Custom Molded Orthotics for Your Feet

What You Need To Know

How custom orthotics work and who benefits from wearing them.

Understanding Custom Molded Orthotics

Custom-fitted orthotics are prescribed by a foot doctor and designed to support and comfort your feet. They are manufactured after a thorough exam of your feet, ankles and legs, so these inserts fit your unique foot structure and needs. Unlike typical shoe inserts, custom orthotics provide optimal cushion and support and can aid in correcting a specific foot condition you may be dealing with.

Custom orthotics are shoe inserts that help realign the foot to function in a more efficient position. They help control the foot mechanics so there is less arch pressure, unlike an off-the-shelf arch support. Orthotics allow people to stand, walk, and run more efficiently and comfortably. They are similar to eyeglasses in that they provide stabilization to relieve pain that comes with strain and restore proper function of the foot.

During activity, your arch goes up and down to absorb shock. As we age the arch, due to genetics and wear and tear, begins to collapse, and pain and disability can result. Conditions such as diabetes, plantar fasciitis, bursitis, arthritis, and flat feet can highly benefit from custom orthotics.

At SoCal Foot Care, we first assess your overall health and evaluate your pain or discomfort along with contributing factors. After a thorough examination, we check your gait and watch the movement of your feet, ankles and legs. If you feel orthotics may be right for you, we recommend meeting with a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and to discuss how to improve your foot health.

Types of Orthotics and Advanced Fitting

There are two primary categories of orthotics. Functional orthotics help control abnormal motion and the pain associated with this condition, and are usually made of a semi-rigid material like graphite or plastic. Accommodative orthotics provide cushioning and support and can help treat diabetic foot ulcers and painful calluses. When a blend of both is necessary, podiatrists turn to functional-hybrid orthotics, which combine an accommodating, shock absorbing top cover with a stabilizing shell.

Orthotics are an effective clinical tool for treating Achilles tendon pain, bunions, flat feet, high arched foot, hallux rigidus and limitus, medial knee pain, metatarsalgia, plantar fasciitis, sesamoiditis, and shin splints. We also prescribe orthotic devices to control abnormal walking patterns, slow the progression of bunions or flatfoot, and support patients following surgery.

Our custom orthotics are molded to the exact contours of your foot, size, and type to ensure a perfect fit and feel. They are made from electronically scanned images or physical impressions of your foot to ensure accuracy. Using 3D scanning, we capture detailed measurements of arch height, foot length, and pressure points to design orthotics that provide optimal support, alignment, and comfort.

Most insurance companies cover the cost of orthotics, and our team will help with authorization and claims processing. Once you receive your orthotics, we provide wearing instructions and schedule a follow-up appointment to evaluate your progress and make any needed adjustments.