Orthoses Provsion
Macclesfield Podiatry prescribes orthoses for a number of back, lower limb and foot pathologies. Orthoses are shoe inserts that are worn inside the shoe.
Types of orthoses
At Macclesfield Podiatry we prescribe two types of orthoses, these are casted, (also known as bespoke), and non-casted orthoses (sometimes referred to as ‘off the shelf’).
Casted orthoses
Macclesfield Podiatry can provide a pair of casted orthoses if necessary. Casted orthoses are bespoke; this means that they are made to measure. Casted orthoses are made by taking an impression of the foot in its corrected position. Once an impression of the foot has been made a prescription form is then filled out detailing the exact requirements, before being sent away for casting. The prescription for orthoses is formulated using the information gained from a biomechanical assessmentand gait analysis. A biomechanical assessment and gait analysis must be performed prior to casted orthoses being prescribed.
A number of materials can be used in the making of orthoses; the material chosen by the podiatrist will depend on a variety of factors, such as activity level, weight, and pathology.
Non casted orthoses
Non casted orthoses, otherwise known as ‘off the shelf’ orthoses, are insoles that are ready made. Non casted insoles are much cheaper than bespoke orthoses, and for some people they may be all that is necessary to alleviate symptoms, however,they are not suitable for all foot pathologies. Non casted orthoses can also provide a good starting point for which to ‘try out’ orthoses, before purchasing the more expensive bespoke variety.
Benefits of orthoses
Orthoses have differentbenefits depending on the desired outcome, the type of orthoses prescribed, and individual prescription. The benefits that can be achieved through orthoses provision include:
- Pain relief
- Comfort
- Off-loading of painful structures
- Off-loading of wounds, allowing the wound time to heal
- Support
- Improved gait
- Reduction in callus or corn production
- Injury prevention
- Improved lower limb and foot function
What problems can orthoses help with?
Orthoses can improve a variety of foot and lower limb complaints including:
- Tendonitis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Muscle tightness
- ‘flat feet’
- Collapsing of the arch
- Foot pain
- Ankle pain
- Shin pain
- Knee pain
- Hip pain
- Lower back pain
- Functional scoliosis
- Limb length discrepancy
- Iliotibial band syndrome
- Bunion
- Morton’s neuroma
- Corns and callous
- Hallux limitus
If you would like to discuss your problem with a podiatrist in order to see if orthoses would be appropriate, call or email Macclesfield Podiatry.
How do I make an appointment for orthoses?
Prior to orthoses being prescribed you will require a biomechanical assessment with us at Macclesfield Podiatry. To book an assessment with one of our podiatrists, or to discuss orthoses and biomechanical assessment further please email office@macclesfieldpodiatry.co.uk, or call 0161 883 0099.
