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Custom Orthotics Specialist

Foot & Ankle of the Carolinas

Foot and Ankle Surgeons & Podiatrists located in Matthews, NC & Monroe, NC

Custom orthotics are a noninvasive and convenient way to remedy foot issues, protect the feet from further damage, optimize balance, and more. At Foot & Ankle of the Carolinas in Matthews and Monroe, North Carolina, dedicated podiatrists Eric Ward, DPM, and Blaise Woeste, DPM, use the most up-to-date 3D scanning system to personalize your orthotics for maximum effect and superior efficiency. Call the area’s premier podiatry practice or click online booking now.

Custom Orthotics Q & A

What are custom orthotics?

Custom orthotics are medical appliances that correct your foot position. Usually, you get orthotics to fit in the shoes you wear the most. There are two general categories for custom orthotics. 

Functional orthotics

Functional orthotics correct your foot position as you walk, which is called your gait. The main goal of functional orthotics is turning abnormal movements into normal ones. You might need functional orthotics if you have biomechanical foot issues or if you’re recovering from an injury. Most functional orthotics are hard or semi-rigid and can last for years.  

Accommodative orthotics

Accommodative orthotics protect your feet from further damage, so their main role is support and sometimes offloading (reducing pressure on a delicate area). You might need accommodative orthotics if you have calluses, foot ulcers, or other damage on the bottom of your feet. Accommodative orthotics are usually made of soft or semi-soft materials and therefore aren’t quite as durable as functional orthotics.

At Foot & Ankle of the Carolinas, your podiatrist designs orthotics that perfectly fit your foot to give you the maximum effective correction both while you're standing still and in motion. 

What conditions do custom orthotics treat?

Custom orthotics at Foot & Ankle of the Carolinas can treat many foot and ankle conditions and problems, such as:

  • Bunions
  • Blisters
  • Calluses
  • Flatfoot
  • Hammertoe
  • Heel pain
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Neuromas
  • Diabetic foot issues, like slow-healing wounds or foot ulcers
  • Ankle instability

Custom orthotics can also correct many biomechanical foot problems, whether you inherited the issue or developed it over time. Sometimes, custom orthotics aren’t just for problems. If you’re an athlete and want to optimize your performance, custom orthotics can ensure peak foot and ankle function. 

How does orthotic design work?

Foot & Ankle of the Carolinas uses their state-of-the-art 3D scanner to map your foot, so you don't have to deal with messy, goopy, plaster casting at all. The 3D scanner creates a model that allows your podiatrist to design a custom orthotic that's accurate to the micrometer. 

Custom orthotics at Foot & Ankle of the Carolinas use the latest technology and finest materials to correct problems and protect your feet. Book your appointment by calling either office or clicking online booking now.