Orthotics, Braces and Preventive Care

What You Need To Know

Learn how orthotics work and how they can relieve foot pain and improve function.

Custom Orthotics and Preventive Foot Care

Orthotics are footwear inserts that correct abnormal walking patterns. They reduce pain, protect your feet, and prevent foot conditions by changing the angle of contact between your foot and the ground.

Orthotics are medical devices podiatrists at our offices prescribe to patients. They are custom made insoles you place inside your shoes to support the bones, joints, and muscles of your feet. Orthotics support, realign, and cushion your feet and ankles, relieving pain and improving function.

Podiatrists at Nevada Foot and Ankle recommend orthotics for biomechanical foot issues like tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, neuromas, shin splints, high arches, and flatfeet. Orthotics can also be invaluable for many other foot and ankle problems, including bunions, chronic sores, corns, warts, arthritis, calluses, Morton’s neuroma, and in-toeing and out-toeing.

Podiatrists also recommend orthotics for people who need more support for their feet, either due to their job or having a medical condition like diabetes that can cause foot wounds. Orthotics provide essential cushioning and protection for people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a condition that makes them vulnerable to diabetic ulcers. Athletes and sports enthusiasts can also benefit from orthotics, since custom insoles can help improve athletic performance and prevent injuries.

To find out if orthotics are right for you, call Nevada Foot and Ankle or book an appointment online for a full evaluation.

Types of Orthotics and How They Are Made

You can purchase over-the-counter orthotics or visit Nevada Foot and Ankle for customized orthotics to fit your specific needs. Mass-produced over-the-counter orthotics may help relieve discomfort caused by minor foot conditions and are less costly than custom orthotics. However, wearing the wrong type could worsen your condition, so consulting your podiatrist is the best way to find the right orthotic for your feet.

Rigid orthotics consist of hard materials like plastic and carbon fiber. They absorb shock when running and walking, reducing aching and pain in your legs and lower back. Soft orthotics are made of gel and foam that absorb shock, take pressure off painful areas, and improve balance. Semi-rigid orthotics combine a rigid orthotic’s control with a soft orthotic’s cushioning to help balance your feet and promote athletic performance.

Functional orthotics are used for biomechanical issues and control the movement of your feet, generally made from semi-rigid materials like plastic or graphite. Accommodative orthotics are softer and add cushion and support for painful conditions like calluses, corns, and diabetic foot wounds.

To make custom orthotics, your podiatrist uses laser scanning technology. In less than a minute, the scanner captures an image of your feet and relays it to a computer for analysis. Orthotics are typically ready in 5 to 7 business days, with rush orders available in three days for an additional fee, and most custom pairs last 2 to 4 years. Call Nevada Foot and Ankle to schedule your fitting today.