Types of Orthotics

One of our main goals at Wisconsin Foot Center is to get you back to your favorite activities safely in the shortest possible amount of time. See, patients come to us because they are suffering from some form of foot pain. No matter if the pain comes from a soft tissue injury, toe deformity, or otherwise, it will keep you away from doing the things you enjoy doing.

Furthermore, pain is your body’s way of telling you something is wrong. This is where the assistance of trained medical professionals comes into play. We can diagnose problems and then create treatment plans to address them. In certain cases, the treatment might include orthotic therapy. When it does, there are different types of orthotics we may prescribe.

So what are orthotics and why do we prescribe them? Well, these devices are inserts of various forms that are placed in your normal shoes. With regards to why we use them in treatment – because they work.

When used as intended by patients, these medical devices can be rather effective. A major factor contributing to that effectiveness is versality. We can prescribe custom orthotics that work to correct a range of different medical issues. From bunions to flatfoot to cavus foot (and so much more!), there are types of orthotic devices that could work for you.

Generally speaking, orthotics fall into two categories—accommodative and functional.

Accommodative orthoses are constructed from softer materials. These inserts are prescribed to relieve pressure from, or provide additional support to, specific areas of the foot. We may use these kinds of orthoses to help prevent a diabetic patient from developing dangerous ulcers.

Functional orthotic devices, on the other hand (or foot!) are made from firmer, more rigid materials. This rigidity is necessary because these orthotics are intended to control or restrict specific biomechanics in a foot or ankle. An example of this is using a functional orthotic device to reduce overpronation.

One great thing about either type of orthotic is that they not only address current symptoms, but they also can halt a condition’s progression—such as in the case of bunions and hammertoe—and even keep problems from developing in the first place. This can be important when treating younger patients. A pair of orthotics now can mean less pain later!

No matter if you’d like to learn more about the benefits of orthotic therapy or you are suffering from foot or ankle pain and need professional care, Wisconsin Foot Center is here to help you. We provide effective treatment for a wide range of lower limb conditions. Contact us today so we can start working together to relieve your pain and allow you to go back to your favorite activities! Either call us at (414) 425-8400 or connect with us online right now.