How Our Vancouver Foot Doctors Use Custom Orthotics as a Non-Invasive Treatment Option
Are foot problems slowing you down? Why buy something off-the-shelf when we’re available to create custom orthotics that fit your unique needs. At Clover Podiatry, we believe everyone deserves to be free of foot pain, and our friendly and skilled professionals offer a personalized, solution-oriented approach dedicated to making that happen.
Whether you're an athlete seeking a competitive edge, a professional standing on your feet all day, a person looking to prevent a diabetic foot ulcer from worsening, or simply someone yearning for relief from nagging foot or heel pain, our custom orthotics can make a real difference in your quality of life.
What Conditions Benefit From an Orthotic?
Custom orthotics are a conservative treatment option that can address a range of foot conditions. Our podiatrists usually prescribe one of two types:
- Accommodative orthotics are soft inserts that offer extra support and cushioning. Many of our patients find them helpful to alleviate discomfort from issues such as corns, calluses, and diabetic foot ulcers.
- Functional orthotics are more rigid, designed to provide structure and correct abnormal motion, uneven gait, and certain injuries such as shin splints and tendonitis.
Using orthotics as a non-invasive solution, combined with certain lifestyle modifications, may be the right course of treatment for you for the following conditions.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain. It involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot. Custom orthotics can provide the necessary arch support to alleviate the strain on the plantar fascia tendon, reducing pain and promoting healing.
Flat Feet
Approximately 30 percent of people have flat feet, and some of us develop this condition as we get older. You may experience considerable discomfort and even suffer other issues, such as knee and back pain. Custom orthotics are designed to provide the support that flat feet lack, helping to distribute weight more evenly and improve overall alignment.
High Arches
Conversely, if you have high arches, you might struggle with foot pain due to excessive pressure on the ball and heel of your foot. Orthotics that offer additional cushioning and support reduce impact and prevent related complications like calluses and ankle instability.
Bunions
A bunion is a bony protrusion that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. As this deformity develops, it causes foot pain and toe misalignment. Custom orthotics help by redistributing pressure away from the bunion and providing better foot alignment.
Arthritis
If you suffer from severe pain and mobility issues due to arthritis, it’s possible we can design insoles to address a number of issues. A few benefits our patients report with individualized fittings include better cushioning and support, reduced stress on joints, and improved foot function.
Diabetes
Diabetic foot conditions require special care to prevent ulcers and other complications. You might choose custom orthotics for extra cushioning, more structure to protect your feet, and to enhance overall foot health.
Sports Injuries
Athletes often suffer from various foot and ankle injuries. Custom orthotics can aid in recovery by providing support, correcting imbalances, and preventing further complications.
How Custom Orthotics Are Different From Over-the-Counter Inserts
Not all orthotics are created equal. Custom orthotics are designed specifically for your feet. In contrast, pre-packaged retail options are mass-produced to fit various foot types. While they may initially provide some level of comfort, they lack the tailored fit that custom orthotics offer. Other differences between professional prescription orthotics and off-the-shelf inserts include:
- High-quality materials. Custom supports, insoles, heel liners, and cushions are created to withstand the daily stresses placed on your feet. They’re built to last, often providing years of reliable support. On the other hand, over-the-counter inserts are typically made from less durable materials and may need to be replaced more frequently.
- Targeted support. The orthotics we design at Clover Podiatry are designed to address specific foot conditions and provide targeted support where you need it most. For example, if you have plantar fasciitis, your device will have built-in features to support the plantar fascia tendon and reduce strain. Over-the-counter inserts offer generalized support and of course, no professional care, which may not be sufficient for addressing specific medical conditions.
- Cost considerations. While custom orthotics are more expensive upfront compared to over-the-counter inserts, they offer better long-term value and may be covered by insurance. Their durability, effectiveness, and comprehensive care provided by our podiatrists can ultimately save you money by reducing the need for other treatments and preventing further complications.
At Clover Podiatry, our goal is to find the best non-invasive remedy available for your condition if it's a viable solution. We conduct a thorough examination, evaluating all aspects of biometrics—including gait analysis and foot impressions—to accurately diagnose your issue and create orthotics that match the unique shape and contours of your feet. This personalized approach ensures a perfect fit, which is crucial for effective support and pain relief. We also provide a detailed assessment of your foot health, follow-up appointments to monitor progress, and adjustments to the orthotics as needed so you receive the most benefit from individualized professional care.