Custom Orthotics
An abnormal gait (walking in a way that puts pressure on the heel) can cause pain. Continually doing high-impact exercise like running, jogging, and jumping, especially on hard surfaces, commonly causes heel pain. Wearing ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can also cause heel pain or make it worse.
One of the most likely causes of pain on the bottom of your heel is plantar fasciitis. This condition develops when inflammation affects the plantar fascia, a piece of connective tissue that runs under your foot.
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Custom orthotics are medical devices prescribed and fabricated to the exact shape of your feet. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, they are made from a cast or 3D scan of your foot and are designed to address your specific structural or functional problem.
They are prescribed for a wide range of conditions including plantar fasciitis, flat feet, high arches, bunions, hammertoes, neuromas, diabetic foot protection, and post-surgical support. The goal is to reduce pain, improve alignment, and redistribute pressure away from problem areas.
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Your doctor will perform a biomechanical foot exam — assessing flexibility, arch height, heel alignment, and how you walk (gait analysis). Pressure mapping or digital scanning may be used to identify where abnormal forces are concentrated.
A prescription is written based on the findings. The orthotic prescription specifies the type of device (rigid, semi-rigid, or soft), the amount of correction needed, and any accommodations for pressure areas. A cast or digital scan is taken of your foot in a corrected, neutral position.
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Custom orthotics are fabricated by a certified orthotics lab from your mold. Turnaround is typically 2–3 weeks. At your fitting appointment, fit and alignment are checked and minor adjustments are made if needed.
Most patients notice improvement within a few weeks of consistent wear. Orthotics work best when paired with appropriate footwear — your doctor will advise on shoe selection.
Orthotics generally last 2–5 years with normal use. Patients with high activity levels or significant deformity may need replacement sooner. Diabetic patients may benefit from specialized accommodative orthotics with extra cushioning.
