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orthotics

AUTHOR: Marc Mitnick DPM

REVIEWED BY: Podiatric Medical Review Board

--> orthotics

WHAT ARE CUSTOM ORTHOTICS



It is a custom made device fitted directly to a patient’s feet. It requires a doctor's prescription. Unlike an arch support that anyone can buy in a store, a prescription orthotic is a device that is built for a specific individual and in most cases a specific foot or leg problem.

So if you and your uncle Bill have the same shoe size, his prescription inserts will not fit you, just like your prescription eyeglasses will not fit him.

A prescription insert is used to treat all sorts of foot, leg and even lower back problems. (Orthotics should not be confused with an ankle foot orthosis which is a more complex device used to control the foot, ankle and lower leg generally reserved for more severe musculo-skeletal and neurological problems.) An abnormally functioning foot can have an adverse affect all the way up to the lower back. Over the years I have put patients in prescription devices for a foot problem only to have them come back and report that their back pain has improved as well.

As just stated prescription orthotics are used to treat abnormally functioning feet, for the purpose of this discussion basically either feet that over flatten when a patient walks (pronation) or feet that do not flatten out at all (supination). Both types of abnormal functioning feet create problems from the feet to the back, however, pronation problems are seen more frequently than supination problems.

To better understand the gait cycle and how orthotics may help, click here.

Prescription orthotics are further divided into two types. One is an accommodative orthotic. This device as the name implies accommodates a problem. For example, if you suffer from very arthritic feet an accommodative orthotic may be built that would better support your feet in an effort to reduce the stress being placed on the arthritic joints and not force the joints to have to go through their full range of motion which is what usually causes pain, since the primary sign of arthritis is the limitation of motion in the affected joint.

The other type of prescription orthotic is known as a functional orthotic. This is a type of orthotic that is built in an effort to change the way the foot functions in the gait cycle, to make up for the deficiencies in an individual's anatomical make-up. This type of orthotic attempts to change the biomechanics of the foot, which in turn may have a positive impact in the skeletal system all the way up to the lower back.

In order to make a prescription orthotic a plaster of paris cast is taken of both feet in their neutral position, the ideal relationship of the feet to the legs. Although there are other methods to take an “impression”, plaster casting is considered the most accurate (also the most messy) way of capturing the feet. These casts are sent to a professional lab where an orthotic is fabricated based on the recommendations of the prescribing doctor. click here to see how my lab makes a prescription orthotic.

Prescription orthotics can be made out of a multitude of materials and may have various additions added to them based on the patient’s problem. For example, a patient with a supinated foot, generally exhibits poor shock absorption as his foot hits the ground. This inability of the foot to absorb shock allows the “shock wave” to travel up the leg where is can manifest itself as pain all the way to the lower back. In this case the prescription orthotic may be built out of materials that help absorb shock.

Notice the various types of orthotics that can be prescribed

various types of orthotics

Listed below are some of the conditions that a prescription orthotic may be used for:

  • Heel spurs, plantar fasciitis
  • Shin splints
  • Ankle instability
  • Arthritic conditions of the foot and ankle
  • Sesamoiditis
  • Diabetic foot protection and partial foot amputations
  • Running injuries including runner’s knee
  • Forefoot pain such as capsulitis, neuroma, metatarsalgia
  • Treatment for mild bunions and hammertoes
  • Pediatric problems such as in toeing and out toeing
  • Juvenile bunions
  • Apophysitis in children
  • Adult biomechanical abnormalities

As you can see, there are many uses for an orthotic. Many times the question patients will raise is why can’t they buy an over the counter arch support.

In my office I never say never. BUT, for simple foot problems like a mild ache in the heel something over the counter may do the job. In fact many times patients will come to me having already tried something they bought in the drug store.

