Custom orthotics are medical devices that go into your shoes to remove stress from the feet and ankles. These devices are made using a cast, impression, or scan of your foot to create a perfect, customized fit. If you’re considering adding orthotics to your footwear, here are some advantages to consider.

What Are the Advantages of Custom Orthotics?

1. Added Support 

There are many types of supportive shoes available, but nothing can compare to the level of support you’ll receive from orthotics designed specifically for your foot shape. These devices are designed to support the entire surface of your foot. They can even be fit into shoes that typically offer little cushion or stability, such as dress shoes and sandals. 

2. Injury Prevention

By helping to evenly distribute pressure across your foot and providing extra cushioning, custom orthotics can prevent injuries. For instance, you may be less likely to experience issues like ankle sprains. Since your feet provide the foundation for your whole leg, you could also prevent overextensions and other types of knee and hip problems. 

3. Enhanced Performance

From casual gym-goers to advanced athletes, everyone who works out can benefit from a set of custom-made orthotics. They can be built with your specific sports’ needs in mind. For instance, you can experience even weight distribution and improved balance, which can further help improve your athletic performance in sports that involve running or lateral movements. 

4. Joint Protection

With an added layer of cushioning, orthotics act as shock absorbers. From dynamic movements such as plyometrics to simply walking, limiting the amount of impact your foot sees can help reduce wear and tear on your joints. Orthotics are a worthwhile investment whether you have existing joint problems or you’re trying to prevent them.

5. Pain Relief

One of the most common reasons people seek out customized orthotics is to reduce the pain they feel from being on their feet. From flat feet to high arches, orthotics are designed to accommodate all ranges of foot problems that can cause discomfort, including back, foot, and leg pain. Even if you don’t have any foot irregularities, having custom-designed support in your footwear can provide added comfort. 

If you need custom orthotics, turn to Louise E. Tortora, DPM in Fairfield, CT. This foot and ankle specialist has a welcoming office where patients of all ages can receive treatment for a wide range of foot conditions, including flat feet and sports injuries. Find out more about becoming a patient online, or schedule an appointment by calling (203) 254-0093.