Orthotics

Are orthotics the same as insoles?

Orthotics and insoles are similar but not the same.

Insoles

Insoles are pieces of foam or plastic that you insert into closed-toe shoes. They can be found at most grocery and sports goods stores and don’t require a doctor’s prescription.

Orthotics

Orthotics look similar to insoles, but they’re designed specifically for your feet and require a doctor’s prescription. To ensure a perfect fit, Dr. Klimek takes three-dimensional digital scans of your feet. He then sends your scans to a podiatry lab that uses them to manufacture your personalized orthotics.

Which foot problems benefit from orthotics?

At Kinetic Edge Foot & Ankle, Dr. Klimek prescribes orthotics to treat various foot problems, including:

• Arthritis
• Bunions
• Bursitis
• Diabetes-related foot problems
• Flat feet
• Hammer toes
• Heel spurs
• High arches
• Plantar fasciitis

Sometimes, Dr. Klimek recommends orthotics to people recovering from sports injuries. Because orthotics hold your foot in the correct position, they reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Are there different types of orthotics?

At Kinetic Edge Foot & Ankle, Dr. Klimek provides two types of orthotics:

Hard or rigid orthotics

These orthotics are made of stiff, inflexible materials like plastic and/or carbon fiber. They slip inside closed-toe shoes. Rigid orthotics hold your feet in the proper position and reduce pressure, relieving pain and promoting mobility.

Soft or accommodative orthotics

Soft orthotics are bulky and made of padded, cushioning materials. These orthotics take the pressure off sensitive areas like blisters, plantar warts, and diabetic ulcers. Because of their bulk, many people wear accommodative orthotics with prescription shoes.

What does getting orthotics involve?

At Kinetic Edge Foot & Ankle, getting orthotics takes two visits several weeks apart.

If Dr. Klimek determines that you can benefit from custom-fitted orthotics, he takes three-dimensional digital scans of your feet and ankles. Dr. Klimek uploads your scans to a computer design program and sends the files to a nearby podiatry lab.

The lab techs use your scans to design and manufacture a pair of rigid or accommodative orthotics. When your orthotics are finished, two or three weeks later, you return to Kinetic Edge Foot & Ankle.

Dr. Klimek has you try the orthotics on and asks you to walk around the exam room. He observes your gait (how you walk) and makes adjustments where needed to ensure your orthotics fit perfectly.

Call the nearest Kinetic Edge Foot & Ankle office today to schedule an orthotics appointment, or book your visit online.