FAQ’s About Orthotics

At NY Foot Health, we know orthotics are a bit of a mystery for patients who don’t have them. We’ve put together this list of frequently asked questions to help patients learn more about orthotics and how they can improve podiatric health.

Q: What’s the difference between over-the-counter shoe inserts and custom orthotics?

A: Shoe inserts are mass-produced, pre-packaged devices to wear in your shoes, whereas custom orthotics are prescribed by the podiatrist and then custom-made to fit your unique feet. Shoe inserts come in several varieties including arch supports, insoles, heel liners, and foot cushions. While they can increase comfort and may relieve some pain, they cannot correct biomechanical problems or cure foot issues, but custom orthotics can.

Q: What makes a patient a good candidate for custom orthotics?

A: Orthotics can be used to treat a wide range of foot problems such as plantar fasciitis, diabetic foot ulcers, heel pain, bursitis, and tendinitis. Your podiatrist will start by examining your feet and getting a complete medical history, including prior treatments to evaluate the underlying cause of your foot problem. (If you don’t currently have a podiatrist you can use our online directory to find one in your area.) Gait analysis, imaging, and other tests may also be ordered. This will give the foot doctor a complete picture of how your foot is working and enable him or her to determine if orthotics can help your condition.

Q: How are custom orthotics made?

A: When a podiatrist prescribes custom orthotics, a three-dimensional image of each foot is made digitally or via a mold including measurements of the feet. Using this information, a set of unique shoe supports will be crafted that will only fit your individual feet.

Q: Are there more than one kind of custom orthotics?

A: Yes. There are two general categories of orthotics:

Functional—these are usually made of semi-rigid materials like graphite or plastic. The goal of this type of orthotic is to control abnormal foot motion and the pain that results from it. They may also be used to treat injuries such as shin splints or tendinitis.

Accommodative—the purpose of this kind of orthotic is to provide extra cushioning to vulnerable areas of the foot, such as in the case of diabetic foot ulcers or painful calluses. They are made out of a soft material.

Custom orthotics can help correct podiatric problems and bring last relief from pain. Talk to your podiatrist to find out if they may the solution for your foot problem. To learn correcting foot disorders,  contact us and consider subscribing to our free e-newsletter.