If you’ve visited us here at Your Next Step, you may have heard one of our podiatrists mention the many foot health benefits of orthotics. Orthotic devices support and comfort your feet.
Importantly, orthotics are custom-made to fit only your foot and only for your diagnosed condition. In this they are far different from non-prescription shoe inserts that are available at many retail stores or online. Shoe inserts may provide temporary comfort but they can’t cure chronic foot issues or biomechanical foot problems.
Custom Orthotics Treat Many Foot and Ankle Conditions
Orthotics may be accommodative or functional. Accommodative orthotics provide cushioning and support to relieve pain. The problems and pain related to foot and ankle motion require a more rigid or functional orthotic.
Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen routinely prescribe orthotics to help patients with foot pain including those with:
- Bunions
- Corns and calluses
- Heel pain or plantar fasciitis
- High arches or flat foot
- Tendinitis
- Toe ailments such as hammertoe and clawtoe
- Diabetic foot ulcers
- Foot and ankle pain
- Degenerative diseases
- Misalignments
Making Orthotics is Specific to Each Patient
Once your podiatrist has diagnosed your foot issue and recommended custom orthotics, the fitting process is handled right in our Ardmore or Paoli, PA office. We use innovative technology to scan your foot to get a computerized foot analysis. This analysis helps the laboratory create an orthotic that exactly fits your foot and will address your unique foot condition and gait. Sometimes we make a mold from a plaster cast of your foot to ensure an exact match.
Custom made orthotics are more durable than over-the-counter shoe inserts. They are made of top-quality materials and will last for years with proper care. Orthotics should be kept in good shape with regular washing using a towel with lukewarm water and a mild soap.
If you have any foot or ankle pain, call or email us today for an appointment. The foot doctors at Your Next Step in the greater Philadelphia area are experts in diagnosing and treating a wide variety of foot and ankle problems with state-of-the-art technology including ordering custom orthotics right here in our offices. We hope to see you soon!