Custom orthotics

Orthotics and shoe modifications can relieve pressure, improve stability and support how your foot functions. Your specialist may recommend them if you have: 

• Heel pain or plantar fasciitis
• Flat feet, high arches or other alignment concerns
• Arthritis in the feet or ankles
• Diabetic foot conditions that require added protection
• Bunions, hammer toes, Morton's neuroma or metatarsalgia
• Sprains, tendonitis or fractures that have affected your walking pattern
• Ongoing symptoms after foot or ankle surgery 

Your care team will talk with you about your daily activities, pinpoint areas of concern and decide whether orthotics, shoe modifications or other treatments are right for you. 

Orthotics and shoe modifications are nonsurgical approaches used to relieve pain and support proper foot function. Recommendations are based on your diagnosis and lifestyle needs and may include: 

• Functional orthotics: Help guide foot alignment and reduce stress on joints and soft tissues
• Accommodative orthotics: Provide cushioning to protect sensitive areas, often used for arthritis or diabetes-related concerns
• Heel lifts and wedges: Help address leg length differences and improve foot positioning
• Protective inserts and padding: Provide targeted pressure relief inside footwear
• Shoe modifications: May include sole adjustments for stability, rocker bottoms to reduce pressure on the front of the foot or a widened toe box to reduce irritation 

When appropriate, orthotics are custom-made using impressions or digital measurements to ensure a proper fit. If your condition requires further evaluation, your specialist may discuss whether additional treatment, including surgery, is needed.

During your visit, your specialist will review your symptoms, examine your feet and ankles and may watch you walk to assess your gait. You'll also have a chance to discuss your goals and ask questions about your treatment. 

If orthotics are recommended, expect the following steps: 

1. Your care team will guide you through the fitting process and suggest the right footwear
2. You'll learn how to gradually increase wear time so your body can adjust
3. Follow-up visits let your care team check your progress and make any needed adjustments 

With the right support and ongoing care, orthotics and shoe modifications can help reduce strain and improve day-to-day comfort over time. 

Orthotics and shoe modifications are generally well tolerated, though some patients may notice temporary discomfort while adjusting to a new fit. Wearing orthotics for a limited time each day at first, as your specialist recommends, can help your feet adjust gradually. 

Your care team will discuss what to expect, answer your questions and make adjustments as needed so your orthotics or footwear changes fit comfortably and support your daily activities.