Orthotics Specialist

What are orthotics?

Orthotics are prescription devices for your feet. The Chicagoland Foot and Ankle team takes individual measurements and molds of your feet to make custom inserts that slide into your shoes. 

They can fabricate orthotics for athletic shoes, dress shoes, and even high heels, depending on your needs. 

There are two primary orthotic categories: functional and accommodative. 

Functional

Functional orthotics reposition your foot to correct your movement patterns when you have an issue like Achilles tendonitis. Although you won’t feel them working, functional orthotics make subtle but critical changes that can end many chronic foot issues.

Accommodative 

Accommodative orthotics protect the weak or damaged areas, such as diabetic foot ulcers. They pad and protect in the specific areas most prone to problems.

Custom orthotics are often an important part of the recovery plan when you have chronic foot conditions or injuries. They're also a key part of preventive foot care. 

When do I need orthotics?

There are many reasons you might need orthotics. Some of the conditions and issues the Chicagoland Foot and Ankle team commonly recommends custom orthotics for include:

• Flat feet
• Plantar fasciitis
• Bunions
• Diabetic foot ulcers
• Morton's neuroma
• Osteoarthritis
• Achilles tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Calluses
  
  

Custom orthotics often relieve foot and heel pain, but can also help with ankle, leg, hip, and even back pain in some cases. 

Almost 60% of Americans have regular heel pain because their shoes don't fit properly. If your shoes never give you the proper support, orthotics can fix the fit and resolve underlying foot and ankle issues at the same time. 

How often do I need to replace orthotics?

Chicagoland Foot and Ankle uses only top-quality materials, such as premium foams and carbon graphite, to create orthotics. Custom orthotics last for years if you take good care of them. 

When you have an appointment at Chicagoland Foot and Ankle, bring your orthotics along so the team can check them for wear-and-tear and damage. By simply wearing supportive shoes and custom orthotics, you can often prevent pain, avoid problems, and boost your foot function. 

With every step you take, each of your feet absorbs 1.5 times your body weight. Ease that burden and keep your feet functioning at their peak with custom orthotics from Chicagoland Foot and Ankle. Call the office nearest you or book an appointment online.