Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics are specialist insoles that provide structural support and improve foot function. They can be made to fit different types of shoes or for more specific shoe types, such as ski boots.
What issues can custom orthotics aid with?
The custom orthotics that are prescribed can assist with a range of issues including:
- Heel pain (plantar fasciitis)
- Achilles tendonitis
- Injuries
- Knee pain
- Back pain
- Tight calves
- Flat foot
- Bunions
- Corns
The orthotics can re-balance the feet to align the body, this in turn can aid with knee pain and back pain. They devices can also take pressure from certain areas of your feet that cause issues such as bunions and corns.
Physiotherapy may also be suggested in combination with custom orthotics.
How are the measurements of custom orthotics taken?
There are a few techniques nowadays. Traditionally, a foot impression or foot scan is taken to obtain a mould of the foot shape, and this is sent to an orthotic manufacturer.
The orthotics manufacturer receives the mould or scan with a prescription that has been made out by a podiatrist. They will then typically make it as per the prescription by vacuum forming, or now with recent technology they can even 3D print them!
At Podogo foot clinic, we typically take a 3D foot scan.
The different styles of Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics can be transferred between different shoes, depending on the style of orthotic you are prescribed and the footwear. You can however have multiple pairs of orthotics designed for more specific footwear, this includes running shoes, football boots, sneakers, and dress shoes. The devices can be made half length and low profile, or full length with bulky support depending on the requirement and shoe they are to be worn inside.
Our podiatrists specialise in prescribing custom orthotics to meet each individuals needs. This will be determined following a biomechanical assessment and gait analysis.
What determines which type of orthotic is prescribed?
The rigidity of the shell needs to suit the foot and pathology. Sometimes a strong rigid shell is needed but other times this could be uncomfortable and requires a soft flexible shell.
There is also the option to make one section rigid and another soft. Pads can be added to further increase support in the different areas of the foot, or dents to offload areas. This can make a big difference to comfort and addressing problems.
The devices are made to help with foot function and to work with your footwear. A carbon shell is thin, light and durable but a polypropylene shell can absorb more impact during sport.
A full length pair will feel most comfortable in a running shoe but may not always fit in a sneaker, or dress shoe.
How long do custom orthotics last
The shells of custom orthotics usually last at least 3 years depending on use, and the top covers usually 1 to 2 years. When the top cover wears down, this can be replaced and you can reuse the same shell.
Care advice for custom orthotics
Keeping your custom orthotics dry by taking them out of your shoes, and ensuring the underneath is dry, will help. Don’t wash them in hot water as the glue may soften and encourage the materials to come unstuck.
General Orthotics
For everyday walking shoes and activity, providing adequate structural support and comfort and fit in most shoe devices. Manufactured from light weight materials such as carbon fibre.
Dress Orthotics
Specifically designed for fashion shoes such as loafers, ballet pumps and low healed dress/court shoes. Dress orthotics are slim and low profile yet provide structural support.
Sports Orthotics
These generally are manufactured from materials that allow more shock absorption and resist higher levels of forces. A variety of sports orthotics are modified for football, tennis, basketball/netball, running and even golf.
Diabetic Orthotics
Diabetic orthotics are proven to prevent ulcers by reducing shearing stresses. Specialist memory foam material have good evidence in prevention of pre ulcerative stages and ultimately limb salvage.
Ankle Foot Orthoses
Devices such as Richie braces are used for severe ankle and foot deformities and tendon ruptures. They also help in foot drop caused by a variety of neurological disorders.
Children’s Orthoses
Whilst it may be normal for some children to have flat feet but severe paediatric flat foot is best when treated early. Paediatric orthotics can also help with in-toeing, habitual tip toeing as well as collapsed arches.
Ski Orthotics
Ski Orthotics are specialised supportive insoles, designed to protect foot health in cold and sporting conditions, with an easy tag to fit inside deep ski boots.
General Orthotics
For everyday walking shoes and activity, providing adequate structural support and comfort and fit in most shoe devices. Manufactured from light weight materials such as carbon fibre.
Dress Orthotics
Specifically designed for fashion shoes such as loafers, ballet pumps and low healed dress/court shoes. Dress orthotics are slim and low profile yet provide structural support.
Sports Orthotics
Whilst general sports orthotics exist, these generally are manufactured from materials that allow shock absorption. A variety of sports orthotics are modified for football, tennis, basketball/netball, running and even golf.
Diabetic Orthotics
Diabetic orthotics are proven to prevent ulcers by reducing shearing stresses. Specialist memory foam material have good evidence in prevention of pre ulcerative stages and ultimately limb salvage.
