Orthotics is the overall term we use at Montgomery Foot Care Specialists for specialized shoe inserts. We prescribe custom orthotics to fix a number of different foot problems. Here’s a rundown of what orthotic shoe inserts are and what they can do, offered by our expert podiatrists, Dr. Heidi M. Christie and Dr. Chanda L. Day-Houts:
Orthotic inserts
- are custom made specifically for your foot
- are inserted at different points in your shoe, depending on their purpose
- make you feel more comfortable in your shoes
- correct misalignments between the various parts of your feet, ankles, and lower legs
- eliminate pain by reducing pressure in problem areas
- correct many different kinds of podiatric issues, including overpronation, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, tendinitis, bursitis, bunions, and arthritis
- can change how you walk (for the better)
- can be an effective alternative to having surgery on your feet
- are considered medical devices, so they’re sometimes covered by insurance
- can be made to fit inside most any shoe, including sports shoes, ice skates, and ski boots
- fix problems that aren’t limited to just your feet – they can ease pain in your ankles, legs, knees, hips, and lower back
- are durable and will last for many years
How to get orthotics
Many kinds of orthotics are available without a prescription at drug stores and pharmacies. You can purchase them based on the size of your foot and the problem you think you’ve got. However, if an off-the-shelf variety of orthotic doesn’t help you, you may be treating the wrong problem. Or, you may simply need a custom device, available only by prescription.
To find out, make an appointment with us at our Montgomery county podiatry office. We will make a professional assessment of your foot complaint. If we think you could benefit from a custom orthotic, we will make an impression of your foot. We then order the orthotic, which comes perfectly fitted to your foot and your foot alone. Contact us online or call us in Montgomery, Alabama at (334) 396-3668.