Custom Orthotics What Is A Custom Orthotic? An orthotic is a device that goes in your shoe to control abnormal foot and leg motion without limiting normal motion. Unlike a one size fits all foot-bed or an insole that you would find “off the shelf”, a custom orthotic is molded specifically to your foot using careful measurements and a well crafted cast to capture your foots unique shape. A good custom orthotic actually changes the position of your foot in a very specific way to assure that your foot will function in its neutral position. It must carefully conform to the unique contours of your foot and be sufficiently supportive to maintain those contours under the weight of your feet. Do I Need A Custom Orthotic? 70% of the people we see get enough foot support with the right shoe and, if needed, an off the shelf insole. We are happy to advise you on how to find the right shoe if you are one of these people. The other 30% have a foot type that could use the extra support of a custom orthotic. To learn what type of foot you have it is best to see us for an evaluation. We will explain to you why you will benefit from a custom orthotic and give you strength and flexibility exercises to make sure the orthotic gives you the greatest possible benefit. If you don’t need a custom orthotic, we have other ways of addressing your problems through exercise, education, and proper shoes. We will also gladly modify or refurbish orthotics made elsewhere. How Do We Make the Orthotics? The most reliable and accurate way to make an orthotic is by making a plaster cast of your foot while you lying face down. At ALTA, we capture the best picture of your foot because we maintain it in the position we want while the plaster dries (5 minutes per foot). Orthotics made with a foam box impression arevery common these days but cannot guarantee that your foot is in neutral or that the contour of your foot will be captured accurately. If your foot is not in neutral when you are standing on it (too pronated or supinated), then it will not be neutral when you push it down into a foam box. What Types Of Orthotics Are Available? We make a wide spectrum of orthotics from very rigid plastics and composites for severe pronators, to very soft orthotics for people with very high arches or people that don’t tolerate hard plastics. We use various materials to cover the orthotic from thin naugahyde and foams to thick gels. We can make them very light-weight for runners or cyclists, and can make them various lengths depending on your needs and preferences. What If They Don’t Feel Good Right Away? All orthotics have a normal “break in” period where your foot and leg are getting used to working in a new position. This can last from a few days to 6 weeks. If, after a normal break in period, you are struggling to get comfortable in your orthotics we will modify them free of charge until they feel great. If you have pain or fatigue in your back, legs, or feet and you have ever wondered if you were a candidate for orthotics , give us a call to set up an appointment. Don’t wait. Call today!
		Alta Physical & Complementary Therapies 2955 Baseline Road Boulder, CO 80303 Phone: 303.444.8707 Fax: 303.444.8109 © This material is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without permission