Orthotics are podiatry devices worn in your shoe to support and align your foot with the goal of correcting any foot deformities or dysfunctions present. There are two ways to obtain orthotics. The first way is over-the-counter (OTC) at a pharmacy or some shoe stores. These are designed for the general population and usually chosen for their affordability and quick accessibility. The other option is custom-made orthotics. These are created from a mold taken of your foot and modified to encourage correction. Custom orthotics are more effective because they are fitted exactly to your foot and designed to correct your specific foot dysfunctions. Orthotics can be used to treat a variety of podiatry conditions including Flat Feet, Hammertoe, and Achilles Tendonitis.
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Common Myths About Custom Orthotics
Despite their effectiveness in treating foot dysfunctions there are several myths about orthotics that may prevent people from selecting this easy and non-invasive orthotic treatment. Here we will debunk some of the most common misconceptions.
OTC Orthotics Are Just As Good As Custom Orthotics
OTC orthotics have a couple of benefits:
- They are affordable: When patients do not have insurance coverage for custom orthotics, this OTC option can help them find some relief and support at an affordable price.
- They are easy to get: The process of custom molding orthotics can take some time and over-the-counter orthotics can provide a quick fix.
OTC orthotics are designed for an average foot and can offer such supports as gel and memory foam padding and constructed arch supports, but they do not address dysfunction specific to your foot and step and will not offer the same capacity to address painful conditions or correct your foot as a custom orthotics.
Orthotics Are For Seniors
Orthotics are often associated with old people and big, clunky shoes. But in reality people at every age can benefit from the support, correction, and enhanced functionality that orthotics provide. Orthotics are even used by competitive athletes to enhance performance and avoid injury. Orthotics are a great tool to address conditions resulting from injury or overuse so more invasive treatments like surgery can be avoided.
Orthotics Encourage Dependency and Can Make Your Feet Weak
Orthotics can improve mobility, enhance function, limit tissue stress, and relieve pain. The truth is that your feet will never become dependent on orthotics. In fact, the correct custom orthotics will provide vital support to your muscular-skeletal system by realigning your feet and supporting your gait. This can even help relieve hip, back, and neck pain and improve posture.
Orthotics Are Uncomfortable And May Hurt Your Feet While You Break Them In
Custom Orthotics should never hurt your feet, cause blisters or sore spots, or negatively impact your step! There are some orthotics that are firm to aid in correction and some that are soft that are designed more for cushioning or support, but any orthotic your foot doctor provides should be adjusted and refined to fit your foot perfectly. It can take a short period of time to get used to your orthotics and a little discomfort during this period is not uncommon, but if you are experiencing pain from your new custom orthotics, tell your podiatrist so the appropriate modifications can be made.
Happy, Healthy Feet With Custom Orthotics From Your NYC Podiatrists
Custom Orthotics are an effective and non invasive treatment options for conditions like:
- Heel Spurs
- Flat Feet
- Arthritis
- Bunions
- High Arches
- Hammertoe
- Corns and Calluses
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Gait Imbalances
- Shin Splints
- Hallux Limitus/Rigidus, and more
If you are suffering from any sort of foot pain, or even knee, hip, back, or neck pain, custom orthotics might be a good option for you. You do not have to suffer from chronic and debilitating pain related to foot or ankle dysfunction.
Our expert team of NYC foot doctors can expertly assess your condition or injury and recommend the most ideal course of treatment to get you up your feet again. We provide accurate diagnosis and comprehensive foot and ankle care and have the tools necessary to provide a variety of tailored treatment approaches at each of our Manhattan Podiatry Clinics. If you are experiencing any sort of foot or ankle pain, call To Healthy Feet Podiatry at 1-917-398-3668 or fill out the contact form to book your appointment today.
FAQ
Q: Which option is right for me: custom or OTC orthotics? A: Custom molded orthotics will always provide the most personalized support and correction for your foot condition because they are created specifically for you. Over-the-counter options can help with certain conditions and are a more affordable option.
Q: My insurance does not cover orthotics, What now? A: If you want to explore the more affordable option of OTC foot orthotics we would still recommend visiting your podiatrist so they may guide you to seek the features that will help you get the most out of your OTC orthotics.
Q: How long do custom orthotics take? A: After your casting, custom orthotics will take 4-6 weeks to be created.
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