Our Services / Orthotics

What are orthotics?

Orthotics are custom-crafted heel pads or inserts that you put inside your shoes. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, orthotics are made to support the unique shape and structure of your feet. As a result, they’re more comfortable and better capable of addressing more serious underlying issues.

When are orthotics necessary?

If you regularly experience foot or leg pain, and it doesn’t respond to conservative treatments, like changing your shoes or activity modification, make an appointment with Dr. Berlin.

At Long Lake Podiatry, P.C., Dr. Berlin uses orthotics to:

• Correct foot abnormalities
• Improve the function of the foot and ankle
• Support the ankle
• Reduce the risk of future injuries

Dr. Berlin only prescribes orthotics after you’ve tried an over-the-counter insole or heel pad. If these products don’t ease your symptoms or improve your quality of life, you’re likely a candidate for orthotics.

What conditions can orthotics treat?

At Long Lake Podiatry, P.C., Dr. Berlin uses orthotics to treat various conditions, including:

• Bunions
• Bursitis
• Diabetes
• Flat feet
• Hammertoes
• High arches
• Plantar fasciitis

You might also benefit from orthotics if you experience a sports-related foot or ankle injury that requires support while healing.

What are the types of orthotics?

At Long Lake Podiatry, P.C., Dr. Berlin offers several types of orthotics, including:

Rigid orthotics

Rigid orthotics are stiff and inflexible. They’re made from materials like carbon fiber or plastic and are designed to be worn with close-toed shoes. If you regularly experience foot, thigh, or leg pain, Dr. Berlin might prescribe rigid orthotics.

Accommodative orthotics

Accommodative orthotics are softer and more malleable than rigid orthotics. They’re made from padded compression materials and take pressure off specific painful areas, like a diabetic ulcer or a swollen heel. Often, you need to wear accommodative orthotics with prescription shoes.

What does getting orthotics involve?

At Long Lake Podiatry, P.C., getting orthotics begins with a review of your health history, a discussion of your symptoms, and a physical exam. If Dr. Berlin determines you can benefit, he takes impressions of your feet and sends them to a podiatry laboratory.

Technicians at the podiatry laboratory use your impressions to design and manufacture a custom pair of orthotics that fit your feet perfectly. When the lab finishes your orthotics, you return to Long Lake Podiatry, P.C. to try them on.

To see if you can benefit from orthotics, make an appointment at Long Lake Podiatry, P.C. by calling the nearest office or clicking the online scheduling tool today.