Custom Orthotics Edmonton

Custom orthotics function as uniquely crafted inserts for your shoes, designed to address and rectify biomechanical foot complications that could affect your walking, standing, or running. These devices can offer relief from foot discomfort stemming from various medical issues like diabetes, plantar fasciitis, bursitis, and arthritis. Similar to how glasses optimize your vision by correcting alignment, custom orthotics alleviate bodily stress and strain by ensuring your feet maintain proper positioning.

Origin of the Pain: Causes Addressed by Custom Orthotics

Orthotics are typically employed to alleviate various types of foot pain and discomfort in the ankles, knees, hips, and back. Biomechanical issues like overpronation or over-supination, arch abnormalities like flat feet or high arches, and conditions such as plantar fasciitis or Morton’s neuroma can all be addressed using custom orthotics. These devices can also assist in managing systemic conditions affecting the feet, such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, by redistributing pressure and providing additional cushioning.

The Custom Orthotics Fabrication Process

Custom orthotics are fabricated specifically for the individual patient based on a comprehensive assessment that includes a detailed biomechanical examination and gait analysis. A cast or 3D scan of the foot creates a unique orthotic that matches the exact contours of the patient’s foot and meets their specific clinical needs. The orthotics are then typically constructed from materials like thermoplastics, cork, or composites, chosen for their flexibility, durability, and support combination.

Types of Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics cater to various foot conditions by offering support, alignment correction, and relief from discomfort. They are classified into two primary categories: Functional Orthotics and Accommodative Orthotics, each having specific designs and applications catered to unique foot conditions and individual needs.

Functional Orthotics: Functional orthotics, also known as corrective orthotics, are intended to control abnormal foot motion and rectify foot alignment. Typically made from semi-rigid materials like thermoplastics or graphite, these orthotics offer a sturdy platform that manipulates foot structure and functions to mitigate discomfort in the feet, ankles, knees, and lower back. Several types of orthotics fall under this category:
- ○ Arch Support Orthotics: These are particularly beneficial for individuals who have flat feet or tend to overpronate. They provide the necessary lift to the arch, helping to maintain a natural foot posture.
- ○ Heel Orthotics: Under this category, heel cups and heel pads are common. They offer optimal cushioning and shock absorption for conditions like plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Heel cups cradle the heel, distributing pressure evenly, while heel pads offer additional cushioning to relieve pressure points.
- ○ Metatarsal Pads: These orthotics redistribute pressure from the metatarsal bones and are often used in cases of Metatarsalgia, characterized by inflammation in the ball of the foot.
Accommodative Orthotics: Accommodative orthotics, on the other hand, focus more on comfort and support. Designed with softer materials, they offer additional cushioning to tender and sensitive foot areas. This alleviates pressure and pain resulting from foot deformities, diabetic foot ulcers, painful calluses, and other uncomfortable conditions. Various orthotics are included in this category:
- ○ Insole Orthotics: Available as full-length or 3/4-length insoles, they provide cushioning, arch support, and relief from pressure points. Full-length insoles offer comprehensive foot coverage, while 3/4 length insoles are suitable for shoes with less toe space.
- ○ Forefoot Orthotics and Bunion Pads: These are designed to offer support and comfort to specific foot regions. Forefoot orthotics are beneficial for conditions like Morton’s Neuroma, and bunion pads offer relief from the discomfort of bunions.
- ○ Toe Orthotics: These include toe separators or toe crest pads designed for various toe deformities.

In conclusion, functional and accommodative orthotics offer a tailored approach to foot care, addressing patient-specific needs. Whether it’s offering correction, providing support, or enhancing comfort, the ultimate goal of all custom orthotics is to improve the patient’s mobility and quality of life.

Custom Orthotics Vs. Over-the-Counter Inserts

While over-the-counter inserts can relieve minor discomfort, they are not tailored to the individual’s unique foot structure or specific clinical needs. Meanwhile, custom orthotics are personalized to your specific foot anatomy, providing support, alignment, and improved biomechanics tailored to your needs.

Effectiveness of Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics provide a personalized approach to foot care, showing marked effectiveness in the following areas:

Pain Relief: By specifically targeting areas needing support or cushioning, custom orthotics alleviate pain and discomfort, providing immediate relief.
Improved Foot Function: These devices correct foot alignment, control abnormal foot motion, and enhance foot biomechanics, leading to better overall foot function and minimized foot strain.
Preventive Care: By ensuring optimal foot function and alignment, custom orthotics can help prevent future foot issues related to improper foot mechanics, such as bunions, corns, or hammertoes.
Enhanced Comfort: Customizing orthotics to the specific contours of an individual's foot ensures comfortable fit and efficient shock absorption, significantly improving movement comfort.
Mobility Improvement: Custom orthotics can boost overall mobility by offering support, improving comfort, and reducing pain, enabling an active lifestyle.

Always consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and to understand if custom orthotics suit your needs and conditions.

Safety and Considerations in Custom Orthotics

While custom orthotics are generally safe, it’s essential for the patient to have a gradual adjustment period to the new alignment. Temporary discomfort might be experienced as the body adapts to the new gait pattern. Custom orthotics should also be regularly reviewed and replaced when worn out to ensure optimal function.

Conclusion

Custom orthotics are potent in managing foot conditions, enhancing comfort, and improving the overall quality of life. These personalized devices provide precise support and cushioning tailored to your unique foot structure and needs, promoting better foot health and overall well-being. Remember, the key to effective foot care lies in personalized solutions – and custom orthotics deliver precisely that.

If you’re experiencing foot discomfort, struggling with a foot condition, or just want to ensure your feet are getting the support they need, consider the benefits of custom orthotics. Our team at Eastwood Physiotherapy Clinic is ready to assist you. Reach out to us today for a comprehensive evaluation and find out if custom orthotics could be the solution you’ve been looking for. Let’s take the next step together toward improved foot health and mobility.

(581) 221-5777

eastwoodpt@outlook.com

7919 118 Ave, Edmonton, AB T5B OR5

Custom Orthotics Edmonton