What are foot & ankle orthoses?
What are they & what do they do?
Foot & ankle orthoses are a prescribed device that functions as an insole. They can be used in the treatment of many foot, ankle and knee conditions, as well as a tool for hip and back conditions.
They act to change the way your foot interacts with the ground to change the forces acting on the feet and body. They can be made with a variety of different materials to achieve different goals; for example, offloading areas of high pressure, impacting foot function with the goal of improving gait mechanics, or providing a difference neuromuscular feedback stimulus.
When may they be useful?
They may be useful as a tool in the treatment of a large range foot conditions. A few common conditions may include:
Plantar fasciopathy eg. Plantar fasciitis
Hallux abducto valgus (bunions)
Arthritis
Tendinopathy
Neuroma
Bursitis
Neuropathy
Chronic, reoccurring corns
What are the three types of orthotics available?
There are three main foot orthoses options. Each are most useful for different types of patients and conditions.
Prefabricated orthoses:
Are fitted by shoe size and can only be purchased from podiatry, allied health and medical clinics
Are designed with a mild correction and more generic shape so as to comfortably fit in the shoes of a larger variety of people
Tend to be softer and more cushioning for people who are on their feet for a lot of the day, rather than being used to treat conditions of the feet.
Can be edited by your podiatrist to target specific concerns
Usually last 12-24months
Are generally the most cost effective option due to the comparative lack of customisation and production requirements.
Semi-Custom Devices:
Are only prescribed and manufactured by a podiatrist.
Are fit based off templates that are designed to treat on common foot types and common foot conditions.
than other orthoses options
Provide more of an opportunity for customisation and targeted treatment of a variety of conditions than a pre-fabricated device, particularly for high-arch foot types.
Can be edited by your podiatrist
Usually last 2+ years
Are a mid-range option in regards to cost.
Custom Devices:
Can only be prescribed and manufactured by a qualified podiatrist
Are designed and built off a 3D scan or plaster cast mould of your foot.
Are built to specifically target your injury, condition and/or concern most effectively.
Can be created out of a variety of materials and shapes, by your podiatrist, to ensure a comfortable fit in a large variety of shoes including: runners, fashion sneakers, flats, court shoes, pointed dress shoes and high heels.
Are hand-made and more durable than other foot orthoses options
Can be edited by your podiatrist
Usually last 3-5+ years
Can often be claimed on private health funds (depending on your level of cover)