‘Orthoses’ or ‘Orthotics’ are custom made devices prescribed by your podiatrist, which take into account the structural imbalances of your feet and body. Traditionally, orthotics are designed to balance the biomechanical and structural imbalances present within your feet and legs. We feel most people should try over the counter arch supports first. However, while they will match some peoples’ arches, others may find the support too high or low, or too far back or forward. The most common reasons people use foot orthoses are for arch and heel pain(Plantar Fasciitis), lower leg tendonitis ( problem with the Achilles and posterior tibial tendon, and “shin splints”) and for knee pain, such as chondromalacia patellae, iliotibial band syndrome and “runner’s knee.” Foot orthoses are made from casts or scans of the feet, and incorporate measurements of your foot and legs and limb length assessment, as well as your exact medical condition. Orthoses can also be important in preventing the development of any deformities in the feet. This may be important for children.
