Custom Orthotics

What are Foot Orthotics?

Foot orthotics are shoe inserts designed to support, align or improve the function of the foot. They are also often referred to as ‘orthoses’. Orthotics can fit comfortably inside your shoes.

What are the different types of Foot Orthotics?

• Custom Made Orthotics

• Cast (Custom made) orthotics which are specifically tailored to the bio mechanical movements of your foot.

• Off The Shelf Orthotics

• Cushioning orthotics - Provide cushioning and padding under the foot with shock absorption during walking.
• Pressure relief orthotics - Offer additional relief by redistributing the pressure on problem areas of the foot.
• Non-cast orthotics - Provide relief with the advantage of being customized by your podiatrist.

Who uses Foot Orthotics?

People of all ages with a variety of foot or lower leg problems wear orthotics. Children and adults who play sport are often prescribed orthotics by their podiatrist to help address biomechanical (the way your foot moves) problems thereby maximizing their performance. Anyone suffering from a chronic foot or lower limb condition which is limiting their mobility or independence can benefit by wearing orthotics.

What kind of foot problems can Foot Orthotics address?

Orthotics can address the following foot problems:

• Foot pain arising due to flat feet (pronated) or high arched feet (supinated)
• Injuries in major tendons due to poor foot posture
• Bunions (displacement of the big toes joint, resulting in widening of the forefoot)
• Chronic corns and calluses which form on the soles of the feet due to abnormal pressure distribution
• Heel pain
• Shin splints - Pain on the shins
• Forefoot pain

Use of correct Orthotics can provide valuable long-term solutions in the treatment and prevention of corns, callous and ulceration. An orthotic assists in redistributing the pressure of the body's weight on the feet.

Orthotics also help with the rehabilitation (by providing consistent postural control) of chronic foot conditions such as tendonitis (injury caused by overuse of tendons), recurrent ankle sprain and stress fractures.

What is the process involved in making Foot Orthotics?

When prescribing orthotics, your Podiatrist at medifoot clinic provides a comprehensive service to ensure complete foot care. This involves,

• A full clinical assessment of your foot problem prior to prescription
• Prescription of orthotics tailored to your individual needs
• Provision of any additional treatment required
• Advice regarding exercises, right footwear and training
• Complete control over prescribing, manufacturing and fitting of your orthotics
• Comprehensive follow-up. Fine-tuning of orthotics post prescription (if required)

How long does it take to see results after wearing Foot Orthotics?

The results vary from individual to individual. After fitting of the orthotic in the appropriate footwear, one should be able to feel the difference very soon.

Is the prescription of Foot Orthotics covered by medicare?

At this stage medicare does not cover prescription of Foot Orthotics.

Does private health insurance cover the cost of Foot Orthotics?

Private Health Insurance may cover the cost depending on the type of ancillary cover an individual is on. To find out if your private health insurance covers the cost of orthotics you may contact your insurance provider. The item code is 221 for orthotics.

What if I have more questions regarding Foot Orthotics?

If you require further clarification, please feel free to contact us