Custom Foot Orthotics

An 'orthotic' is a device designed to restore your natural foot function. Many 'biomechanical' (walking) complaints such as heel pain, knee pain and lower back pain are caused by poor foot function. Orthotics re-align the foot and ankle bones to their neutral position, thereby restoring natural foot function. In turn this helps alleviate problems in other parts of the body.

In addition, orthotics give a more even weight distribution, taking pressure of sore spots (e.g. the ball of the foot, corns in between toes, bunions etc) and they provide some shock absorption.

Foot pain is not normal and should not be ignored; problems can affect the functioning of other parts of the body, including the hips, knees, and back. These are foot-related problems that may be related to biomechanical issues. Chiropractors  will often recommend custom foot orthoses (orthotics) as part of a treatment regimen.

As part of our examination process we use a computerized gait scanner.  The gait scanner can look at pressure distibution of the foot and can assess key issues such timing or sequence of how the foot contacts the ground.  This helps us understand important aspects of how the foot is working (or not working) that just can't be seen with the naked eye.
 

Who needs orthotics?

Orthotics benefit people with foot pain or discomfort due to walking imbalance. Imbalances of the bones of the feet can result in abnormal foot motion (over pronation). This can impair foot function which can result in abnormal rotation of the legs and sometimes affects the knees, hips or back. If we combine these tremendous forces with the need for precise balance, we can see how small structural changes in the foot can make significant differences. Orthotics help to improve those structural changes.

Can you wear the orthotics during all daily activities?

People who stand or walk all day will benefit from orthotics.
If you suffer from pain during any form of sporting exercise then orthotics can reduce the pain associated with your condition.
For overweight individuals, orthotics will help to counteract the extra stress being placed on the feet.

What specific conditions may be helped?

Below is a list of all the conditions that orthotics can help.
Achilles Tendonitis, Corns, Metatarsalgia, Sesamoiditis, Ankle Sprains, Flat Feet, Neuroma, Tendonitis, Arch Pain, Heel Pain, Plantar Fascitis, Pronation, Top of the foot pain, Bunions, Knee Pain, Shin Pain, Toe Pain.

Imbalance in your feet can alter the bony structure of your feet and lower legs, foot orthotics may eliminate posture problems and foot and leg pain.

Do I need a physician's prescription to get custom orthotics?

No. Chiropractors are primary health care professionals and therefore do not need a physician's referral. Chiropractors are trained to adjust and re-align every part of your body including your feet. Custom orthotics are orthotics that are especially molded to your feet. The best orthotics are flexible and support all 3 arches of your feet.

Does it take time to get used to orthotics?

Your feet need time to adjust to the correct biomechanical (walking) position. Orthotics should be gradually used to begin with. During the first 48 hours of use, use the orthotics for approximately 3-4 hours. After this period of time it is recommended you use the orthotics for 6-8 hours. In the second week of use the orthotics can be utilized all day.

Remember if you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your ankles, knees or hip joints ....the direct cause may be the function of your feet or ill-fitting shoes.

image from a computerized gait scanner