WHAT ARE ORTHOTICS?
Orthotics is a general term for a corrective or protective therapy for the body. This term includes orthotic arch supports placed inside shoes (singular – orthosis). An orthosis can also be things such as back braces, knee braces and hand splints etc. The professionals who diagnose, prescribe, fit and fabricate Orthotics is called an Orthotist and Podiatrist
WHAT DO ORTHOTICS DO?
A functional foot Orthosis is a means to control and correct abnormal alignment and re-distribute forces of the foot, ankle and even the knee or lower back. This acts to reduce pain and deformities (e.g. heel spurs), prevent injury and increase comfort and performance for sports, walking or running.
WHAT SHOES WILL FIT THE ORTHOTICS?
An assessment of your current footwear is undertaken at you initial assessment. There are different types of orthotics which can be made so they fit the majority of your favourite footwear. However, not every pair of shoes is able to fit orthotics. Some shoes are also not suitable for your foot health and recommendations may be given to assist your feet. When buying new shoes, always remember to take your orthotics with you so you can fit them with the new footwear.
IS THERE ANY MAINTENANCE?
Orthotics & Feet need regular maintenance. To clean, use only warm water and mild soap. Air out your orthotics regularly but DO NOT dry them in heat over 30 deg. Your Complete Feet practitioner will advise you how often you are required to return for changes and maintenance. These are known as review visits.
WHY ARE MY ORTHOTICS UNCOMFORTABLE? OUR 200% COMFORT & CARE GUARANTEE
You may feel slight discomfort and tightness until your feet become accustomed to your orthotics. If discomfort becomes too great, rest your feet from the orthotics, avoiding impact sports, long runs or walks. Repeat this process until you feel more comfortable wearing your orthotics for longer periods. For custom Orthotic therapy we include 3 visits within 3 months to make adjustments to your orthotics and treatment program. If you feel that further adjustments / treatments are required, please contact Complete Feet immediately.
HOW LONG WILL THEY LAST?
To judge the life of orthotics is difficult, as there are many factors involved such as the patient’s weight, wearing time, wearing environment, etc. Generally, your orthotics should last between 2 to 4 years for semi-rigid and up to 5 years for rigid orthotics. If required, your orthotics may be re-covered. A review notice will be sent to you to remind you to return for review visits.