Prescription Orthotics and How They Are Used

By Allan Hatchell


An individual's weight is carried entirely on his or her feet. For this reason, foot pain is often a sign of an underlying health condition. Additionally, those who suffer from pain in their feet frequently experience pain in other areas, such as their back, knees or hips. This is often due to the patients inadvertently changing their gait to try to alleviate their foot pain. However, this action often agitates other parts of the body. In such cases, prescription orthotics are often recommended by a foot specialist.

Such devices come in various types and some are available without a prescription. However in many cases the person requires a special prescription from a doctor or foot specialist. When such devices are necessary, a mold of the patient's foot is taken before the prescription is written. This ensures that the most appropriate orthopedic appliances are obtained.

Numerous products of this kind are produced in an orthotic laboratory, and are typically designed with the goal of correcting imbalances in the feet. They also frequently include arch supports or heel cushions. The majority of such products are manufactured from rubber, leather or composite material that fits into the individual's shoes.

The objective of such devices is to help patients maintain a normal gait, and subsequently walk better. If the patient has arches that have fallen, inserts can be created to assist him or her to avoid pronation. Such products typically include cups designed to absorb shock in the person's heel area.

When such products are recommended by a podiatrist, the aforementioned mold of the client's soles are taken and forwarded to an orthotic laboratory where customized shoes or inserts are designed. The cost of such devices varies considerably from one laboratory to the next, but the majority of health insurance plans include the cost of prescription orthotics if a foot specialist or podiatrist has made such a recommendation.

Although such devices can be purchased in stores, this option is not appropriate for everyone. This is because over-the-counter orthotics are not custom made to a doctor's specifications. Therefore, those who have serious problems with their feet should seek the advice of a podiatrist rather than attempt to purchase their own orthotic appliances.

Additionally, patients should be aware that prescription orthotics need a breaking in period. Most podiatrists recommend wearing the new device only one hour a day at first, followed by two hours the next day, and three on the third. This pattern should be followed until the patient has reached a full 8-hour day wearing the device. Those experiencing foot pain for more than a few days should be evaluated by a qualified podiatrist.




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