Orthotics: Support from the ground up – because every step matters

 

What Are Orthotics?

  • Orthotics are custom or prefabricated devices worn inside your shoes to support your feet, improve alignment, and redistribute pressure. They are designed to help correct or accommodate biomechanical issues that affect your feet, ankles, knees, hips, or back.

  • Orthotics work like glasses for your feet—they don’t change the structure of your foot, but they help it function more efficiently.

 

Why Might I Need Orthotics?

Your podiatrist may recommend orthotics if you suffer from:

  • Heel pain / Plantar fasciitis

  • Arch pain or flat feet

  • Achilles tendinopathy

  • Forefoot pain / Bunions / Neuromas

  • Shin splints or calf strain

  • Peroneal or posterior tibial dysfunction

  • Knee, hip or lower back pain related to poor foot posture

  • Recurrent overuse injuries

  • Foot fatigue from standing all day

  • Children’s gait abnormalities (flat feet, in-toeing, toe-walking)

 

Orthotics can also help prevent problems in people with diabetes, arthritis, or uneven leg lengths.

 

What Do Orthotics Do?

  • Support the arch and align the foot and lower limb

  • Reduce strain on muscles, tendons, and joints

  • Redistribute pressure, protecting areas like bunions or calluses

  • Improve shock absorption and gait efficiency

  • Assist in injury recovery and prevention

 

When combined with other treatments (like footwear changes, stretching, massage, or strengthening), orthotics can lead to significant and lasting relief.

 

What’s the Process?

1. Assessment:

Your podiatrist will conduct a thorough biomechanical evaluation, gait analysis, and review of your symptoms and footwear.

 

2. 3D Foot Scan:

A digital scan of your foot is taken to ensure a perfect fit.

 

3. Customisation:

Orthotics are tailored based on your foot type, activity level, footwear, and condition.

 

4. Fitting & Follow-Up:

You’ll be fitted in-clinic and reviewed to ensure comfort and performance. Adjustments can be made as needed.

 

Types of Orthotics We Offer

Custom Orthotics: Made specifically for your feet using 3D scans or casts

Prefabricated Orthotics: Ready-made with specific modifications, ideal for milder issues or growing feet

Sport-Specific Orthotics: Designed for running, netball, football, or gym use

Paediatric Orthotics: Soft, supportive options for growing kids

Diabetic Orthotics: Cushioned, pressure-distributing devices for ulcer and injury prevention

 

What to Expect During the Adjustment Period

  • It can take 2–4 weeks for your feet, muscles, and joints to adjust.

  • Start by wearing them 1 hour on the first day, increasing by an hour each day

  • Some arch pressure or mild fatigue is normal during the adjustment phase

  • Use them in supportive shoes with no built-in arch or cushioning

  • Avoid using them during intense exercise for the first few days

  • Contact us if you experience sharp pain or discomfort outside the adjustment window

 

Caring for Your Orthotics

  • Clean with cold water and mild soap (avoid heat and soaking)

  • Let them air dry completely before reusing

  • Avoid transferring them between very different shoe types unless advised

  • Orthotics typically last 1–5 years, depending on usage and material

  • Covers can be replaced if worn out—no need to replace the whole device!

 

Orthotic Review & Maintenance

We recommend a yearly review to ensure your orthotics are still meeting your needs, especially for:

  • Kids who are growing

  • Athletes increasing their training load

  • People returning to activity post-injury

  • Changes in weight, footwear, or lifestyle

 

Ready to Take Pressure Off Your Feet?

Orthotics aren’t just about pain relief—they’re about helping you move better, feel better, and stay active for longer.

 

From your team at Toe-tal Podiatry

Because every step you take deserves the right support!