fbpx
Your Guide To Doctors, Health Information, and Better Health!
Your Health Magazine Logo
The following article was published in Your Health Magazine. Our mission is to empower people to live healthier.
Nicole Testani, DPM
Shoe Inserts and Prescription Orthotics What's the Difference?
Bull Run Foot & Ankle Clinic
. http://www.bullrunfootclinic.com

Shoe Inserts and Prescription Orthotics What's the Difference?

What Are Shoe Inserts?

You've seen them at the grocery store and at the mall. Pre-packaged arch supports are shoe inserts. Unless the device has been prescribed by a doctor and crafted for your specific foot, it's a shoe insert, not a custom orthotic device-despite what the ads might say.

Shoe inserts can cushion your feet and provide comfort, but they can't correct biomechanical foot problems or cure long-standing foot issues.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

The American Podiatric Medical Association describes custom orthotics as specially-made devices designed to support and comfort your feet. Prescription orthotics are crafted for you and no one else. They match the contours of your feet precisely and are designed for the way you move. Orthotics are only manufactured after a podiatrist has conducted a complete evaluation of your feet, ankles, and legs, so the orthotic can accommodate your unique foot structure and pathology.

Prescription orthotics are designed to control abnormal motion. They may be used to treat foot pain caused by abnormal motion; they can also be used to treat injuries such as shin splints or tendinitis.

Accommodative orthotics are softer and meant to provide additional cushioning and support. They can be used to treat diabetic foot ulcers, painful calluses on the bottom of the foot, and other uncomfortable conditions.

Podiatrists use orthotics to treat foot problems, such as plantar fasciitis, bursitis, tendinitis, diabetic foot ulcers, and foot, ankle, and heel pain. Clinical research studies have shown that podiatrist-prescribed foot orthotics decrease foot pain and improve function.

Orthotics typically cost more than shoe inserts purchased in a retail store, but the additional cost is usually well worth it. Unlike shoe inserts, orthotics are molded to fit each individual foot, so you can be sure that your orthotics fit and do what they're supposed to do. Prescription orthotics are also made of top-notch materials and last many years when cared for properly. Insurance often helps pay for prescription orthotics.

If you have serious pain or discomfort, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist. He or she will assess your overall health and look for any other contributing factors. Today's podiatrists are specially trained to evaluate the biomechanics of the lower extremities. Your podiatrist might also suggest additional treatments to improve the comfort and function of your feet.

www.yourhealthmagazine.net
MD (301) 805-6805 | VA (703) 288-3130