Orthotics

Orthotics are devices used to help many different problems or specifically for pain related to the foot. These problems can be from the simplest of foot pains to complicated changes affecting the knees, hips and/or the spine. Pain may not be the only indication for the need for orthotics, as biomechanical efficiency and control can also be helped with orthotics. Custom orthotics are individually made to fit and correct very specific individual problems and therefore cater to individual needs. Some common indications for an assessment and possible need for custom orthotics are:

  • Constant pain and/or fatigue in the feet
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Heel spurs
  • Achilles tendon pain/tendonitis
  • Consistent morning foot pain and sensitivity
  • Chronic ankle sprains
  • Chronic pain in the heel, knee, hip or back related to foot alignment
  • Foot and toe mal-alignment (eg. bunions, claw toes, hammer toes)
  • Flat or pronated feet
  • High arches or supinated feet
  • Nerve injuries such as Morton’s neuroma

Highly active people or people who spend a great deal of time on their feet, whether for work, sport or recreation, may need more control, support or specialized cushioning to provide better mechanical control and decrease any foot discomfort related to these activities. Custom orthotics are geared toward the specific needs of people who have pain related to mal-alignment problems.

Orthotic fitting requires attention to many details; these include your symptoms as well as a biomechanical analysis of your stance, gait and how your feet are loaded when you walk. A full assessment by your physiotherapist at Salus Physiotherapy, will check the amount of movement, the biomechanics and the position of your feet. Your knee, hip and spinal movements will also be looked at, as they will provide more information for the fitting of an appropriate support or orthotic for you. A cast is made of your feet and then sent to a laboratory. From the impressions of your feet, an orthotic is carefully made and adjusted according to the prescription provided by your physiotherapist.

A follow up appointment will check for fit and comfort and you will be given guidelines for proper “break in” periods to ensure you get the most benefit from your custom orthotic. If any minor adjustments are needed they will be addressed at this time so that the best possible fit is achieved in order to help reduce your pain and any other symtoms.

Analysis and casting at Salus is provided by a registered physiotherapist with an extensive background in biomechanics related to sport, ergonomics and recreational activities