What are orthotics?
Orthotics are custom-designed, cushioning shoe inserts that fit the unique contours of your foot and alleviate any foot pathologies you may have.
Custom-designed orthotics precisely balance your foot so that it's in a healthy and functional position during each stage of a gait cycle. Depending on your needs, Dr. Sands may order orthotics that are molded for off-weight bearing, semi-weight bearing, or full weight-bearing.
What conditions benefit from orthotics?
Orthotics can correct numerous foot disorders and anatomical abnormalities. Some conditions that Dr. Sands improves with custom-designed orthotics include:
- Heel spurs or heel pain
- Ball-of-foot pain
- Ankle pain
- Pronation
- Chronic shin splints
- Runner’s knee
- Collapsed arch
- Plantar fasciitis
How do I know if I need orthotics?
Dr. Sands takes a detailed history and performs a comprehensive physical examination to determine whether you would benefit from orthotics.
Can I buy orthotics over the counter?
Over-the-counter shoe inserts may work just fine for you. However, if your pain persists, you may benefit from inserts that are tailor-made for your unique foot.
What happens when I get orthotics?
If Dr. Sands recommends orthotics, he tests your range-of-motion and muscle strength in the affected foot. These tests help him identify issues such as weak, loose, or overly tight muscles or tendons. In some cases, he may perform an in-office ultrasound to get a better look at your soft tissues, or he may order an X-ray to check for bone spurs or fractures.
He then has you sit and place your foot into a mold in a neutral position. Dr. Sands sends the mold to a laboratory along with his specifications for how to manufacture the orthotic so that it corrects your foot disorder and creates a comfortable and healthy gait.
When your orthotics are ready, Dr. Sands ensures that they fit correctly. You return to the office in a couple of weeks for a follow-up visit so that Dr. Sands can verify that the orthotics are working well and that your pain and foot problems have improved.
When you want relief from foot pain, contact Dr. Sands about custom-designed orthotics. You can book a consultation online or call his supportive staff.
