Custom Orthotics
If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, orthotics from our foot and ankle doctors may be the solution for you. Custom orthotics are made specifically for your feet and they ensure the best possible comfort and support. These custom-made devices may also help improve your posture and balance by more evenly distributing the weight on your feet.
At the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England, we can fit you for a custom-made orthotic device, as well as supply the orthotic itself at each of our three locations in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are devices used to correct or improve foot function. Our experts may recommend these devices to correct the alignment of your feet, provide support, and help relieve pain. Orthotics can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, and carbon fiber.
Common orthotics include:
- Shoe inserts (soft, rigid, semi-rigid)
- Ankle braces, foot braces
- Heel casts
Orthotics may be purchased over the counter at most pharmacies, or they can be custom-made. Custom orthotics are often more expensive than over-the-counter orthotics, but they provide better support and function.
What Orthotics Are Used For
There are many different types of orthotics, and each type is designed to correct a specific foot problem. For example, some orthotics are designed to control excessive pronation, while others are meant to provide arch support.
Orthotics are used to ease the symptoms of many different foot and ankle conditions, such as:
- Ankle instability
- Ankle sprains
- Arthritis
- Back pain
- Bunions
- Bursitis
- Claw foot
- Diabetic foot
- Flatfoot
- Foot pain
- Gait issues
- Hammer toes
- Heel pain
- Heel spurs
- High arches
- Plantar fasciitis
- Sports injuries
- Tendonitis
If you have a foot or ankle condition that is causing you pain or affecting your ability to walk or stand, custom orthotics may be able to help.
Custom Orthotics: What to Expect
If you are interested in trying custom orthotics, the first step is to schedule an appointment with one of our foot and ankle doctors. During your appointment, your doctor will assess your feet, gait, symptoms, activity level, and other factors to determine whether orthotics could help improve your condition.
Next, impressions of your feet will be taken in the office then sent to a laboratory. The lab will use the impressions to create orthotics that are customized for your feet. Once the orthotics are ready, you'll return to our office to have them fitted. Once a good fit is secured, you will be able to leave our office wearing your new orthotic!
It is important to remember that orthotics are not a cure-all for foot problems. However, orthotics can often provide significant relief and help improve your foot function.
Custom Orthotics in RI, MA
Custom orthotics can be an effective way to treat a variety of foot problems.
If you are experiencing foot or ankle pain, please contact our office today to schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified foot and ankle doctors. Should you need a custom orthotic, we can fit and provide you with one specially designed to address your specific foot or ankle issue.
For the most comprehensive foot and ankle care – which includes custom orthotics, medical care, and surgical treatments – call the Foot & Ankle Institute of New England office nearest you: in Warwick or Middletown, Rhode Island, or Dartmouth, Massachusetts. Or feel free to use our convenient online appointment request form.
