Orthotics

Custom orthotics support your feet, relieving pain caused by problems like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and heel spurs. At Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle in Pawtucket, Rhode Island, experienced podiatrist Joseph Domenico, DPM, and his team regularly prescribe custom orthotics to teens and adults. Call the office today and request an appointment, or book your visit online to see if orthotics are right for you.

How are custom orthotics different from the inserts you can buy at a store?

Custom orthotics and over-the-counter (OTC) inserts both go inside your shoes, but they aren’t the same.

Over-the-counter inserts

Over-the-counter heel pads and shoe inserts help pad the heels and balls of your feet, but they’re made of flimsy materials and are one-size-fits-all. These inserts tend to wear down within a month or two. 

Custom orthotics

Custom orthotics are prescription shoe inserts designed specifically for your feet. They can treat various foot problems and are made from durable, quality materials. Most orthotics are covered by insurance and last several years. 

Are there different types of orthotics?

The Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle Team offers several types of custom orthotics, including:

Rigid or ‘functional’ orthotics

These shoe inserts are made from hard, stiff materials like plastic and carbon fiber. They go inside closed-toed shoes and provide support for the arch of your foot.

Soft or ‘accommodative’ orthotics

These orthotics are soft and made from padded materials. They take pressure off of sensitive areas and often need to be worn with special shoes. For example, your podiatrist might recommend accommodative orthotics if you have a diabetic ulcer.

What types of foot problems benefit from custom orthotics?

The Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle team uses custom orthotics to treat various foot problems, including:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Bunions
• Arthritis
• Hammertoe
• Flatfoot
• High arches
• Achilles tendonitis
• Morton’s neuroma
• Bursitis
• Corns and calluses

Sometimes, custom orthotics are prescribed alongside diabetic foot care. Since diabetic wounds take longer to heal and are more susceptible to infection, soft orthotics provide an effective way to support healthy circulation and healing. 

What does getting custom orthotics involve?

Your Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle provider asks about your symptoms, completes a podiatry exam, and takes X-rays. If they determine you have a foot or ankle problem that can benefit from custom orthotics, they use a digital scanner to take three-dimensional images of your feet. 

Your provider sends your scans to a podiatry lab, which creates a pair of custom orthotics. When the lab finishes your orthotics about a week later, you return to the office and try them on. Your provider makes adjustments as needed and explains how to take care of your orthotics.

Call Blackstone Valley Foot and Ankle today to schedule an orthotics consultation, or book your appointment online.