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Orthotics
Also known as orthoses, insoles and shoe inserts, orthotics are purposeful medical devices that work to alter the biomechanics of the feet and legs (meaning how the bones, joints, muscles and tissues work together). Usually, this is focused on relieving pain, improving comfort, or facilitating healing following injury. Orthotics can also be used to improve sporting performance and reduce muscular fatigue - among other outcomes
All registered Podiatrists have undergone years of training in lower limb biomechanics, and the design of orthotics. This allows them to assess, diagnose, and treat injuries and conditions affecting the lower limbs, and to use orthotics appropriately within a comprehensive plan.
Disclaimer: This is an informative guide only and is not a tool for diagnosis or a replacement for a consultation with a Podiatrist. If you think you need orthotics or are experiencing any pain or problems with your feet or lower limbs, we recommend that you see your Podiatrist for an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate management plan. Referrals are not required to see a Podiatrist. The images used do not necessarily reflect the condition, symptoms or treatment being discussed and are intended for illustrative purposes only.
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What problems can orthotics help with?
Orthotics can help with numerous problems and injuries associated with the feet and legs. These include, among many others:
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Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
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Achilles tendinopathy (pain at the back of the heel)
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Metatarsalgia (forefoot pain)
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Morton’s neuroma
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Ankle sprains
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Arthritic or joint pain
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Painful flat fee
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Sever’s disease (growing pains in kids)
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Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome)
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Patellofemoral knee pain
What types of orthotics are there?
There are two primary types of orthotics that Podiatrists will prescribe: custom orthotics and prefabricated orthotics. If you require orthotics, your Podiatrist will be able to provide specific advice to you about what type will be best, and design your orthotic accordingly.
Custom orthotics
Custom orthotics are specifically made for a patient using an impression of their feet. This is generally taken using a 3D scan, however, may also be done via plaster cast, or a foam box impression. This scan or impression is combined with the patient’s biomechanical assessment to create unique orthotics that are specifically designed for the individual with a high level of precision and specificity.
These orthotics are typically made with materials that will have a longer lifespan than prefabricated orthotics (below). Custom orthotics can often move easily from shoe to shoe, as long as the shoes can accommodate orthotics and there aren’t substantial differences between the shoes (e.g. different sizes). Orthotics work while you’re wearing them, so patients are encouraged to wear their orthotics as much as possible to receive the maximum benefit - particularly if they’re just starting to recover from injury.
Depending on the problem and type of orthotic designed, they may also be able to help reduce the risk of future injury or re-injury. When getting custom orthotics, your Podiatrist will discuss with you the specific function of your orthotics and how they will work to improve your foot health.
Prefabricated orthotics
Like custom orthotics, prefabricated orthotics are created with a purpose and function specific to the individual and the problem they’re experiencing. Unlike custom orthotics, however, prefabricated orthoses don’t capture the patient’s unique foot impression. Instead, they use a standard shape and size as a base and specific features are added to the orthotics so they can achieve the desired function.
Prefabricated orthotics are usually created from softer (though not necessarily ‘soft’) materials compared to custom orthotics and hence have a shorter lifespan.
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