Custom Orthotics and Inserts

WHAT ARE ORTHOTICS?

Orthotics are shoe inserts that are intended to correct an abnormal, or irregular, walking pattern. Orthotics are not truly or solely "arch supports," although some people use those words to describe them, and they perhaps can best be understood with those words in mind. They perform functions that make standing, walking, and running more comfortable and efficient, by altering slightly the angles at which the foot strikes a walking or running surface.

Doctors of podiatric medicine prescribe orthotics as a conservative approach to many foot problems or as a method of control after certain types of foot surgery; their use is a highly successful, practical treatment form.

Orthotics take various forms and are constructed or various materials. All are concerned with improving foot function and minimizing stress forces that could ultimately cause foot deformity and pain.

Foot orthotics fall into three broad categories: those that primarily attempt to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in nature, and those that combine functional control and protection.

ORTHOTICS FOR CHILDREN

Orthotic devices are effective in the treatment of children with foot deformities. Most podiatric physicians recommend that children with such deformities be placed in orthotics soon after they start walking, to stabilize the foot. The devices can be placed directly into a standard shoe, or an athletic shoe.

Usually, the orthotics need to be replaced when the child's foot has grown two sizes. Different types of orthotics may be needed as the child's foot develops, and changes shape.

The length of times a child needs orthotics varies considerably, depending on the seriousness of the deformity and how soon correction is addressed.

OTHER TYPES

Various other orthotics may be used for multidirectional sports or edge-control sports by casting the foot within the ski boot, ice skate boot, or inline skate boot.

BREAK IN AND ENJOY

Like anything in life, it can take a short while to adjust to your new orthotics, You may feel them because they're working with each step to properly position your foot in your shoes. The result comfort and health will have your feet feeling wonderful.
What to expect at first:
When experiencing your custom orthotics for the first time, they should feel firm, but comfortable. The best results come easing into them. We suggest wearing them for two hours the first day, four hours the second day, and six hours the third day, and then full time.

Everyone's feet are different. Give your feet and muscles 10-14 days to adjust to their new support. If you still feel discomfort after this, please call Austin Foot and Ankle Specialists for an appointment.

Mild foot, leg or back discomfort may initially occur when first wearing orthotics. This should decrease with every subsequent day. If pain occurs that was not previously present, wear your devices every other day, and increase wearing time by only ½ hour, until you no longer have pain. (Dr. Thomajan may deviate from these instructions according to your unique condition.)

A low heel shoe such as a gym or tennis shoe should be worn for the first two weeks. After this, the orthotics may be worn in other shoes, providing the heel height does not exceed 1-1/2 inches, or your doctor has specifically prescribed devices for high heels.

Squeaking of the orthotics within the shoes may be eliminated simply by applying powder in the shoes, and applying wax or soap to the front edge of the orthotic. This will help to reduce friction.

Socks should be worn during the adjustment period to minimize any irritation.
Some slipping of the orthotic may occur within the shoe, particularly in women's shoes, but this will usually diminish in about six weeks. If the orthotic does not "seat" properly in the shoe, we recommend you try different shoes or shoe styles.

You may clean the surface of your orthotics with cool water and a mild soap, but do not immerse them in water. Also, never use hot water for cleaning your orthotics, as this may affect the material. Genuine leather orthotic devices may be cleaned with mink oil, saddle soap, or other leather cleaners.
Most importantly, follow your doctor's instructions completely.

Orthotic Wearing Instructions

1.You must gradually adapt to your devices, especially if you have never worn orthotics before. As a rule, wear them one hour the first day, two hours the second day, and increase the wearing time by one hour each day. Normal "break-in" time is from two weeks to two months. Generally, children adapt more rapidly than adults.

Please note: Mild foot, leg or back discomfort may initially occur when first wearing orthotics. This should decrease with every subsequent day. If pain occurs that was not previously present, wear your devices every other day, and increase wearing time by only ½ hour, until you no longer have pain. (Your doctor may deviate from these instructions according to your unique condition.)

2.A low heel shoe such as gym or tennis shoes should be worn for the first two weeks. After this, the orthotics may be worn in other shoes, providing the heel height does not exceed 1-1/2 inches, or your doctor has specifically prescribed devices for high heels.

3."Squeaking" of the orthotics within the shoes may be eliminated simply by applying powder in the shoes, and applying wax or soap to the front edge of the orthotic. This will help to reduce friction.

4.Socks or stockings should be worn during the adjustment period to minimize any irritation

5.Some slipping of the orthotic may occur within the shoe, particularly in women's shoes, but this will usually diminish in about six weeks. If the orthotic does not "seat" properly in the shoe, we recommend you try different shoes or shoe styles.

6.You may clean the surface of your orthotics with cool water and a mild soap, but do no immerse them in water. Also, never use hot water for cleaning your orthotics, as this may affect the material. Genuine leather orthotic devices may be cleaned with mink oil, saddle soap, or other leather cleaners.

Most importantly, follow your doctor's instructions completely.

Dr. Craig Thomajan is a podiatrist at Austin foot and Ankle Specialist located in Austin, Texas. If you would like to learn more about a variety of foot and ankle aliments, you may visit him online at Austin Foot and Ankle