What Are Custom Orthotics?
Custom foot orthotics are devices designed to be used inside footwear and may be prescribed or recommended for selected individuals following an assessment. They can be considered in relation to foot mechanics, comfort, load distribution and specific functional needs. Common concerns discussed in orthotic assessment may include plantar heel pain, plantar fasciitis, certain foot pain presentations, selected lower-limb alignment or loading concerns, and activity-related symptoms. The need for an orthotic should be determined individually rather than assumed from a foot posture alone.
What Are Braces?
Braces can provide different forms of support depending on their design and intended use. Examples include ankle braces, knee braces, wrist supports, elbow braces, shoulder supports and other orthoses. They may be used following injury, during rehabilitation, for selected joint conditions or when additional external support is clinically appropriate. The correct device depends on the body area, condition, activity requirements and desired function. A brace can not be a cure for an underlying condition.
Assessment and Fitting
At Elevate physio and rehab, an assessment for Orthotics or brace may include discussion of symptoms, footwear, activity, previous injuries, medical history and functional goals. Our practitioner may examine movement, strength, joint mobility, gait and the way the affected area responds to activity. For custom orthotics, the practitioner may also consider footwear and foot mechanics. A device should fit appropriately and be introduced according to the relevant clinical recommendations.
Orthotics and Rehabilitation
Orthotics and braces are often most useful when considered as one component of a broader plan. Depending on the condition, treatment may also include strengthening, mobility exercises, gait or movement retraining, activity modification and education. For example, a person with plantar heel pain may benefit from a combination of load management and exercise rather than relying on an orthotic alone. Similarly, a knee brace may provide support during selected activities but may not address all contributing strength or movement factors.
Common Questions About Effectiveness
The effect of an orthotic or brace varies from person to person and depends on the condition, device, fit and other aspects of care. An orthotic alone can't correct posture, prevent injury, eliminate pain or avoid surgery. Similarly, a brace can't be a means of providing protection against every possible injury but both of them can prove very useful in providing symptom relief, support and prevent re-injury to the respective body part.
Care, Use and Monitoring
Patients should follow the fitting and use instructions provided for their device. Skin irritation, pressure areas, worsening pain, numbness or changes in circulation should not be ignored. A practitioner may recommend gradual introduction for some devices, depending on the individual's circumstances. Devices may also need adjustment or replacement as physical needs, footwear, activity levels or the condition changes.