Each of us has struggled with agonizing foot pain at one point or another. Maybe it’s those first few steps in the morning that feel like you’re walking on broken glass, or a burning sensation across the balls of your feet that intensifies throughout the workday. While you know that pain is a signal that something is wrong, you might be frustrated at this point after trying over-the-counter products that don’t seem to help.
Custom orthotics may be the solution. Our Idaho podiatrists at Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle in Caldwell and Meridian create prescription orthotic devices designed specifically for your foot structure and condition. By properly evaluating your condition and then aligning your feet and providing targeted support where you need it most, custom orthotics can help you return to the pain-free activities you love.
Biomechanical Benefits of Custom Orthotics to Reduce Foot Pain
The American Podiatric Medical Association defines the two types of orthotics your foot doctor may prescribe:
- “Functional orthotics are designed to control abnormal motion. They may be used to treat foot pain caused by abnormal motion; they can also be used to treat injuries such as shin splints or tendinitis. Functional orthotics are usually crafted of a semi-rigid material such as plastic or graphite.”
- “Accommodative orthotics are softer and meant to provide additional cushioning and support. They can be used to treat diabetic foot ulcers, painful calluses on the bottom of the foot, and other uncomfortable conditions.”
As you can see, custom orthotics relieve chronic foot pain in several distinct ways, working with your body's natural structure to provide comprehensive relief. Here are more details that may apply to what you're experiencing.
Eliminating Pressure Points
Redistributing pressure across the entire foot lessens concentrated areas of stress that cause sharp or burning pain. Additionally, targeted arch support reduces the strain on overworked tendons and ligaments, which often leads to conditions like plantar fasciitis.
Correcting Abnormal Walking Patterns
When your feet roll inward too much, known as overpronation, or don't roll inward enough, referred to as supination, this creates uneven wear on your joints and tissues. Custom orthotics guide your feet into proper alignment with each step, which not only relieves immediate discomfort but helps prevent the pain from returning.
Providing Shock Absorption
Unlike generic insoles that offer the same cushioning throughout, prescription orthotics can be designed with varying levels of support to relieve chronic foot pain: softer in sensitive areas and firmer where extra stability is required. This personalized approach helps reduce the impact forces that trigger discomfort when walking or standing.
Stabilizing Your Foot Mechanics
Many people with persistent pain have one area that hurts, but the real problem often stems from how their foot moves as a whole. Custom orthotics address this by supporting all three arches of your foot—the medial, lateral, and transverse. This treatment creates a better foundation that reduces strain on painful areas while preventing new problems from developing.
Addressing Condition-Specific Issues
Many of our patients who manage diabetes or arthritis need additional foot care to prevent unnecessary complications. At Rocky Mountain Foot & Ankle, our podiatrists frequently prescribe orthotic insoles designed to cradle sensitive joints or provide extra cushioning in areas prone to ulceration. This targeted approach helps manage pain while protecting vulnerable parts of your feet from further damage.
Our Custom Orthotic Treatment Process
At our clinics in Caldwell and Meridian, we first conduct a comprehensive examination that includes noting all your symptoms and overall health profile and analyzing your gait and walking pattern. If our assessment indicates that orthotic inserts can relieve your foot pain, we utilize advanced technology to ensure your orthotics provide maximum benefit.
In this video, we take you step-by-step through the orthotics measurement and scanning process. Remember, these aren’t off-the-shelf devices: we’re designing them specifically for your condition and follow-up frequently to adjust the fit as needed.
Custom orthotics provide the most benefit when their use matches your lifestyle and specific foot condition. For many of our patients, wearing orthotics consistently during all weight-bearing activities is best to avoid foot pain. This includes office workers who stand all day, retail employees walking on hard surfaces, and athletes during training and competition.
However, not everyone needs to wear their orthotics 24/7. If we prescribe custom inserts for a specific sports-related issue, you might only need them during those activities. For example, runners might wear their orthotics primarily in their running shoes but not in casual footwear.
End foot pain with a noninvasive yet effective treatment solution. Schedule an appointment in one of our offices today to learn more.