What is a custom orthotic?

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A custom orthotic is a device designed to align the foot and ankle into the most anatomically efficient position. They look like insoles, but are biomechanical medical appliances that are custom made to correct your specific foot imbalance. Custom orthotics work on your feet much like glasses work on your eyes - they reduce stress and strain on your body by bringing your feet back into proper alignment. The plastic body of the custom orthotic helps to re-align the foot by redirecting and reducing certain motion that takes place during the gait cycle. Custom orthotics fit into your shoes as comfortably as an insole - and they have the advantage of having been made from precise imprints of your feet.

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Who can benefit from an orthotic?

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You may be a candidate if you suffer from chronic foot, ankle, knee, hip, or lower back pain.  The way we walk is affected by how our feet contact the ground, if we aren’t absorbing the shocks properly due to poor foot mechanics, this will negatively impact the joints above.  Come in for a complimentary consultation to see if you’re a candidate for a fitting.

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What are the benefits of custom orthotics compared to store-bought insoles?

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Store-bought insoles are not made firm enough to hold up your body weight.  If you hold one in your hand and bend it, you usually can fold the entire insole in half at the arch with one hand, indicating that the material is not firm enough to offer full support.  These will not last you very long and will not be as effective.  Custom orthotics generally should last 2 – 5 years.

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How long do they take to get?

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Generally, it takes two weeks from your assessment date until the insoles arrive completed in our clinic.

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Can I come in for a consultation before committing to purchasing the orthotics?

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YES.  In 7 Hills physio, we do the computerised assessment to answer your questions and also to determine whether or not you require custom orthotic insoles.

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Can children get custom insoles? How do I know if my children need them?

 

If your children are walking abnormally or complaining of foot pain, it is a good idea to first check with the paediatrician to ensure that nothing more serious is taking place.  Once cleared, children over the age of five may be eligible and benefit from orthotics

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