Custom Orthotics in Campbell, CA Serving San Jose & Los Gatos, CA
Custom orthotics are shoe inserts made specifically for your feet in order to treat foot pain, discomfort, deformities, or an abnormal gait or walking pattern. Orthotics can be prescribed to people of all ages, from young children to seniors. They are designed to cushion and support the feet, reduce symptoms of various foot disorders, and make going about your day-to-day life more comfortable.
A variety of foot conditions can warrant a custom orthotics prescription. Pain from chronic foot injuries, such as plantar fasciitis or a stress fracture, can be helped by wearing cushioning, or supportive orthotic inserts in your shoes. Symptoms from common foot deformities such as bunions and hammertoes can also be managed, and the progression of the disorders stopped or slowed down, by wearing orthotics. Foot structure abnormalities, like flat feet or high arches, can cause discomfort while walking or standing, which can be alleviated with orthotics. An abnormal gait, for example, one in which your feet turn too far inwards while walking, can also be corrected with custom orthotics.
When a Podiatrist Might Prescribe Orthotics
Orthotics may be part of a treatment plan to help with a wide variety of foot, ankle, and toe conditions, including diabetic neuropathy, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, obesity, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and hammertoes. Orthotics can also help correct structural and gait issues such as overpronation, which can cause plantar fasciitis. Orthotics are also a valuable aid for athletes because they help to cushion and support feet in sports such as tennis, basketball, running, jogging, or participating in other activities that cause foot stress.
How Orthotics Can Help You
Custom orthotics can provide support and cushion for your feet, which also helps prevent foot pain, leg pain, and back pain. Orthotics can help with alignment and posture too.
How Orthotics are Created
Custom orthotics are made individually, to fit each of your feet exactly. Casts, impressions, or scans are made of your feet. The orthotics are then created from a variety of materials.
Types of Orthotics
There are three main types of orthotics, classified by the materials used to make them:
- Rigid orthotics, made entirely of rigid materials orthotics help to relieve joint or tendon strain and provide strong support for your feet, legs, and lower back
- Semi-rigid orthotics, made of a combination of soft and rigid materials orthotics provide protection and support for joggers, walkers, runners, and sports enthusiasts
- Soft orthotics, made entirely of soft materials orthotics provide relief for diabetic neuropathy, support for arthritis, and help with balance
