4 Times a Podiatrist Prescribes Custom Orthotics

When you think of shoe inserts, you might picture the generic foam ones from the drugstore. But custom orthotics are a world apart—they are precise devices tailored specifically to your feet. But we at New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group don’t just prescribe them on a whim. There are specific instances in which our patients would best benefit from custom orthotics. Today, we’ll go over when we prescribe them most and why.

To Manage Chronic Pain and Deformities

If you’ve been dealing with foot pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, or pain from a bunion or hammertoe, and conservative treatments haven’t fully worked, orthotics are often the next step. And no, they aren’t just for cushion. They are designed to actually correct the underlying issues causing the pain.

But by supporting your foot’s arch and taking pressure off certain areas, they alleviate strain on inflamed tissues and reduce friction.

After an Injury or Surgery

Following a significant foot injury, like a fracture or a severe ankle sprain, your podiatrist may prescribe custom orthotics to aid your rehab process. During rehab, an extra cushion goes a long way – along with the prevention of reinjury, of course.

Similarly, after foot surgery (such as a bunionectomy), orthotics are essential to maintaining the new alignment, offloading pressure from the surgical site, and improving foot function during the post-op period.

For High-Risk Patients

For some, custom orthotics are a critical part of managing their condition. If you have diabetes or peripheral neuropathy, for instance, you may have reduced sensation in your feet. Custom orthotics, however, are made to redistribute weight, prevent skin breakdown, calluses, and non-healing ulcers. Even for arthritis, orthotics provide support to pain and inflammation in sensitive joints.

To Prevent Injuries

Even without chronic pain, a podiatrist may prescribe orthotics to correct or manage biomechanical issues. For a person with severely flat feet or rigid high arches, orthotics can guide the foot’s motion into a more efficient and stable pattern. This not only prevents fatigue and pain but also helps correct alignment throughout the entire lower body, which can prevent secondary issues in the knees, hips, and back.

This is especially great for athletes – orthotics can be tailored to optimize your form and foot function. If you’re an athlete who’s dealt with a stress fracture or Achilles tendonitis, a pair of CO’s can be a game-changer.

If you’re worried about your foot pain, come see the expert team at New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.