor foot troubles, to functional orthotics, which treat and support more severe biomechanical foot abnormalities. Orthotics can be made of many different types of materials and range widely in both price and effectiveness.

Store Bought and Over the Counter Orthotics

Although store-bought insoles are often called a type of orthotics, there is a marked difference between the two. Over-the-counter orthotics may relieve mild foot discomfort by alleviating pressure from various areas of the feet that are particularly sensitive. However, they are not nearly as effective in combating more moderate to severe foot disorders.

Custom Crafted Orthotics

For best results with orthotics, custom crafting is recommended, as each person’s feet and foot problems are different, and custom crafted orthotics are tailored to each individual patient’s unique needs.

First a cast is taken of the patient’s feet, which creates an accurate model duplicating any existing misalignments in their structure. Then, with the aid of computer technology, trained lab technicians design an orthotic device for that patient to correct those misalignments and balance out any foot irregularities or deformities.

The completed orthotic is then carefully fitted into the patient’s shoe, creating the proper support the foot needs and eliminating any abnormalities in the patient’s foot mechanics.

Orthotics may also include padding that adds a bit of cushioning to make the devices more comfortable to the wearer.

We Use Sole Supports Custom Crafted Orthotics in Our Office

SoleSupports, the brand of orthotics that we use, differ from other brands of orthotics primarily in that they are cast during weight-bearing instead of while seated so that the custom orthotic devices created can better support the patient while standing and moving about.

Schedule a Consultation to Discuss Your Foot Pain 

Many people are not aware that it is a misalignment, deformity, or abnormality in one or both of their feet that is causing them the discomfort they feel in other, seemingly unrelated, areas of their body such as their low back pain or knee pain. But an imbalance in foot function can cause all sorts of difficulties in almost any area of the body, including general fatigue. 

Call and speak to one of our expert team members at 773.878.7330 to schedule a foot and ankle examination today to see how you might benefit from orthotics.  We are located in Andersonville (on Ravenswood Avenue) with free street parking available.