TORONTO FOOT SPECIALIST DISCUSSES DIFFERENT TYPES OF ORTHOTICS

Orthotics, also known as orthoses, refer to devices inserted into a patient's shoe. Orthotics are intended to correct an abnormal walking/gait pattern that may be responsible for that patient's discomfort such as heel and arch pain (plantar fasciitis) and nerve (neuroma) pain along with other symptomatic foot issues. Orthotics will allow the patient to stand, walk, and run more efficiently and comfortably. While over-the-counter arch supports are available and may help a patient with mild symptoms, they normally cannot correct the wide range of symptoms that prescription foot orthotics can.

Orthotic devices come in many shapes, sizes, and materials and fall into the following three main categories:

 

Functional Orthotics
Functional foot orthotics are designed to control function and are used primarily for any activity with a heel-toe gait such as walking, hiking, running, jogging etc. The purpose of functional foot orthotics are to compensate for the abnormal biomechanics that may be responsible for the patient's particular foot problem They are often composed of a firm material, such as plastic or carbon fiber. Functional orthotics are made from a plaster cast or scan of the patient's feet. Functional orthotics control motion in the two major foot joints that lie directly below the ankle joint and in addition to treating foot pathology may improve or eliminate strains, aches, and pains in the legs, thighs, and lower back.

Accomodative Orthotics
Accommodative orthotics are generally softer devices used to absorb shock, increase balance, and reduce the pressure on painful areas of the feet. They are very effective for diabetic, arthritic, and deformed feet. Accommodative orthotics are typically made up of cushioned materials so that they can be worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel past the ball of the foot, including the toes. Like functional orthotics, accommodative orthotics may be made from a plaster cast, foam impression or scan of the patient's feet.

Semi-Rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotics provide foot balance for walking or participating in sports. The typical semi-rigid orthotic is made up of layers of soft material, reinforced with more rigid materials. Semi-rigid orthotics are often prescribed for children to treat flatfoot and in-toeing or out-toeing disorders. These orthotics are also used to help athletes mitigate pain while they train and compete.

 

PROFESSIONAL FOOT CLINIC

416-465-8737

Toronto, ON Chiropodist Academy Foot and Orthotic

752 BROADVIEW AVENUE Toronto, ON M4K 2P1 

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