Custom Foot Orthotics
Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts that act to correct abnormal foot motion by changing the manner in which the foot contacts the ground. This provides the proper support needed to stabilize the foot and reduce mechanical strain to the entire musculoskeletal system.
The feet represent an important link in the body, as they form the contact point between our body and the ground. When the foot is in contact with the ground, the foot and the entire lower extremity form what is know as a “closed-kinetic chain” – meaning motion at the foot will also affect the movement of the rest of the body, particularly the knee, hip, pelvis, and low back. As a result of this relationship, problems occurring at the foot will often result in excessive strain to be transferred up the leg. In this sense, foot dysfunction can be a significant factor in pain and dysfunction of not only the foot, but in the leg, pelvis, and spine as well. Therefore, when foot dysfunction is present it often needs to be addressed.
Some types of foot dysfunction can be treated with chiropractic care, such as joint manipulation or MRT. Unfortunately, in many cases foot dysfunction often results from the way in which the bones of the lower leg or foot were formed, or from injury to the supporting ligaments of the foot and ankle. This is known as a structural problem and cannot be fully addressed solely by manual methods. When this is the case orthotics are indicated.
Custom foot orthotics are made specifically to fit in your shoes. Different types of orthotics can be made to suit a running shoe or work boot, casual or dress shoe. We usually recommend that your orthotics be made to fit the type of shoe you wear the most.
The examination performed by our chiropractor to fit you for orthotics is billed as a chiropractic service. Cost of the orthotic is billed separately from the service to fit you for orthotics. Most private health insurance plans cover the cost (or partial cost) of a pair of custom-orthotics. Most plans require a medical doctor’s referral for orthotics to be covered by your plan. Please check with your health insurance provider for the details of your plan before being fitted for orthotics in our office.