When your feet hurt, it’s tempting to grab a pair of insoles from the store and hope for the best. While over-the-counter inserts can provide additional cushioning or support, they aren’t designed specifically for your feet. For some patients, custom orthotics can provide targeted support based on their individual foot structure, movement, and condition.
What Are Custom Orthotics?
Custom orthotics are specially designed inserts that fit inside your shoes. Unlike standard insoles, custom orthotics are created specifically for your feet and are designed to address your individual needs.
Depending on your condition, orthotics may be used to improve support, redistribute pressure, or help your feet function more efficiently when standing, walking, or exercising.
What Conditions Can Orthotics Help?
Custom orthotics may be recommended as part of treatment for a variety of foot and ankle problems, including:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Heel pain
- Flat feet
- High arches
- Bunions
- Metatarsalgia
- Certain types of ankle pain
- Recurring foot discomfort
Orthotics may also be helpful for people who spend long hours standing or walking and experience ongoing foot fatigue.
Custom Orthotics vs. Store-Bought Insoles
Store-bought insoles are designed to fit a wide range of feet. They can provide extra cushioning and may be enough for someone who simply wants additional comfort.
Custom orthotics are different because they’re created based on your individual foot structure and specific needs. This allows them to address problems that a general-purpose insert may not be able to correct.
Not everyone needs custom orthotics. A foot evaluation can help determine whether they are appropriate for you.
How Do I Know If I Need Orthotics?
You may benefit from an evaluation if you regularly experience foot, heel, or ankle pain, have difficulty finding comfortable shoes, or notice that your feet become unusually tired after standing or walking.
Recurring injuries or pain that hasn’t improved with footwear changes may also be a reason to consider custom orthotics.
Do I Still Need Supportive Shoes With Orthotics?
Yes. Custom orthotics work best when paired with properly fitting, supportive footwear.
Your shoes provide the foundation, while your orthotics provide additional support based on the specific needs of your feet.
Custom Orthotics in Eugene
The right support can make a big difference in how your feet feel throughout the day. At Eugene Foot & Ankle, we can evaluate your feet, determine what’s causing your discomfort, and help you decide whether custom orthotics should be part of your treatment plan.
If foot pain is keeping you from doing the things you enjoy, schedule an appointment today.
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