What
are foot orthoses?
Foot
orthoses are shoe inserts designed to support, align, or
improve the function of the foot. They are also often
commonly referred to as ‘orthotics’. Orthoses fit
comfortably inside your shoes.
There are many different kinds of
orthoses. The orthoses recommended by your podiatrist
are prescription devices, custom-made to suit your
individual needs and biomechanics (the way your body
moves).
Who
wears orthoses?
People
of all ages with a variety of foot or lower leg problems
wear orthoses. Sportspeople are often prescribed
orthoses by their podiatrist to help maximise their
performance, as well as to address mechanical problems.
Anyone suffering from a chronic foot or lower limb
condition, which is limiting their mobility or
independence, may benefit from wearing orthoses.
When
are orthoses used?
Your
podiatrist may prescribe orthoses for your particular
foot problem after a comprehensive assessment, taking
into account your own biomechanics, footwear, and
occupational and lifestyle factors.
Orthoses
provide valuable long-term solutions in the treatment
and prevention of corns, callous and ulceration by
redistributing the pressure of the body's weight on the
feet. Orthoses also help with rehabilitation of acute
and chronic foot conditions such as tendonitis,
recurrent ankle sprain and stress fractures, by
providing consistent postural control
A
personalised approach
If
orthoses are recommended, your podiatrist will design a
care plan. This plan will outline your diagnosis, the
type of orthoses you have been prescribed, proposed
footwear to wear with your orthoses, lifestyle changes
you may need to make, as well as any additional
treatment which may be required.
What
type of orthoses?
Cushioning
orthoses
provide cushioning and padding underfoot with shock
absorption during walking.
Pressure
relief orthoses
offer additional relief by redistributing the pressure
on problem areas of the foot.
Moulded
cast or
non-cast orthoses offer similar features with
superior fit, whilst prefabricated orthoses
provide relief with the benefits of being customised
by your podiatrist.
Functional
foot (customised kinetic) orthoses
offer all these features, plus the benefit of postural
realignment.
High
standards of treatment and follow up
Podiatrists
are the primary health care practitioners for disorders
of the foot and lower leg, dealing not only with
diagnosis and treatment, but also prevention and
rehabilitation. When prescribing orthoses, your
podiatrist provides a comprehensive service to ensure
safe and effective foot care, including:
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