Whether you’re an athlete looking to enhance performance or someone seeking relief from foot pain, custom orthotics can offer significant benefits.
Custom orthotics play a crucial role in improving foot function, alleviating pain, and enhancing overall quality of life for many individuals. At Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle, we aim to help you make informed decisions about whether custom orthotics are right for you.
WHAT ARE ORTHOTICS?
These are specialized shoe inserts are devices to address specific foot issues, biomechanical abnormalities, or musculoskeletal conditions. These are sometimes referred to also as arch supports, shoe inserts, or orthoses. They can be hard, soft, or in-between depending on the condition being treated.
WHAT CONDITIONS DO ORTHOTICS TREAT?
Custom foot orthotics can be used to treat a wide range of foot and lower limb conditions, including:
- Flat feet (pes planus)
- High arches (pes cavus)
- Plantar fasciitis
- Bunions
- Achilles tendonitis
- Shin splints
- Knee pain
- Hip pain
- Back pain
By providing support, stability, and alignment to the feet and lower limbs, custom orthotics can help alleviate pain, improve function, and enhance overall mobility and quality of life for individuals with various foot and lower limb issues.
CUSTOM VS PREFAB ORTHOTICS
When explaining the difference between custom and prefabricated orthotics, I like to make the comparison to eyeglasses. Some people are able to go to the store and get “cheater” glasses that work well for them. Other people’s eyesight requires a prescription. The foot is similar. Many people can do quite well with a prefabricated pair of inserts. Others require a more specialized prescription insert.
Prefabricated orthotics are mass-produced and readily available without the need for customization. As a result, they are generally more affordable than custom orthotics. Prefabricated orthotics are designed to fit a range of foot sizes and shapes, which makes them more accessible. While prefabricated orthotics may offer some degree of adjustability or trimming options to accommodate different shoe sizes, they do not provide the same level of customization and personalized fit as custom orthotics.
Custom orthotics are individually tailored to fit the unique contours of a patient’s feet. They are custom-made based on precise measurements obtained through methods such as 3D scanning, plaster casting, or foam impressions. This customization ensures a perfect fit and optimal support for the individual’s feet, regardless of their size, shape, or specific foot issues. Custom orthotics are typically made from high-quality materials chosen to meet the specific needs and activity levels of the individual. With proper care and maintenance, custom orthotics can last anywhere from 1 to 5 years or more.
HOW WE MAKE CUSTOM ORTHOTICS
At Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle we use technology of 3D Scanning through Forward Motion Medical Systems for the manufacturing of custom orthotics.
Benefits of 3D Scanning:
- Precision: 3D scanning offers high precision, capturing detailed foot morphology and biomechanics, resulting in accurate orthotic designs.
- Customization: Scanned data can be further customized using digital software to allow for personalized orthotics tailored to an individual’s specific needs.
- Efficiency: The scanning process is quicker and less invasive compared to traditional casting methods, reducing discomfort for patients. Less messy than traditional casting methods.
- Digital Data: Digital scans are easily archived, replicated, and shared for collaboration or future orders. Molds or impressions are not damaged during shipping to and from the lab.
- Patient Experience: Generally offers a more comfortable and modern experience, especially for individuals who may have sensitivities or physical limitations.
CAN ORTHOTICS BE USED IN ANY TYPE OF SHOE?
Custom orthotics can typically be worn in most types of shoes, including sneakers, dress shoes, and even some sandals. However, it’s essential to choose shoes with adequate space to accommodate the orthotics without causing discomfort or altering fit. I often warn patients that it can be, however, a little bit of trial and error to find what shoes work best. An orthotic can even be made to accommodate a certain type of shoe, including high heels.
ARE CUSTOM ORTHOTICS COVERED BY INSURANCE?
The short answer is sometimes. There are now only a few insurance plans that do cover custom orthotics, but unfortunately a majority do not. To combat less and less insurance companies covering custom orthotics, Rocky Mountain Foot and Ankle offers an affordable cash option of custom orthotics at $260. This covers both left and right orthotic, the scans, any initial customizations, and the fitting visit.
If you’re considering orthotics, our podiatrists are available to address your questions and recommend the most suitable orthotics for your needs. To schedule a consultation with one of our specialists, please contact us for an appointment.
