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Custom Orthotics

Orthotics are devices designed to support and improve the way your feet function during standing, walking and sport.

While orthotics can be highly effective for some conditions, they are not the answer for every patient. At Foot, Ankle & Body Experts, we believe treatment should be tailored to the individual. For some people this may involve orthotics, while others may benefit more from rehabilitation, footwear modifications, shockwave therapy, strengthening exercises or other treatments.

Before recommending orthotic therapy, we perform a thorough assessment to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms. This assessment combines a detailed biomechanical examination with real-time diagnostic ultrasound imaging, allowing us to evaluate both how your foot and lower limb function and the health of the underlying tissues. This helps ensure that any orthotic prescribed is appropriate for your condition and forms part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

What Conditions Can Orthotics Help With?

Orthotics may be beneficial for a wide range of foot, ankle and lower limb conditions, including:

  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Heel pain
  • Arch pain
  • Achilles tendinopathy
  • Shin splints
  • Flat feet
  • High-arched feet
  • Forefoot pain
  • Metatarsalgia
  • Bunions
  • Knee pain
  • Running injuries
  • Sports-related overuse injuries
  • General foot fatigue

Orthotics work by improving foot mechanics, redistributing pressure and reducing excessive strain on injured structures.

Orthotics we offer:

Heat-Moulded Orthotics (Same day solution)

 

Not everyone requires a fully custom orthotic.

For many patients, a heat-moulded orthotic provides excellent support while allowing treatment to begin immediately.

These devices are individually moulded to your feet during your appointment and can often be fitted on the same day.

Benefits of heat-moulded orthotics include:

  • Same-day fitting in many cases
  • Comfortable and supportive
  • Suitable for a range of footwear
  • Cost-effective compared to fully custom devices
  • Immediate support while recovering from injury

Heat-moulded orthotics are commonly prescribed for heel pain, plantar fasciitis, arch pain, foot fatigue and mild to moderate biomechanical concerns.

Custom Orthotics (Fully Custom)

 

For more complex conditions, a fully customised orthotic may be recommended.

Custom orthotics are prescribed following a detailed biomechanical assessment and are designed specifically for your foot structure, movement patterns and activity requirements.

These devices may be suitable for:

  • Chronic or recurring injuries
  • Significant biomechanical abnormalities
  • Sporting and running injuries
  • Complex foot deformities
  • Long-standing pain that has not responded to previous treatment

Our goal is to prescribe the right device for the right patient, not simply recommend orthotics to everyone who walks through the door.

Our Assessment Process

Every orthotic prescription begins with a comprehensive assessment.

Your appointment may include:

Clinical Assessment

We begin by discussing your symptoms, medical history, activity levels, footwear and treatment goals.

Biomechanical Examination

We assess foot posture, joint mobility, muscle strength and walking mechanics to identify factors contributing to your pain or dysfunction.

Real-Time Diagnostic Ultrasound

Where appropriate, diagnostic ultrasound may be used to assess soft tissue structures such as tendons, ligaments and fascia.

This allows us to better understand the extent of injury and determine whether orthotics are likely to be beneficial.

Treatment Planning

Based on the findings of your assessment, we will discuss the most appropriate treatment options and whether a heat-moulded orthotic, custom orthotic or alternative treatment approach is recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get orthotics at my first appointment?

Yes. Heat-moulded orthotics can often be fitted during your initial consultation, allowing many patients to leave with immediate support.

Do I need custom orthotics?

Not necessarily. Many patients achieve excellent outcomes with heat-moulded devices. If a custom orthotic is likely to provide additional benefit, we will discuss this with you during your assessment.

Will orthotics cure my condition?

Orthotics are designed to reduce strain on injured structures and improve foot function. In many cases they form part of a broader treatment plan that may also include rehabilitation and other therapies.

Can orthotics fit into different shoes?

In most cases, yes. We will discuss your footwear requirements during your assessment and recommend the most appropriate orthotic option for your needs.

drkim_round_v3

Principal Podiatrist

& Clinical Lead