There are a number of issues here. First, store bought supports are sold by shoe size, not foot structure. So if you are a size ten shoe and buy a size ten arch support you have to hope that your arch support happens to be the same as your foot structure. There are any number of foot structures in the human anatomy, but you may be the lucky individual whose foot structure matches the arch support. In addition store bought arch supports do not address the weight of the patient. It would stand to reason that a person weighing 250 pounds would have different support needs than someone who weighs 150 pounds. Although I cannot state that I have seen every arch support sold in drug stores and supermarkets, I can say that I have never seen one that is much better than the arch supports that come in a good pair of sneakers. So an easy rule of thumb might be that if you are having pain in spite of wearing reasonably good sneakers with a built in arch then purchasing a store bought arch support is probably a waste of your time and money.

Next, you have to hope that the arch support is built out of the material best suited to help your foot problem. Many prescription orthotics have padding added and cutouts made in certain parts of the orthotic to accomodate various foot problems. Your problem is that store bought arch supports do not come with any additions for specific foot problems like the prescription orthotics do.

running orthotics

For those of you who suffer from foot, ankle or leg issues associated with running, a different type of orthotic is often necessary. Not only does a sporthotic have to control your particular medical issue, but it has to be designed to withstand the stresses placed upon it by athletic activities. The takeaway here is that a regular orthotic designed for every day shoes, should not be used for sports. This includes both custom and store bought supports.

Next, is the life expectancy of the arch support vs. a prescription orthotic. Although a prescription orthotic is not designed to last forever (even though I have patients still wearing 30 year old orthotics), store bought arch supports generally last anywhere from 3-6 months depending on the patients activity.

Lastly, if you get lucky and your store bought orthotic happens to fit your foot contour and is supportive enough for your weight (not great odds of both those things happening), you have found yourself a partially accommodative orthotic. Yes, it might work for some of the problems an accommodative orthotic is designed for, but what if your problem really requires a functional orthotic? The odds of your store bought orthotic fulfilling that requirement is almost nil.

Does that mean I never recommend store bought arch supports? No, of course not. There will be situations where I suggest a patient try something from a drug store; I usually recommend a store bought arch support if the patient presents with vague symptoms of a potential problem, not quite severe enough to warrant aggressive treatment, but certainly something that should not be ignored. Since most people cannot wear sneakers all day, this is the next best option.

shoes for orthotics

Another consideration for orthotics is the types of shoes you intend to wear them in. Generally speaking men's shoes are not an issue as the cut of a dress shoe is not much different than an athletic shoe. The real problem occurs with women's shoes. Obviously an orthotic designed for a sneaker rarely will fit into a pump or high heel. The problem is exacerbated by the fact that to get an orthotic into a very dressy shoe it has to be dramatically modified (translated: made much thinner and narrow) and of course this takes away from the effectiveness of the orthotic. It stands to reason that if a women is suffering from a severe foot problem and an orthotic is the answer, it will usually have to be a full functional orthotic which will generally require wearing conservative shoes.

Not sure if prescription orthotics are for you? Click here for the results of a recent study on prescription orthotics.

There are orthotics that are made for women's dress shoes but in most instances I find them to be a waste of time. For the reason stated above, the dress shoe orthotic has to be so modified in order to fit into the dress shoe that its effectiveness is usually minimal to none.

OK, so you finally got your prescription orthotics now what? I generally explain to people that orthotics are like eyeglasses. When you wear them they do what they were intended to do. At the end of the day, if you walk around the house barefoot, all the benefit derived from the orthotic is lost. Wearing orthotics all the time is mandatory, at least initially in treating painful conditions. As the condition improves, you can take liberties with wearing them. In fact, over the years, I have put numerous patients in orthotics who come back years later for another problem and tell me that they wore their orthotics for a period of time until the pain finally went away and now no longer need to wear them. I always remind them to make sure they know where they hid them.

REFERENCES

OrthoInfo

American Podiatric Medical Association

Harvard Health





Want more information? CLICK HERE




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ORTHOTICS for multiple types of foot pain
best buy in a pre-made orthotic
click link below


SuperStepOrthotics


ORTHOTICS for heel and arch pain for those who must wear dress shoes
click link below


redithotics





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Hunterville, NC
….after reviewing your amazing site (great for the avg. jill). So thank you very much!!!

