Custom Orthotics

Just like you, we always hope that we can treat your foot or ankle issue with the use of nonsurgical methods. Whether or not we can will depend on the nature of your injury, but we have many options to help us achieve this goal for you. One of the more versatile tools that our podiatrists use is custom orthotics, and these helpful devices might be the answer for your foot or ankle issue.

What Are Orthotics?

Orthoses are shoe inserts that we create specifically for your unique feet. They are intended to correct a medical condition that causes pain or interferes with your ability to do the activities you enjoy doing.

They are created in various sizes and shapes, and from a variety of materials, in order to achieve a variety of objectives. Typically, they are used to protect feet from injury, correct biomechanical abnormalities, or combine protective function with motion control.

Soft Orthotics

This type is generally prescribed to alleviate pressure on sore or uncomfortable areas, absorb shock, and/or increase your balance. Diabetic, deformed, and arthritic foot conditions benefit from this particular type of medical device. In order to provide superior cushioning, these devices are constructed with soft materials and may run along the length of the entire foot.

Rigid Orthotics

These are used to control or restrict abnormal biomechanical processes. Often used for a patient’s walking or dress shoes, this type of device has to be solidly constructed to offer the structure necessary for regulating movement. They are typically made with firm materials like plastic and carbon fiber and help with alleviating or eliminating pain, aches, and strains in feet, ankles, legs, or lower back.

Semi-Rigid Orthotics

When we need to achieve the cushioning benefits of soft supports with the motion-controlling aspects of rigid ones, we may prescribe a semi-rigid version. These are excellent for sports or walking, and especially useful for athletes who experience pain while competing or training for their respective sports. Usually, a semi-rigid device will be constructed using layers of soft materials reinforced with rigid ones to provide structure and improve foot balance. In addition to athletes, children who have issues that relate to flatfoot, in-toeing, or out-toeing can also benefit from this style.

What Issues Can Custom Orthotics Help Treat?

Since we customize them for your unique feet, we can use them to treat an array of medical conditions, including:

• Flat feet. This structural abnormality does not typically cause pain on its own, but it can cause overpronation. Pronation is a normal process of rotation in your feet, but excessive rolling leads to ankle, knee, hip, and back pain. Custom inserts help reduce the pronation by controlling your feet’s motion.
• High arches. Arches that are too high also create problems, but orthoses can help them as well. If your feet supinate (do not roll enough), the extra pressure applied to the outer edges can lead to painful conditions, but these devices can correct the condition and resolve any related issues.
• Plantar fasciitis. This condition is marked by a sharp, stabbing heel pain that comes with the first steps of the day. It is caused by tiny tears that happen on account of tension on your plantar fascia. Custom inserts can offer the necessary arch support to prevent this from happening.
• Neuromas. Excess pressure from surrounding tissue onto a nerve—especially in the front of the foot—can cause burning sensations, numbness, and even pain, but orthoses can help treat this condition.

The Kansas Experts in Custom Orthotics!

The Kansas Foot Center is ready to help you with any foot or ankle condition that causes you pain. Our custom-designed supports might be the nonsurgical treatment option that works for you, so let our foot specialists create a pair for you. Start your path to pain-free living by calling (866) 222-5177 to request an appointment at either of our Kansas offices (Wichita or Newton). You can also use our online form to schedule your appointment at any of our convenient locations today.