Foot orthoses
Foot orthoses are shoe inserts designed to support, align or improve the function of the foot. They are commonly referred to as "orthotics". Orthoses fit comfortably inside your shoes.
There are many different kinds of orthoses. The orthoses prescribed by our podiatrists are prescription devices, custom-made to suit your individual needs and biomechanics (the way your body moves).
WHO WEARS ORTHOSES?
People of all ages with a variety of foot or lower leg problems wear orthoses. Sports people are often prescribed orthoses by podiatrists to help maximise their performance as well as to address mechanical problems.
Anyone suffering form a chronic foot or lower limb condition which is limiting their mobility or independence may benefit from wearing orthoses.
WHEN ARE ORTHOSES USED?
Our podiatrists may prescribe orthoses for your particular foot problem after a comprehensive assessment, taking into account your biomechanics, footwear, occupation and lifestyle. Orthoses offer important long-term solutions in the treatment and prevention of corns, callous and ulceration by redistributing the pressure of the body's weight on the feet.
Orthoses also aid in the rehabilitation of acute and chronic foot conditions such as tendinitis, recurrent ankle sprain and stress fractures, by providing consistent postural control.
A PERSONALISED APPROACH
You will be given a care plan from our podiatrists when you are prescribed orthoses. You will discuss the diagnosis with your podiatrist at your assessment appointment where they will explain the type of orthoses to be prescribed, proposed footwear to wear with your orthoses, lifestyle changes you may need to make, as well as any additional treatment which may be required.
WHAT TYPE OF ORTHOSES ?
Cushioning orthoses provide cushioning and padding underfoot with shock absorption during walking.
Pressure relief orthoses also offer additional relief by redistributing the pressure on problem areas of the foot.
Moulded cast or non-cast prefabricated orthoses offer similar features with superior fit with the benefit of being customised to your individual needs by our podiatrists.
Customised kinetic orthoses offer all of these features, plus the benefit of postural re-alignment
HIGH STANDARD OF TREATMENT AND FOLLOW UP
Podiatrists are the primary health care practitioners for disorders of the foot and lower leg, dealing not only with diagnosis and treatment, but also prevention and rehabilitation. When prescribing orthoses, podiatrists offer a comprehensive service to ensure safe and effective foot care, including:
- A full clinical assessment of your foot problem prior to prescription.
- Video Gait Analysis.
- Prescription orthoses tailored to individual needs.
- Provision of additional treatment required
- Advice regarding exercises, footwear and training methods where relevant
- Complete control over prescribing, making and fitting your orthoses.
- Comprehensive follow-up, including initial and on-going treatment plan.
- The fine tuning or correction of any problems experienced in wearing the orthoses.
