At Total Care Physio we provide your orthotic solution. Podiatrist & Chiropodist Sarah Kerrane MSCPI explains what to expect from your orthotic appointment and also the real benefits you can expect from orthotics.
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics, also known as insoles are devices that are worn inside of shoes. They can be used to treat a wide range of foot and ankle pain and problems, without the need of surgery.
How do Orthotics work?
Orthotics work by providing a solid foundation for your foot and body. They work by:
- Helping to correct the way you walk
- Providing pain relief by relieving pressure on a certain parts of the foot
- Supporting the arch
- Controlling abnormal motion across the bones and joints of your foot
- Preventing malalignment of your foot
- Providing cushioning
As well as treating foot and ankle conditions, orthotics can also be used as part of the solution to support knee, hip and back pain. Even if your feet do not hurt. The way you walk can impact the rest of your body.
What type of Orthotics do I need?
There are two types of Orthotics that I recommend:
Custom Orthotics:
These are handmade orthotics, tailor made for your feet. They are made from a mould of each foot. A spongy cast is made of your foot on the day of the appointment, then sent away to the lab for manufacture. These orthotics have a life time guarantee on the main shell and a 3 month gaurentee on the top cover. These can be refurbished as you need it.
Temporary “Off the Shelf” Orthotics.
These are premade insoles that are stocked in clinic and are designed to be customised at chair side for your foot shape. They last approximately 6-9 months depending on how heavy you use them. During the appointment we will assess and examine the foot to determine the design of the insole and you will leave on the day fully fitted with your pair of orthotics
The type of orthotic prescribed depends on the presenting problem.
What can I expect in my consultation for my Orthotic prescription?
At Total Care Physio, our goal is to provide you with the best pair of orthotics to suit your needs.
Step 1:
First we ensure we know how and where your foot problem has come from. This is important to get your orthotics right when it comes to your prescription. We will take a history of your foot problem- how it started, how long you have it, where you get your pain and what kind of shoes you like to wear.
Step 2:
Next we determine if you would benefit from orthotics. To do this we perform a biomechanical assessment of your feet. This involves checking the movement of your joints, checking the strength of the muscles and tendons and evaluating the way you walk and move to determine the best option for you.
Step 3:
Next we look at your shoes to see what type of orthotics will work best for you. We have specialist options from your favorite shoe type from narrow fitting dress shoes, to walking shoes, work boots and sports shoes.
Step 4:
At this point you will know what type of orthotics will be the best fit for you.
When making a pair of custom orthotics, an impression of your feet is now taken and we send your prescription to the lab so they have the exact shape of both feet. This is important as 90% of people have little differences between their feet.
When your custom orthotics are back from the lab we will complete your fitting session. Here you get walk in them and we give you all the advice you need on how to best wear in your orthotics and how to care for them.
If you have any questions or want to speak with us regarding orthotics, please do no hesitate to give us a call in our Limerick clinic or Tralee Clinic.
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