Indications for Orthotics can include:

• Excessive pronation or flat foot
• Excessively high arches/rigid feet
• Heel pain
• Arch pain/Plantar Fascitis
• Diabetic or sensory impaired feet
• Chronic foot, knee, hip or back pain
• Following traumatic injury or surgery

Physical Therapists recognize the importance of evaluating foot and ankle function in patients who have spinal and lower extremity dysfunction. Abnormal biomechanics at the foot can not only put additional stress on the joints and soft tissue of the foot but also the knee, hip and back. If an individual is very active, these stresses can have an even greater cumulative effect often resulting in sprains, strains, tendonitis, plantar fascitis or chronic pain.

An orthotic is an insert that is worn in the shoe to support and control the compensation. By supporting the foot in a more neutral position, soft tissue and joint stress is minimized. Orthotics do not correct the abnormal mechanics but instead support them, and can enable an individual to walk or run without pain. An orthotic evaluation includes a thorough assessment of the lower extremities, standing posture and gain analysis. If it is determined than an orthotic is indicated, a plaster cast will be made of the foot, which is then used as a form to make the orthotic a custom fit and specific to your needs. The materials used may range from soft to very firm depending on the goals.