What are orthotics?
Orthotics are medical devices used to treat lower and upper leg pain. ‘Orthotics’ are not for everyone and are used in combination with specific strength/exercises for your foot and/or knee pain. In our Ringwood foot Injury Centre, we see and treat hundreds of patients with and without the use of ‘orthotics’ and are best placed to help guide you as to what the best treatment for your condition would be.
What are orthotics used for?
It is the regarded as the most effective treatment for some conditions such as plantar fasciitis (oses) or tibiallis posterior tendonitis in combination with exercises. They are also fantastic when used correctly for the treatment of ball of foot pain like ‘capsulitis’ or great toe (Hallux) pain such as ‘hallux limitus’.
How do they work?
We know that they alter mechanics in the foot and leg by providing a proprioceptive feedback to our feet which alters the timing of muscle contraction in the foot and lower leg. If you change the direction of a force in your foot and leg, then as Newton said this will have an equal and opposite reaction. The prescription of any orthotic should be based upon a complete understanding of how this affects the forces as the affects can be more painful than the initial problem being treated.
How are they made?
Custom Orthotics are made by taking casts of your feet. This may be done with plaster, foam or 3D scanning. Once the mould is taken the specific chosen material is moulded over the shape of your foot and is some cases manufactured in our in-house lab. The choice of material, additions and angle of the casts are bespoke to you and will fit comfortably.
I think I might need Orthotics, where can I get them?
As mentioned, a pair of orthotics isn’t for everyone, however if you do require them we can help. At Footfocus Ringwood we have a new process to manufacture both semi bespoke and fully customised orthotics. Our in-house orthotics can be supplied to you in less than 24 hours. That means your foot pain gets better, faster so you can get back to what you love.