Custom Orthotics – Your Questions Answered

As one of Ireland's most established providers of quality orthotics, we have helped hundreds of patients with their specific medical conditions. Orthotics are an effective treatment for everything from knee pain to Plantar fasciitis. However, we understand that it can be a confusing and even distressing time when orthotics are recommended to a patient. As such, patients have questions about this treatment. To help put individuals' minds at ease, we have compiled some of the most common enquiries below. We must stress that this blog should be used as an information source only and should not be considered a substitute for medical advice.

What are custom orthotics?

Custom orthotics are special shoe inserts designed to fit your feet perfectly. They are typically prescribed by a healthcare professional.

The idea behind custom orthotics is to provide extra support and cushioning to your feet where you need it most. They can help distribute your weight more evenly across your foot, reduce pressure on sensitive areas, and correct any alignment issues contributing to your foot problems.

Custom orthotics are typically made from various materials, such as foam, plastic, or carbon fibre, and they can be designed to fit a wide range of shoe types and sizes. Because they are custom-made for your feet, they can provide support and comfort that off-the-shelf inserts can't match.

How long do custom orthotics last?

Custom orthotics are typically designed to last a few years, but this can vary depending on a few factors. For example, if you're very physically active or put a lot of wear and tear on your orthotics, they may need to be replaced more frequently. On the other hand, if you take good care of them and don't put them through too much strain, they may last longer.

It's essential to monitor your orthotics and check them regularly for any signs of wear and tear. If you notice any damage, it's probably time to replace them. And even if they still look okay, it's a good idea to have them checked by a healthcare professional once a year or so to ensure they're still providing the proper support and correction for your feet.

How much do custom orthotics cost?

The cost of custom orthotics in Ireland can vary depending on factors such as the type of orthotics, the materials used, and the provider. We can discuss pricing in our clinic.

What types of conditions do custom orthotics treat

Custom orthotics are designed to treat a wide range of foot conditions and some conditions that may affect other parts of the body. Some common conditions that custom orthotics can help with include:

Plantar fasciitis: This is a condition where the tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed and painful. Custom orthotics can help by providing support and cushioning to the foot's arch.

Flat feet: This is a condition where the foot arch is very low or non-existent. Custom orthotics can help by providing extra support and cushioning to the foot, reducing pain and improving overall foot function.

High arches: This is a condition where the foot arch is very high. Custom orthotics can help by providing extra support and cushioning to the foot, which can help redistribute pressure and reduce pain.

Overpronation: This is a condition where the foot rolls too far inward when walking or running. Custom orthotics can help by providing support and stabilization to the foot, which can help improve alignment and reduce pain.

Knee pain: Custom orthotics can also help with knee pain caused by osteoarthritis, as they can help improve alignment and reduce pressure on the knee joint.

Do you have any more questions on custom orthotics? Then please get in contact with our clinic directly. We would be more than happy to discuss your individual needs in detail.