Foot and ankle pain can be debilitating and interfere with daily life. Orthotics can relieve chronic pain, or ensure proper healing after an injury. The expert podiatrists at North Shore Foot & Ankle in Syosset, NY, Flushing, NY, Rosedale, NY, Plainview, NY, and Lynbrook NY can prescribe orthotics that will make walking, running, and daily activities easy and pain-free. To schedule a consultation, contact the office or schedule an appointment online.

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What are orthotics?

Orthotics, also called orthoses, are special devices that are worn with shoes to alleviate pain and promote healing. Orthotics include simple inserts or pads you can buy at the store, high-quality inserts, braces or pads that require a prescription, and custom-made devices.

Why do I need orthotics?

Custom orthotics align the structures of the foot and ankle; they relieve pressure and help you balance when walking, running, or standing. Orthotics are useful for a variety of conditions, including:

  • Pain in the heel, arch, ankle or legs
  • Hip, back, and knee issues
  • Malformed structures in the foot or ankle
  • Arthritis
  • Diabetic foot problems
  • Neuroma

A consultation with one of the caring providers at North Shore Foot & Ankle will help determine the cause of your pain, and whether orthotics will help or if there is another treatment solution you should consider.

What kind of custom orthotics do I need?

After your consultation, the experienced podiatrists at North Shore Foot & Ankle will discuss all of your options, and together you’ll determine which orthotics are best for your foot concerns and lifestyle.

Types of orthotics that your provider might recommend include:

  • Foot pads to cushion the foot to limit pressure that contributes to pain
  • Shoe inserts to support your foot and redistribute weight
  • Braces that support and align the joints

If you have very mild foot pain, over-the-counter orthotics might be helpful, but for moderate to severe issues, it’s essential to have a prescription for the best orthotics for your condition. Prescription orthotics cost a bit more, but they are also made of more durable materials, and they have a superior design that ensures optimal results.

How long will I have to wear my orthotics?

If you have an injury, an orthotic is usually temporary support that ensures your muscles, tendons, and connective tissue are in their proper positions during the healing process. If you have chronic foot problems, or significant imbalance in the alignment of your foot or ankle, you will most likely need to wear your custom orthotics on an ongoing basis. In general, orthotics can’t permanently correct chronic issues, but they can reduce pain and difficulty while you wear them, and this can reduce inflammation and discomfort overall.

To learn more about custom orthotics, call North Shore Foot & Ankle or schedule a consultation online.