 What are Orthotics?
Custom orthotics are shoe inserts created from plaster molds of the feet. The goals of custom orthotics are to limit abnormal foot motions, provide pressure relief, and accommodate structural deformities of the feet. Often, by impacting foot function, knee, hip, and/or low back dysfunctions are positively affected.
Who would benefit from Orthotics?
A variety of conditions can be helped. Often persons with lower extremity injuries of no known origin have foot problems that can contribute. In addition to most foot problems, orthotics are often used in the treatment of anterior knee pain (patello-femoral joint syndrome), illio-tibial band syndrome, hip tendonitis/bursitis, low-back pain.
THE PROCESS:
Biomechanical Examination:
The lower half of the body is scanned for abnormal motions in both un-weighted and standing positions. Static alignments of the pelvis, legs, and feet are also assessed. Changes in alignment will be noted during various tasks such as squatting, and single leg standing.
Gait Analysis:
Observation of walking and running is vital to lower extremity and back problems. Here we can see the compensations the body makes for any muscle weakness or joint restrictions. Video-taping of gait allows frame-by-frame analysis to determine what phase of the gait cycle abnormal motions is occurring and to educate the patient.
Plaster Casting:
A plaster mold is made of the foot to capture its shape in an un-weighted and neutral position. The mold is then sent to a fabrication lab where the orthotics are made. |
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