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NY
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NJ
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Jack

Fla
A well organized site containing much information written in a manner that the average reader can comprehend.

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Ontario, Canada
I found your website and articles most interesting.

Andrew

Fla.
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Judy

(location unknown)
I came to your website, footspecialist.net via www.foot-pain explained .com which I think is also your website? I thought explanations for different types of problems were well addressed and thoughtfully stated for the patient in mind.

L.W.

New York
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Yvette

Memphis, TN
Thanks again so much for the information in the article. Very interesting.

Anna

Scotland
Great article. I have had plantar fasciitis since I was in high school……..

J. Simmons

(location unknown)
Dear Dr. Mitnick, The orthotics arrived four days ago and I slipped them into my shoes immediately. I was skeptical as to the usefulness of the item, they really didn't look very exotic. I have to say though, after using them for just four days, I have experienced grand relief from my foot pain. Even the very first day, I was able to do a lot of work while on my feet with at least a 75% reduction of pain. It has only gotten better every day, and I go nowhere without my shoes with the orthotics. I had been experiencing extreme heel and sole pain for about six months and had to take extended breaks off my feet many times a day as well as regular doses of Ibuprofen. Since getting the orthotics, my life has returned to normal and I feel good again. Just wanted to say thanks for the recommendation for a very effective item, I had no idea what a change this item could affect.

Yours truly,

J.C. Forbes

Tennessee
Thanks for the Response, you hit it on the head.

Steve

Redondo Beach, CA
Thank you for your time and expertise in answering my question…..

LH

(location unknown)
First, thanks for putting together this website. Its the most informative site I have found dealing with foot problems. Last June I started having pain and swelling at …….

Joe

(location unknown)
First of all, thank you for having all this useful information available in one place. I've been through most of your website and based on my research, pain and evaluations I think I've narrowed things down quite a bit.

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(location unknown)
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Madison, Alabama
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Carol

Denison, TX
Dr. Marc, Thank you so much for your reply which seemed to be right on. I have researched many sites but you put me on the right path to the possible answer. My foot pain may not rule the rest of my life after all! I believe I'll make a sign that reads, "THE END IS NEAR!" Thanks Very Much,

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West lafayette, IN
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Tampa, Florida 33624
Hi. This is a great site! I'm a healthy middle aged woman who is in good health, but.....

Kelly

Texas
Just a wee word of thanks for your wonderful website...It is a terrific service...Thank you for providing your knowledge and help...With highest regards, m ebeling

Michael D. Ebeling

Tampa, Florida 33624


Thanks for a most interesting website, which has helped a lot.

Steve

UK


Dear Dr.Mitnick

I usually do my research on the Mayo clinic website. I think your website is the most informative site I have found when researching foot pain.

I thank you for putting together this incredible website.

Regards,

Dragica W.

Edmonton,Canada


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South Africa


You have an unusually clear, informative and well-written website for laypersons. Thank you for that.

Matthew W.

Mansfield Ctr, CT


First, I'd like to thank you for all the information that you provide on your website and the opportunity to write to you.

Steve

Placentia, California


First, I want to let you know that you have the best web site I've found related to foot issues. (The only thing I had difficulty finding was the "ask a question" page.)

Unknown

Unknown location


I received the orthotics Monday afternoon and began wearing them Tuesday. After two days I would say that I have noticed a huge improvement in the discomfort I have been experiencing. My foot feels better than it has in months.

Ric J.

Unknown location


I greatly admire someone like you who would donate and dedicate so much time and effort to helping strangers with no compensation. Truly, it is uncommonly kind. And your site is so intelligently arranged.

Ron R.

Pacific Grove, CA


I used to work for a podiatrist (front desk) back during summers in college years ago, so I know the benefits of good care. Again, I want to thank you for an EXCELLENT website. It was so great to get to your site (top of google search) and actually find all the answers I needed EASILY and QUICKLY! Clearly you put a ton of work into it and I really appreciate it.

