What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are orthopaedic devices designed to treat or adjust various biomechanical foot problems or foot disorders that affect not only the foot, but the entire musculoskeletal system.

The best Orthotics are custom-made devices specifically crafted to meet the needs of a particular individual. This is done by either making a plaster mould impression or creating a digital image of the foot, called a cast.

After an initial biomechanical assessment, if orthotics are required, Dr Rao will recommend the Orthotic that best suits you. The finished Orthotic is then placed in the individual’s shoe and helps keep the foot in the correct alignment. This in turn may correct the alignment of the shin bone, the knees, the hips, and the lower and upper back. 

Who should use Orthotics?

Due to the hard, man-made, unnatural surfaces that we now walk on, perfect feet are very rare, and almost anyone can benefit from Orthotics. They can prevent and alleviate many of the common foot complications that cause discomfort in otherwise healthy people. They can alleviate foot, shin, knee, hip, and back pain. Almost anyone can achieve some benefit from an Orthotic. There are several common symptoms that may indicate mal-alignment of the feet.

You may need Orthotics if:

•  One side of your shoe sole wears out faster than the other

•  You frequently sprain your ankle

•  You have chronic heel, foot, shin, knee or lower back pain

•  Your toes are not straight

•  Your feet are “flat”

•  Your feet point inward or outward when you walk

•  Your feet hurt in general

What are the Orthotics made of?

The Orthotic shells are made from Polypropylene, EVA, and Composite, in a range of thicknesses. There are a number of different materials we use for additions and coverings with different thickness and density, which you can choose for the prescription.

How are my Orthotics prescribed?

A comprehensive biomechanical assessment is undertaken including both visual and computerised gait analysis. State of the art 3D technology is used to obtain pin-point accurate foot surface measurements to a fraction of a millimeter.