Sue Ferguson
Chiropodist and Podiatrist in Tenterden, Kent
LOCATION: Home | Biomechanics and Orthotics | About Orthotics Registered with the Health and Care Professions Council
Registration No. CH16194
 

About Orthotics

 

What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are foot insoles (a type of arch support) which are worn inside everyday shoes and are able to be transferred from shoe to shoe. Orthotics enable the feet to be held in a more stable position during walking and standing which helps control poor foot function by allowing only certain movements to take place at specific times.

Orthotics can either be custom made to an exact prescription or purchased over the counter in standard sizes and postings.

Balancing your feet will enable you to walk more efficiently and your feet, ankles, knees, hips and back will be under less strain.

Can Orthotics help?
Poor foot function often causes pain and deformity in the foot and ankle but it can also cause pain in the knees, hips and back. Poor foot function can also be associated with neck stiffness, muscle fatigue and cramp.

Sporting activities, such as running or golf, place an even greater strain on poorly functioning feet. Wearing orthotics can often help improve foot function, decrease pain and slow deterioration.

How are Orthotics made?
Custom made orthotics normally have a rigid plastic shell with a cushioning top cover. The shell usually lasts for years but the top cover might need periodic replacement.

Custom made orthotics are normally very comfortable and do not feel hard in shoes.

Ready-made insoles versus custom orthotics

Ready-made over the counter orthotics and insoles may be able to help with minor foot discomfort but might not accurately control poor foot function to the level a custom orthotic would. However they are an extremely useful temporary fix and are good for those people who want to spend the absolute minimum. See here for information on ready made orthotics

Who needs orthotics?

  • Do you have foot, ankle, knee, hip or back pain?
  • Do you have corns or calluses?
  • Do you have bunions?

Orthotics may be able to help you

You already have orthotics?
  • Are they comfortable?
  • Do they relieve your symptoms?
  • Do they fit in your shoes?
  • If not then you might need to have your feet scanned and new custom orthotics made
Examples of orthotics,
topcovers and additions

3/4 length orthotic
Orthotic with rigid plastic shell and 3/4 length top cover
Full length orthotic
Full length topcover for extra cushioning
Orthotic with arch padding
Orthotic incorporating an arch fill
Orthotic with heel lift
Orthotic incorporating a heel raise
Orthotic with heel cushion pad
Orthotic incorporating a heel spur pad
Orthotic with rearfoot post
Orthotic incorporating an extrinsic rearfoot post
   
Contact Sue Ferguson
Podiatrist
Book an appointment now to help your foot pain
(please note I am not accepting new patients)
Tel: 01580 765546
 
 
Custom Orthotics
Orthotics for running
Orthotics for running: custom made orthotics to help control excessive pronation

Sue Ferguson
BSc (Hons), MRCPod
Chiropodist and Podiatrist

2 St Benets Court
Tenterden
Kent TN30 6QS
Tel: 01580 765546

Email: sjf.ferguson@gmail.com