All the best,

Victoria

Alameda, California


By the way, millions of websites could use yours as a guideline on how to organize information and make the site user-friendly. Kudos to you!

Anonymous


Thank you for your very interesting and informative site!

Anonymous




Hi. I come to your site often looking for information. It is really informative and I appreciate it very much. I have RA and have been having considerable amount of foot pain...... Dee RN


Thanks very much for the wonderful informative site.

Catherine

New Zealand


Thank You for my answer! I have been schedule for a bone density scan, allingment, and I am in the process of getting orthotics made, and checking out the natural remedies. Thank again! What a great web site!

Sincerely

Josette


Yes I want both pair of orthotics. You don't have an option of ordering 2 at one time so I had to place the order twice. Thanks. My husband likes these and wants to put them in all of his shoes. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Cindy H.

Arizona
I searched the internet everywhere for a clear description and illustration of my symptoms/problem. https://www.foot-pain-explained.com/ was where I ended my search with answers. If I lived in Jersey (left 30 years ago) and didn't live in Florida I would definetly make an appointment with Dr. Mitnick.

Thanks, Kathy

Florida
1st of all THANKS A LOT for your great site......

Anna

Poland
Thank you so much for your response. I will let you know how I am doing if you would like. Your website is awesome!

M P

South Carolina
Hello! I want to thank you for such an informative website! I found you based on my ankle pain search and am happy to realize that there may be a relatively simple cause and solution....

Natalie

unknown location


...Thanks for your fantastic service.

Gary

Arlington, VA


Thank you so very much, that would be much appreciated. I love those insoles, by the way. (referring to Superstep orthotics)

Kelly W.

San Clemente, CA


Dr Marc is fantastic...He seems to know exactly what you are feeling with the problems you are having. I wish he was in my home town so I could go to him with my problems!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pam

location unknown


Great insights! Thanks Doc, you're the best.

Glen

location unknown


I have been experiencing foot pain of various sorts and am working to figure out what it is. I found this site and can only say BRAVO!! What an excellent site! The time it must have taken to put all this together must've been a daunting task! I am sure it has helped so many people. Thank you so very much for doing this.

Bre

location unknown


Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so much for your reply. I did let my physician know and they took an x-ray - all is well! Also, thank you for providing this wonderful site, it is very helpful with lots of useful information! I appreciate your gift of time! God bless.

anonymous




Dr. Mitnick, Thank you, you were 100% correct. The pain finally brought me to the ER. I spent 8 days in the hospital. The Doppler you spoke of was able to show that there was no pulse in that foot. This was an arterial clot that split and traveled throughout my leg. My leg was almost amputated. I am in rough shape but have all my parts intact!! You certainly know what you are talking about. Thank you for taking the time to answer. Yours Truly!

anonymous




Staying at home after hallux surgery I spend quite a lot of time seaching info useful for avoiding problems which might come back. Today I found your site and I am .... delighted it happened. It's one of the best site I found last days.

Anna

Poland




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Esh

Seattle, WA


I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!!

Bonnie

location unknown




Also, and importantly, just want to praise this web site. Thorough and thoughtfully presented, it certainly must be of considerable assistance to anyone with a foot problem. Terrific -- and very interesting.I trust the address comes up easily for those seeking information.

Bill

New Jersey




Thanks so much for answering my question. You've been more help to me than my own Dr. has been lately. Thanks again....I hope to be able to walk without pain someday.

Debbie

location unknown




Wow, that is exactly the information needed!!! thank you thank you thank you!!! I appreciate this help so very much from Marc Mitnick DPM. Excellent information and help to improve One's life.

Chrissy

location unknown




Thanks so much for this website Dr. Marc! It is so nice that you have this ask the doctor feature..I'm sure I'ts been helpful for alot of people. I will try what you suggested and see if it helps...thanks again!

