Orthotics are devices used to help with bone and muscle disorders of the ankle and foot. Orthotics come in many varieties, ranging from insoles to be inserted into the shoe to large braces. Orthotics are designed to help correct foot positioning and gait problems that can occur as a result of ankle and foot disorders. These devices may need to be worn for only a short period of time or for life, depending on the specific pathology.
Step 1
Pick a design. Depending on your foot problem, you may need a full ankle and foot brace, or just some insoles. It is important to balance clinical benefit with practicality; i.e. there is no sense in getting a bulky brace if you will rarely wear it. Your podiatrist will be able to help you decide which option works best for you.
Step 2
Choose between custom and prefabricated orthotics. Custom orthotics are designed from a cast of your foot and are generally more comfortable than prefabricated orthotics. The benefit, however, varies both with your foot dimensions and your particular foot problem. A podiatrist can help you decide if a custom orthosis is worth the extra cost.
Step 3
Choose a material. Orthotics are typically made out of either milled polypropylene, vacuumed polypropylene or graphite composite. Milled polypropylene is typically the most rigid material, with vacuumed polypropylene and graphite being more flexible. Depending on your exact pathology, you may need either a more rigid or flexible device. Check with your podiatrist.
Step 4
Select the dimensions of the orthosis. There are a variety of "cast fills" that essentially determines how deep the heel section is, as well as the height of the arch and the width of the orthosis. Talk to your podiatrist about the dimensions that your orthosis will need.
Step 5
Consider different orthosis additions. Once you have worn your orthotic device for a period of time, you may notice that specific parts of the device cause pain or discomfort in your foot. Your podiatrist can either modify the orthosis or make additions that will help relieve this discomfort.
