Orthotics Braces and Preventive Care

What You Need To Know

Learn how custom orthotics and ankle braces can support your feet and relieve pain.

Custom Orthotics and Ankle Braces

Orthotics are medical devices podiatrists at our offices prescribe to patients. Orthotics are custom made insoles you place inside your shoes to support the bones, joints, and muscles of your feet. Custom foot orthotics are designed to align the foot and ankle into the most anatomically efficient position. They look similar to insoles, but are biomedical appliances custom made to correct your specific foot imbalance.

Custom ankle braces called ankle foot orthotics (AFO) are also available at our clinics. These devices can help to increase mobility, prevent falls, improve gait, and decrease pain. Several forms of custom foot and ankle orthotics are available depending on the condition, including the Arizona brace, Moore Balance Brace, Ritchie Brace, Posterior leaf AFO, and Off Loading Leg Brace.

There are two main types of orthotics available. Functional orthotics are used for biomechanical issues of the feet and are designed to control the movement of your feet. These orthotics are generally made from semi-rigid materials like plastic or graphite. Accommodative orthotics are softer and used to add cushion and support for painful foot conditions like calluses, corns, and diabetic foot wounds.

Most foot and ankle problems can be traced back to improper foot position and alignment. To set up a fitting for orthotics, call now or use the online booking tool to schedule your visit.

How Custom Orthotics Are Made

We utilize the latest in 3-D imaging and scanning techniques to obtain a true accurate impression of the feet. In the past, plaster casting or foam impressions were used but often produced inaccurate molds of the feet due to patient movement or improper casting techniques. We have perfected this technique, employing optical imaging to eliminate these problems.

To make a pair of custom orthotics, your podiatrist uses laser scanning technology. Laser scans involve standing on a small platform that acts as a digital scanner. In less than a minute, the scanner takes an image of your feet and relays the image to a computer for analysis. Laser scans can show how you distribute your body weight over your feet, helping your podiatrist understand any muscle imbalances contributing to your condition.

We take great pride in providing each patient with the best possible orthotic for their specific condition, shoe type, activity and lifestyle. In fact, we make over 30 different kinds of orthotics and braces tailored to the problem being addressed. Your podiatrist can make custom orthotics for a wide variety of shoes, including work boots, athletic shoes, ballet-style flat shoes, and tennis shoes.

Orthotics can be made within 5 to 7 business days, though rush orders can be completed in three days for an additional fee. After being evaluated by one of our physicians, we will recommend a brace or orthotic that meets your needs and ensure it fits you properly.