Tracy

Evansville, IA




Dear Marc

I just want to say thank you for the quick response and the good info. I find it amazing and a super nice thing that you do here by answering medical questions at no charge.

Russ W.

location unknown




Your website is full of a lot of helpful information, and I am very impressed with the time in which you responded to my post. Thank you again for your time and consideration in your response.

-Sunny.

location unknown




Thank you very much for the information, I will consider it. Excellent web site.

Jackie

San Diego, CA




Dr. Mitnick, Just want to say thank you so very much for your quick response and very informative reply! After reading what you had to say, I called the doctor's office and was able to get in and see him the same day as my injury. Toe was x-rayed and luckily, it is not broken or fractured. Very badly bruised and will probably lose the toe nail. And although my toe and toe nail are still very black and blue and very sore, they ARE both starting to feel a little better. So again, thank you! I am so very happy that I came across your website. The service you provide is outstanding and immeasurable!

Rivi,

Albany, NY




Thank you so much for all of your advice. In searching the web for people dealing with this same issue i can tell you that you are a Knight In shining Armor! If I lived in Jersey I would gladly be your Spokesperson. Hopefully next time you hear from me it will be good news. God Bless,

Jill S.

location unknown




THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME AND EFFORTS, YOU ARE SO VERY APPRECIATED. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO.

Jackie

Whichita, KS




thanks again, this site is very helpful.

mark

Boston, MA




Like others have stated...This site is amazing and I am so thankful that it was created.

....Keep up what your doing. Your a life saver.

Michelle

Colorado




Thanks again for the information provided on your site. It's easy for non-medical folk to understand your writing, and helps provide better communication between patient and doctor.

annielou

Colorado


Wonderful advice

by: Anonymous

This is the best site for foot problem info.


Thank you for this information. This description fits my pain and inflammation behind my 2nd toe perfectly.

by: Max

location unknown
Again, I really appreciate that you responded to my inquiry, and that your mention of Parkinson's helped me to find my way to a diagnosis of this difficult to diagnose disease. Most patients see on average 16 doctors before they are diagnosed. I hope that you can help other people that ask for your expertise in the future.

Barb D.

Canada
I just wanted to say that I am very greatful for this website!! I have had a fusion in my rt foot and am finally getting a little bit better......

Bonnie

location unknown
Again, Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking the time to answer my question....your an angel!

Nancie

Wisconsin
Thank you for your response. You have provided some great insight (to my question)....

Julie

location unknown
Thank-you so very much for responding so quickly and in such detail to my question!! I will give my surgeon a call today!! This website is terrific!!!! Thank-you again!

Renae

North Carolina
Many Thanks Dr Marc!
Thank you for your response. It sounds like a good plan to me. He did not cut the wart out first ...

KG

location unknown


Thanks again doc for having this website and we STILL need qualified Podiatrists in beautiful sunny Tampa Bay (Bradenton) Florida.

Bessie Mae

Florida
Dear Dr. Mitnick, Thank you so very much for taking your time to answer my question. You have greatly relieved my anxiety related to the continual tingly I feel in my feet. I will share your response with my podiatrist next week. God bless you for having this question and answer page on your website! Most gratefully,

Lynne T.

location unknown
Your webpage is excellent, I commend you on sharing your knowledge to the public.

Robert

New Jersey


Thank you. you were more detailed than what others have told me they finally called from the last xrays and my son is now in a cast for 2 weeks he did have a fracture that was not noticeable.

a mom

location unknown


I have read your website and I have to admit that I am amazed at all the information that is on here. I have learned more than the three years I have been going to several doctors that I have seen!!

Melody

Lenoir, NC


Thank you so much Doc for a quick and thorough response!

Rustam

Bellevue, WA


I cannot thank you enough for your response, opinion, and suggestions! I want you to know how much it means to me, and I'm sure everyone else who has ever asked you a question! I feel like you're a lifesaver and have empowered me to take a stronger role and stand up for myself and my feet!

Jodi

location unknown



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