Custom Orthotics in Wilmette, IL
Whether you enjoy your CrossFit classes throughout the week or you are a marathon runner, most active individuals will experience aches and pains in the foot and ankle at some point. Since most people don’t have perfect biomechanics, certain areas of the feet are taking on far more pressure and force than they should. While this can lead to problems for your feet over time, our Wilmette, IL podiatrist, Dr. Gary Rogers can provide you with custom-made shoe orthotics to improve the function of your feet and to prevent foot problems in the future.
What are Custom Orthotics?
Before you reach for those “one-size-fits-most” orthotics at your local drugstore, you might want to think again. These orthotics aren’t made from the highest quality materials and they aren’t designed with your specific needs in mind. Some of these premanufactured orthotics can cause further problems for your feet. This is why your best bet is to turn to our podiatrist for custom-made orthotics. These orthotics are not just made to fit your feet but also provide your feet with exactly what they need to function optimally, even if you’re dealing with preexisting foot problems.
Benifits of Custom Orthotics?
The orthotics that Dr. Rogers and his podiatric team create for you can offer your feet a variety of benefits including:
- A reduction in the foot, ankle, leg, back, and hip pain
- Ample support, particularly for the heels and arches of the feet
- Improved foot mechanics
- Alleviating pressure spots and distributing weight more evenly throughout the feet
- Improving foot alignment
- Preventing deformities and foot problems from getting worse
- Most Orthotics are covered by insurance
Who can benefit from Custom Orthotics?
Most people can benefit from custom orthotics, not just athletes (even though athletes should strongly consider how orthotics could improve the health and function of their feet and ankles). Certain health conditions, in particular, could benefit from orthotics. These conditions include:
- Bunions
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Diabetic feet
- Plantar fasciitis
- Flat feet
- High arches
- Obesity
If you spend more than five hours a day standing, custom orthotics can help take the pressure off certain parts of your feet and can prevent soreness, aching, pain, and discomfort after a long day. Children, teens, adults, and seniors can all benefit from orthotics for different reasons.
Different Types of Custom Orthotics
Rigid Orthotics
Rigid orthotic devices are designed to control function and are used primarily for walking or dress shoes. They are often composed of a firm material, such as plastic or carbon fiber. Rigid orthotics are made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot. Rigid orthotics control motion in the two major foot joints that lie directly below the ankle joint and may improve or eliminate strains, aches, and pains in the legs, thighs, and lower back.
Soft Orthotics
Soft orthotics are generally used to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. They are usually effective for diabetic, arthritic, and deformed feet. Soft orthotics are typically made up of soft, cushioned materials so that they can be worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel past the ball of the foot, including the toes. Like rigid orthotics, soft orthotics are also made from a mold after a podiatrist takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot.
Semi-Rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotics provide foot balance for walking or participating in sports. The typical semi-rigid orthotic is made up of layers of soft material, reinforced with more rigid materials. Semi-rigid orthotics are often prescribed for children to treat flatfoot and in-toeing or out-toeing disorders. These orthotics are also used to help athletes mitigate pain while they train and compete.
Interested in learning more about the many benefits of custom orthotics? Contact Wilmette Foot and Ankle Clinic to discover if custom orthotics is right for you and to find out if your insurance qualifies. You can reach our Wilmette, IL office today at (847) 256-4434 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Rogers!
