The Benefits of Custom Orthotics for Foot Pain

A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step, but you won’t get very far if your feet are in pain. The reasons could be temporary, like a sprain, or chronic, like arthritis. They could even be related to problems with your body’s biomechanics: the way your feet are structured, impacting your function and motion.

Either way, foot pain is no joke, and can seriously impact your quality of life, from your back all the way down to your toes. If a relaxing, therapeutic soak at the end of your day isn’t enough for lasting relief, you might need a more effective solution: custom orthotic insoles, the cure for aches and pains in your foot.

Every foot has its own unique biomechanical design, so it follows that the best insoles must be tailor-made to suit that design. The experts at Lakes Foot & Ankle Associates have built their reputation on providing customers with orthotic insoles that protect the health of their feet. So, let’s dive into the practical benefits of custom orthotics!

How to Overcome Foot Pain with Advanced Custom Orthotics

Pain in your feet—from recurring heel pain to pressure in the toes—can be a symptom of many ailments and disorders. Ingrown toenails, diabetic foot ulcers, corns, calluses, arthritis, bursitis—these afflictions can make even the simple task of walking a painful exercise.

Orthotics custom-molded to the wearer’s foot have been proven to provide relief—not just to the feet, but the legs and back as well.

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are insoles that support your feet, balance your weight, and protect your joints. While mass-produced, generic-fitting insoles can be purchased over the counter, custom molded orthotic insoles are made to order—they are designed to fit your foot specifically and provide the exact type of support and control you need.

Are Custom Orthotics Worth It?

We’re all familiar with store-bought insoles. They’re easily accessible, and they seem to get the job done—or so you think.

Store-bought orthotics, by their nature, have to appeal to the broadest possible range of people. That means the principles behind their design are also very basic, relying on generalizations of foot shape, foot conditions, and shoe size. But even if you trim up one of these insoles to fit your shoe, that’s not the end of your problems.

Because these orthotics aren’t designed with your feet in mind, they can actually worsen the issue. Ill-fitting orthotics can trigger new pressure points, lead to balance issues, or even weaken parts of the foot that you rely on for pain-free motion. They also often appeal to a wider range of people due to the cushion or gels present in their construction. These materials may initially feel great, but they do nothing to actually support your foot.

Benefits of Custom Orthotics

• Custom orthotics can be adjusted to fit your foot; store-bought insoles cannot be altered.
• Custom orthotics are prescribed by doctors; store-bought insoles are recommended by salespeople.
• Custom orthotics are made from better quality materials than mass-produced insoles.
• Custom orthotics address the root cause of foot pain (poor biomechanics); store-bought insoles just fill your shoe.

How to Choose Advanced Custom Orthotics

The craft of making custom orthotics has come a long way, and its goal has always remained the same: fighting foot pain and providing true comfort for wearers. By using the latest technology, doctors can ensure patients experience relief as soon as they receive their custom orthotic insoles.

Orthotics Fitting and Fabrication System

Our orthotic system combines modern laser scanning, data collection, and 3D printing technology. Custom insoles made using this system are more lightweight and durable than any mass-produced, store-bought insoles.

The advantages of biometric screening include:

• Precise scans that lead to perfect fits
• Products designed for specific activities or shoes

How Much Are Custom Orthotics?

While it’s true that custom orthotics cost more than the store-bought version, they’re highly likely to save you in the long run. Let’s break down a few FAQs about the cost of orthotics to see how they can benefit you!

How long do orthotics last?

The answer, of course, depends on the user. However, custom insoles from Lakes Foot & Ankle Associates are made of highly durable materials, meaning that they are built to last. We recommend patients have a biomechanics screening at least every three years to track any changes that can occur as they age. Custom orthotics last at least a year, but 3-5 years is the average range. Compare that to the lifespan of just a few months for flimsy, store-bought insoles!

How to get orthotics covered by insurance

Private insurance may cover the costs of your new orthotics in some situations. We always recommend calling your insurance provider to check your coverage. After that, request an appointment with our podiatrists! We accept a variety of HMOs and PPOs, and our doctors are equipped to correctly diagnose the cause of your foot pain and prescribe orthotics when needed. If you are unsure about your coverage our staff can assist you in determining what your coverage may be.

Don’t Wait: Make the Most of HSA & FSA to Get Your Orthotic Inserts!

It’s almost the end of the year, and if you have a Heath Savings Account or Flexible Spending Account, now is the perfect time to get your advanced custom orthotics! Remember, your unused allowances won’t roll over until next year. So whether you need a second set of custom orthotics, braces, or ankle foot orthotics (AFOs), or you’re ready for a first-time fitting, call us today to reserve your spot before it’s too late!

Get End-of-Year Discounts on Custom Orthotics Near Commerce Township, MI!

>At Lakes Foot & Ankle Associates, healthy and happy feet are the top priority. Based out of Commerce Township, Michigan, and led by the capable Dr. Shanahan and Dr. Petronella, our practice is committed to helping patients leave foot pain behind. Take a step in the right direction and call us at (248) 360-3888 to give your feet the care they deserve. You don’t want to miss our attractive end-of-year discounts on custom orthotics and other services!

It’s Time To Leave Foot & Ankle Pain Behind!