A foot orthotic is a custom -made biomechanical device designed  from a plaster casted, or foam impressed , or computer scanned mold of the bottom and a portion of the sides of the foot.  Orthotics can be full length ( from heel to tip of toes ) or partial length.   Orthotics can be functional to assert control on the foot ( usually  a more rigid material ) , or can accomodate tender areas, or sores, using combinations of softer materials and off loading techniques .   Orhotics can be used for sport, working, walking and in a variety of circumstances and for a variety of reasons.  You can click this blue highlighted Orthotic Link for example of one manufacturer's  variety of available orthotics.

 An orthotic is not the same as a pre-made, off the shelf, or TV ordered or other non prescription  adjustable arch support, or an ordinary insole of a shoe.

That is not to say that non-custom products are not useful.  In this office, these less expensive alternatives to custom orhotics are sometimes first used to test whether or not the custom Orthotic is really necessary, or to help predict if a custom device has a reasonable chance of helping your problem.  Since a custom device also takes time to manufacture, interim devices can be a useful stop-gap measure. 

When used in conjunction with a proper shoe,  their use may support or align the foot ; help relieve pain; prevent or correct some deformities; improve or protect the function of other joints and structures, and help maintain certain post operative corrections and improvements.

Insurance coverage varies.  Some insurances will not cover these ( or other durable medical products ) at all. Others, such as HighMark Blue Shield PPO Blue, will cover orthotic use,  in the appropriate medical necessity situations for , a wide variety of symtpoms including painful heel spurs, plantarfasciitis, symtpomatic bunions, painful deep unresolvable corns etc

Rest assured, if you make an appointment in this office, we will together decide on what option of any care is best for you as we evaluate  your diagnosis, level of pain, and other circumstances.  To use, or not use, a custom or non-custom arch support, is one of the many parts of the puzzle that will be considered.