Provision of orthotics

Orthoses are devices which are placed inside patients' shoes providing them with relief and support.

What are orthotics?

Foot orthotics are inserts which are used to restore normal foot function. When an individual is on their feet for a long period of time during the day, their feet are often subject to excessive pressures and abnormal forces which can then lead to problems developing at the foot and lower leg. Orthoses work to protect the foot from factors which can contribute to such problems.

Organisation may benefit from the provision of orthotics if they employ a workforce who is on their feet for long periods of time.

How can orthotics help?

Orthoses can work to restore normal foot function in a number of ways helping to treat some common conditions of the foot and ankle by;

Supporting and aligning the structures which make up the foot and ankle
Position the foot in a way that improves overall function
Works in the prevention of foot deformities or corrects and/or accommodates existing deformities.

Who would benefit from the provision of orthotics?

Patients suffering from the following podiatry related conditions would benefit from receiving treatment with orthoses;

Morton's neuroma
Limb length difference
Plantar fasciitis
Corns and callus
Tendonitis
Hallux limitus
Ankle pain
Forefoot pain

An individual who works on their feet for long periods may find that this is a contributing or causative factor in the development of these conditions.

Types of orthotics

There are two main types or orthoses, casted and non casted also known as bespoke and "off the shelf" orthoses. The following is a description of these two services;

Casted Orthotics

Casted orthoses are inserts which are made by taking a cast impression of the patients foot and producing a pair of insoles from this impression. Casted orthoses are bespoke to the patient and are specific to their own needs. Prior to casting, a biomechanical assessment of the patients foot and lower limb function is carried out and it is from the results of this assessment that the podiatrist can decide upon the correct casting for that particular patient.

Non casted orthotics

Non casted orthoses are mass produced manufactured insoles which are developed according to a generic shape of foot. These types of orthoses are often used as a starting treatment before moving on to custom made products if necessary.