What are Orthotics?

Orthotics is a “catch-all” term that refers to just about any device that can be worn inside a shoe. They can be bought at retail stores, online or made to measure. The custom molded varieties are fit by specialists who can design a device that will provide the precise characteristics to provide relief from pain, make walking easier, treat fallen arches and reduce the risk of injury to patients.

Types of Orthotic for orthopaedic shoes

Orthotics fall into two different categories: functional and accommodative types.

Functional orthotics

Functional orthotics are made to support an abnormal foot structure or form of movement. Usually made of plastic, they are useful for treating conditions like flat feet. They also help with absorbing shock when you are either walking or running.

Accommodative orthotics

Accommodative orthotics are devices like braces and splints. They are used for relief of minor foot pain and to correct minor problems with the foot.

Ankle-foot Orthotics

Ankle-foot orthotics, or AFOs are made to control either your ankle’s position or motion. It is used to compensate for weakness or a deformity in the joint. AFOs are a common type of orthotic device, and they are sometimes called braces.

AFOs or braces may be recommended for people who have suffered a stroke or who need support for a weakened or wasted limbs. Some people with a foot drop or arthritis can also find them helpful. Braces can be either have a flexible or rigid design, depending on the desired result.

Cushioned Heel

A cushioned or SACH (Solid Ankle Cushioned Heel) heel is a wedge of compressible rubber that is placed into the heel of a shoe to reduce impact when the wearer takes a step. It also reduces knee movement in the wearer.

Heel Wedges

Heel wedges are used to encourage the front foot to either turn inward or outward when taking a step. They also prevent the hind foot from sliding down the incline created by the wedge.

Heel Flares

A heel flare is inserted into a shoe to resist turning inward or outward and to provide stability to the foot.

Inner Sole Excavation

This is a soft pad that is filled with squeezable materials that can be placed under the ball of the foot. Once it is placed in a shoe, it reduces pressure on the wearer’s foot.

How to Look for Shoes for Orthotics

It can be a bit challenging to find footwear that is compatible with orthotic inserts. A standard pair of shoes may not be the right choice when you wear a corrective device. At Wide Fit Shoes, we carry a number of styles for men and women which are compatible with orthotics.

1. A Removable Insole

   This feature will allow the orthotic to sit deeper inside the shoe and will give it a solid base. It will also mean that your heel will fit deeper into the heel counter much better. You will be less likely to encounter fit problems by removing the insole, as well as any arch supports, felt or rubber additions before inserting any orthotics into the shoe.

   If the shoe is flat, you can place your orthotic directly over top of the insert if it does not make the shoe fit too tight.

2. Shoes that are Adjustable

   Lace-up styles or ones with adjustable straps or buckles are good choices if you need to make allowances for an orthotic device. You should always bring your orthotic with you when buying shoes so that you can try it on with the shoes that you are considering.

   Lace-up styles or ones with adjustable straps or buckles are good choices if you need to make allowances for an orthotic device. You should always bring your orthotic with you when buying shoes so that you can try it on with the shoes that you are considering.

   If you find that your orthotic is making your heel slip in your shoes, it does not mean that you need to consider buying a smaller size. Instead, look at a lace-up pair of footwear and ask our shoe experts about different lacing techniques to help reduce heel slippage and increase your comfort.

Be Sure to Keep your Shoes in Good Condition

Take good care of your shoes if you need to wear orthotics. Allowing them to become worn down without replacing them will only make it more challenging for the orthotic to perform effectively, since it may not fit correctly in your shoe.

Whether you are being fitted for your first orthotic or have been using them for some time, contact Wide Fit Shoes for the right fit for shoes for orthotics for you. Like plantar fasciitis, orthotics can be painful if not looked after.

Sources

• www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Lymphoedema/Pages/Introduction.aspx
• www.circulationfoundation.org.uk/help-advice/other-vascular-information/lymphoedema/
• physio.ie/services/orthotics/five-key-facts-about-orthotics/
• www.apma.org/Learn/FootHealth.cfm?ItemNumber=988
• orthoticsfeet.com
• www.usaorthotics.com/blog/5-more-facts-about-your-feet-and-custom-orthotics