Ankle Foot Orthoses
Devices such as Richie braces are used for severe ankle and foot deformities and tendon ruptures. They also help in foot drop caused by a variety of neurological disorders.
Children’s Orthoses
Whilst it may be normal for some children to have flat feet but severe paediatric flat foot is best when treated early. Paediatric orthotics can also help with in-toeing, habitual tip toeing as well as collapsed arches.
Ski Orthotics
Ski Orthotics are specialised supportive insoles, designed to protect foot health in cold and sporting conditions, with an easy tag to fit inside deep ski boots.
Frequently asked questions
Three types of orthotics are rigid, semi rigid and soft. The rigid device helps control the function of the foot. Soft orthotics help absorb shock and improve comfort. The semi rigid orthotics are a mix between the two.
Orthotics can indeed be good for your feet. They can support the foot to improve balance and reduce pressure areas that are inflamed. They can also improve the biomechanics of your feet.
Some flat feet are genetic and can’t be permanently changed so long term use may be needed. If you have flat feet related problems, orthotics can help you recover from your symptoms and sometimes are only needed for 6 months.
We usually advise you to gradually increase the use because it may take your feet time to get used to them. After 1-2 weeks you should be able to wear them all day long.
Custom orthotics can improve your biomechanics and reduce fatigue. This should help you avoid developing aches and pains.
Our specialities include
Testimonial
Excellent decision to come here. All my queries were answered in detail and I'm very happy with the results. Location is also very convenient. Highly recommended.
Having suffered from severe heel pain every morning for some time, with no signs of any improvement or help from my GP, it was The London Foot Clinic who gave me hope. With rounds of Shockwave Therapy and custom fitted orthotics, my feet have never felt better. With first class service and care the team at The London Foot Clinic are the only ones I would trust with my feet..
Thank you very much to care about pleople!!!
Got personal orthotics made for my feet! What a great experience! The whole team was so professional and friendly. They listened to all my questions and concerns about my foot health and issues. My new orthotics are great and have really helped with the pain I was experiencing and has also improved my overall posture ! Thanks Podogo
“I’ve suffered with hip pain and numbness for most of the last decade and had tried everything from acupuncture to sports massage. Then I visited Adnan Nazir at the London Foot Clinic and he discovered one of my legs was shorter than the other. He fitted me with an orthotic insole (which I could wear all the time – even while running half marathons!) and the problem disappeared within 6 weeks! I am now completely pain free and extremely glad I consulted Mr Nazir. It was, quite literally, a life changing decision.”
I recently had my bilateral bunion surgery with Mr Kaser Nazir and couldn’t be more pleased with the results. I hardly experienced any pain following the procedure, and have had a smooth recovery following Mr Nazir’s advice. The rest of staff who have looked after me at the clinic during my follow-up appointments have been brilliant too. I will definitely recommend Mr Nazir’s for any foot condition.
I contacted The London Foot Clinic regarding an old mid foot injury. My foot problem was complicated and possibly involves future surgery due to instability. I received very professional and thorough care from Adnan Nazir. I was offered an opportunity for second opinions on previous MRI and x-ray results which led to a much clearer diagnosis of my foot problem. I received some excellent quality custom made orthotics that have impressed both my osteopath and my foot surgeon, so I know I went to the right place! I would certainly recommend Central Foot Clinic for a podiatric assessment and treatment. I did a lot a research before I chose them and I am lucky to have found this practice.
Having suffered from severe heel pain every morning for some time, with no signs of any improvement or help from my GP, it was The London Foot Clinic who gave me hope. With rounds of Shockwave Therapy and custom fitted orthotics, my feet have never felt better. With first class service and care the team at The London Foot Clinic are the only ones I would trust with my feet….
From the first phone call with Anjelica who is Mr Nazir’s PA she put me completely at ease about my son’s foot. She is friendly and efficient and as a first point of contact I knew I had made the right decision in choosing Mr Nazir. My son was very nervous at the appointment with Mr Nazir but he was extremely friendly and immediately put us both at ease because I knew my son was in safe hands. Mr Nazir explained everything down to the smallest detail and he just knew how to relate to a 14 year old. It was really such a positive experience and I would not hesitate in recommending Mr Nazir.
Mr Nazir – excellent service, really reassuring and great manner.
Angelica obviously works extremely well with Mr Nazir. Nice team
Mr. Stephen Thomas was excellent. Very kind. Kept my holiday on track, for sure!
Steven Thomas was great, really nice guy and made the procedure as easy as possible.