How Does A Podiatrist Fit Custom Foot Orthotics, And What Should I Expect?

Custom orthotics, also referred to as prescription orthotics, are devices tailored to the unique shape of a person's foot. Shoe inserts like this are very different from the ones you might see advertised on television or in a pharmacy. This is because your podiatrist will make a plaster cast of your foot to produce an orthotic tailored to your needs. Casting for personalized orthotics. In that manner, the orthotic will not only be comfortable and well-fitting but also tailored to your unique gait.

When Visiting A Licensed Chiropodist, What Can I Expect?

Your medical history and the background of your current condition will be reviewed at the beginning of the visit.

The chiropodist will inquire about your current medications, allergies, symptoms related to your condition, line of work, recreational pursuits, and footwear preferences. If you can't remember all of your meds, it's a good idea to carry a list of them along with a couple of pairs of shoes you use frequently.

The next step is an in-depth evaluation of your health and well-being. The chiropodist will analyze your gait and conduct a biomechanical examination to determine if you have any structural or functional abnormalities and how your body compensates for them. You can anticipate a lot of hands-on work and keen observation from your chiropodist during this appointment phase.

The chiropodist will discuss the evaluation results and the possible treatment choices with you, such as whether or not bespoke foot orthotics are appropriate for your situation.

If A Custom Foot Orthotic Is Suggested and Accepted By the Patient, a Cast Will Be Made

By employing plaster of Paris, an STS footwear sock, or a laser scanner, a three-dimensional mold of the foot is made while the patient is in a weight-bearing position. As soon as the casting is complete, your scheduled time is over. Your foot molds will be utilized to create personalized foot orthotics.

Once The Orthotics Have Been Made, You Will Be Called To Schedule A Fitting Appointment, And Then You Can Pick Them Up

At the time of your appointment, your healthcare practitioner will make sure the orthotics are a snug fit in your shoes and do not cause any discomfort. You will also learn what to look for to determine if your orthotics aren't doing their job and how to break in the devices correctly. If you experience any difficulties with the orthotics, your doctor should be able to make adjustments or make new ones.

On-Going Monitoring Is Crucial

Orthotics wear out for a variety of reasons. Activity levels, shoes, materials, foot growth, and foot care are all factors to consider. The first step in preventing further damage to your feet from worn orthotics is keeping a close eye on them. Your podiatrist should examine your orthotics for at least a year. This way, if there is a problem with your orthotics, we can fix it before you notice any discomfort.