Orthotics Specialist

What are orthotics?

Orthotics are medical devices that fit into your shoes. Depending on your particular foot problem, they can cover the sole of your shoes, just the heel, or just the ball of your foot. 

The two main forms of orthotics are:

Functional orthotics

Functional orthotics treat biomechanical foot problems and insufficiencies. They support and properly position all the tissues in your foot, allowing you to stand and move efficiently. This minimizes inflammation, reduces pain, improves your gait, and prevents injury. 

Accommodative orthotics

Accommodative orthotics don’t treat biomechanical foot issues, but they do help with some types of foot pain. This form of orthotic is soft and gives extra cushioning where you need it. 

At Cedar Grove Foot & Ankle Specialists, you get custom-molded orthotics, made according to your foot dimensions and your needs.

When do I need orthotics?

Dr. Wachtler may prescribe orthotics for many reasons, including: 

• Plantar fasciitis
• Foot arch pain
• Foot ulcers
• Neuromas
• Bunions
• Hammertoe
• Corns
• Calluses
• Bursitis
• Arthritis
• Achilles tendinitis
• Excessive inward foot movement (overpronation)
• Too little inward foot movement (supination)

Custom orthotics can also be part of an athletic optimization plan. Professional and amateur athletes wear custom orthotics to help them achieve the best possible physical performance.

What’s the orthotics process like?

Dr. Wachtler diagnoses your condition and then recommends an orthotic type that can help. He creates a mold of your foot using either a traditional cast or laser scan. A medical equipment laboratory then creates your custom-molded orthotics using your foot impressions. 

When you return to Cedar Grove Foot & Ankle Specialists to get your new orthotics, Dr. Wachtler can make any minor adjustments needed at that time. 

Are orthotics comfortable?

Orthotics are made of high-quality materials, from soft and springy foams to rigid graphite and other medical-grade materials. Generally, they’re quite comfortable because they fit your foot so precisely. 

With the harder orthotics materials, you can expect a breaking-in period, much like breaking in a new pair of shoes. Orthotics won’t increase your pain, cause blisters, or trigger other foot issues. Once you grow used to them, they feel just like part of your shoes. 

Cedar Grove Foot & Ankle Specialists offers state-of-the-art, custom-molded orthotics for all types of foot needs. Call the office or use the online scheduler to learn more.