Orthotics
An orthotic is an insole that goes into your shoe to improve posture,
foot/lower limb function, improve shock absorption, improve bio-feedback and
relieve symptoms. There are many different types of orthotics available today.
> Over the counter orthotics
> Custom made orthotics
> Fitting
Over-the-counter orthotics
Over-the-counter orthotics can be bought in many pharmacies and these offer generic, minimal support but this can
often be sufficient to resolve many conditions, costing roughly £25. Clinicians
can also prescribe stronger already made orthotics which can often be adapted to
give more or less control on the either foot at a cost of approximately
£50.
Custom made orthotic
A custom made orthotic is made specifically
for your foot. Commonly the podiatrist will take an impression
of your foot, and along with the measurements taken during the hands-on
assessment will write a specific prescription.
Theseare sent to a lab for the manufacturing of the
device.
A custom made orthotic will cost substantially more than
the prefabricated devices. The increase in cost is due to the time and skill it
takes to make these devices. Again, as a rough guide, these can cost anything
from £150 - £200. There is no separate cost for the cast. It is advisable
to clarify all costs involved in advance.
Often custom made orthotics are manufactured at an external laboratory and this normally takes
about 3-4 weeks. Some clinicians may adjust their orthotics on site to save on lab costs
The orthotic itself can vary tremendously in material, length and size.
Footwear and specific sporting activities have to be considered when an orthotic
is prescribed. Orthotics can be hard, soft, short, stopping half way down your
foot or even full length due to a top-cover extension.
Fitting appointments
There is generally a fitting appointment once
your orthotics are manufactured. This is included in the initial
charge for your device .
At the fitting appointment the clinician should check the fit
of the device to your foot and also to your shoe. You should also be advised on
how to wear in your devices. This will be provided in both a verbal and
written format.
foot/lower limb function, improve shock absorption, improve bio-feedback and
relieve symptoms. There are many different types of orthotics available today.
> Over the counter orthotics
> Custom made orthotics
> Fitting
Over-the-counter orthotics
Over-the-counter orthotics can be bought in many pharmacies and these offer generic, minimal support but this can
often be sufficient to resolve many conditions, costing roughly £25. Clinicians
can also prescribe stronger already made orthotics which can often be adapted to
give more or less control on the either foot at a cost of approximately
£50.
Custom made orthotic
A custom made orthotic is made specifically
for your foot. Commonly the podiatrist will take an impression
of your foot, and along with the measurements taken during the hands-on
assessment will write a specific prescription.
Theseare sent to a lab for the manufacturing of the
device.
A custom made orthotic will cost substantially more than
the prefabricated devices. The increase in cost is due to the time and skill it
takes to make these devices. Again, as a rough guide, these can cost anything
from £150 - £200. There is no separate cost for the cast. It is advisable
to clarify all costs involved in advance.
Often custom made orthotics are manufactured at an external laboratory and this normally takes
about 3-4 weeks. Some clinicians may adjust their orthotics on site to save on lab costs
The orthotic itself can vary tremendously in material, length and size.
Footwear and specific sporting activities have to be considered when an orthotic
is prescribed. Orthotics can be hard, soft, short, stopping half way down your
foot or even full length due to a top-cover extension.
Fitting appointments
There is generally a fitting appointment once
your orthotics are manufactured. This is included in the initial
charge for your device .
At the fitting appointment the clinician should check the fit
of the device to your foot and also to your shoe. You should also be advised on
how to wear in your devices. This will be provided in both a verbal and
written format.
