Definition: Custom orthotics and arch supports are made from a mold of the feet. The “mold” can come from a digitized foot scan or crush box, a foam material encased in a box where each foot is “crushed” into the box. Another molding technique uses a gauze and plaster wrapping process. Although technology is making it possible for custom supports to be made faster and easier, in most instances it is still a labor intensive process. Each physician making the order and each technician making the device, have their preferred materials and methods.
Custom orthotics are made with a plastazote covering for diabetics. Toe fillers are always custom made.
The basis of custom orthotic fabrication is a concept called “subtalar neutral”. This means that when the ankle/heel is positioned in subtalar neutral, the foot can, with longitudinal arch support, proceed to make the optimal step in optimal rotation. To accomplish this, the mold must be made with the ankle in subtalar neutral and this is not always successful.
Since this is a process that requires specialized training and materials, it is not inexpensive, commonly costing as little as $200 and as much as $500. They are made in soft, medium and rigid materials, determined by what the physician prescribes and what the technician believes works best. Most are rather thick and fit only in depth or athletic shoes. This makes it difficult for women who must dress in business casual to find shoes they will fit in so they tend to only wear them in atheltic shoes.
Benefits: Most podiatrists and orthopedic physicians believe this is the best way to approach arch support – made to the person’s actual foot and its needs based on a set of calculations and preferred materials. Those with custom supports give good and bad reviews – some love them and others don’t wear them because they are too hard or don’t fit in their shoes. The price is prohibitive for many.
Text: Copyright 2010 Carole Romig Image: Coloradospringshoesandorthotics.com, Hotfrog.com