Custom Orthotics
Sometimes the body needs extra support when movable parts are weak, strained, or healing. Custom orthotics are external devices personalized to the patient to support, correct, align, and improve function. At Munger Physical Therapy, we combine custom orthotics for qualifying patients with appropriate physical therapy to rehabilitate feet, ankles, knees, back, and upper extremities.
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Types of Custom Orthotics
All custom orthotics are designed to fit a patient perfectly for comfort and maximum benefits. Some of the most common orthotics include:
- Foot orthotics (FOs). Worn inside shoes, foot orthotics are not visible and are designed to cushion feet, support arches, and improve alignment for people with foot disorders or pain.
- Ankle-foot orthotics (AFOs). Often boot-like in design, AFOs support both ankle and foot to improve stability, stretch muscles and tendons, reduce pain, and control movement.
- Knee orthotics. The knee joint can be fitted with an orthotic that delivers support and stability through arthritis, post-surgical rehab, or injury.
- Back orthotics. A spinal orthotic is intended to stabilize the spine and support patients who have back pain, spinal fractures, or scoliosis.
- Wrist, hand, arm orthotics. Categorized as upper extremity orthotics, these devices address problems in the arm, hand, or wrist, like fractures or arthritis.
Problems Helped by Custom Orthotics
Adults and children managing developmental, neurological, or musculoskeletal conditions discover that orthotics can play a critical role in improving stability and mobility. The goal is to move naturally, better, and without pain or limitation. The right custom orthotic can help you achieve these goals. Some of the most common problems treated through custom orthotics include:
- Plantar fasciitis. Orthotics redistribute pressure and provide support to reduce strain on the plantar fascia, a heel disorder.
- Achilles tendinitis. In this condition, orthotics cushion and provide relief from pain and inflammation in the tissue that connects calf to heel.
- Toe walking. More likely to occur in young children, the tight tendons and muscles in calves can be stretched with an AFO or similar ankle orthotic.
- Flat feet. Much-needed arch support can come from custom insoles to restore natural alignment to flat feet or combat overpronation.
- Gait problems. Injuries and conditions like calluses and arthritis impact gait, but orthotics can keep a body in alignment and reduce stress.
- Carpal tunnel syndrome. Wrist braces and splits immobilize the wrist to stop pressure on the carpal tunnel and minimize tingling and numbness.
Designing Custom Orthotics for Your Needs
Over-the-counter orthotics are convenient, but often do not lend proper support and, if chosen incorrectly, can contribute negatively to existing physical problems. The high quality of custom orthotics is clear when compared to general options and function appropriately to address the difficulties you’re experiencing.
The design of custom orthotics involves measuring, plaster moldings, and casting to get the right size, shape, length, thickness, or other characteristics. It takes time for personalized materials to be made, and they are adjusted for each person’s size, body weight, and activity level. As you heal or time passes and the orthotics become worn, new custom orthotics will need to be made for the biggest benefits.
Allow your physical therapist to educate you on the options available, and recommend the most appropriate orthotics to address, treat, and prevent problems that affect the mechanics of your body.
Book An AppointmentMunger Physical Therapy Combined with Custom Orthotics
There are many benefits to getting custom orthotics fitted by your physical therapist. We are familiar with the limitations of your body, what you are compensating for or enduring, and recommend the most appropriate materials to help you adjust and feel better.
Combining orthotics with physical therapy leads to faster and more effective treatment so you can get moving again without past limitations. Improve your strength and flexibility with the in-person and daily support you need. Contact Munger PT to discuss your circumstances.
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