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What are custom orthotics?

Custom orthotics are prescription inserts or heel pads that you wear inside of your shoes. They support the unique curves of your feet, improving your gait, posture, and mobility.

Orthotics are much higher quality than the inserts you can find at the grocery store or pharmacy. They require a doctor's recommendation as well as routine checkups.

What types of foot and ankle problems can benefit from custom orthotics?

At Gateway Foot and Ankle Center, the team uses custom orthotics to treat various foot and ankle problems, including:

  • Arthritis
  • Bunions
  • Bursitis
  • Diabetes
  • Flat feet
  • Heel spurs
  • High arches
  • Foot injuries

You might also benefit from custom orthotics if you run or play sports and have plantar fasciitis, a condition characterized by chronic heel pain.

What are the types of custom orthotics?

At Gateway Foot and Ankle Center, the team offers several types of custom orthotics, including:

Rigid orthotics

Rigid orthotics are hard and made from inflexible materials, like plastic. They slip inside closed-toed shoes and help support your arches. The team might prescribe rigid orthotics if you experience leg, thigh, or lower back pain.

Soft orthotics

Soft orthotics feature cushion-like materials. They’re soft, bulky, and need to be worn with prescription shoes. These orthotics take pressure off sensitive areas, like diabetic ulcers, pressure sores, or an inflamed heel.

What does getting custom orthotics involve?

At Gateway Foot and Ankle Center, getting custom orthotics takes two visits about a week apart.

If the team determines that you can benefit, they take 3D digital scans of your feet and ankles. Then, your provider uploads the scans to a computer program and designs a pair of custom orthotics. After finalizing the design, they send your scans to a podiatry lab that manufactures your orthotics.

About a week later, when your orthotics are ready, you return to Gateway Foot and Ankle Center to try them on. Your podiatrist makes adjustments as necessary and provides care instructions.

How long do custom orthotics last?

Custom orthotics last between 5-7 years* on average, but you can extend their use. The team at Gateway Foot and Ankle Center recommends wearing your orthotics as prescribed and visiting the office at least twice a year for routine checkups.

To see if you can benefit from custom orthotics, call the nearest Gateway Foot and Ankle Center office today or book online.

*Individual results may vary.