Custom Orthotics and Arch Supports: What to Expect at Your Assessment

Foot pain has a way of affecting everything, from how far you walk to how you feel at the end of a workday. Custom-made arch supports and foot orthotics are one option that may help support the way your feet work. This guide walks through what happens at an assessment, so nothing about the process is a surprise.

What Are Custom Foot Orthotics?

A foot orthotic is a device that sits inside your shoe to support or redirect how your foot moves and bears load. A custom-made orthotic is designed from a scan or impression of your own feet, and shaped to suit your anatomy, your movement and your footwear. Off-the-shelf insoles are made to a general shape. Custom orthotics are made for you.

People consider custom orthotics for many reasons, including foot, ankle, knee or lower-back discomfort, changes in foot shape, arthritis, diabetes-related foot concerns, or specific work or sporting demands. Whether an orthotic is the right option depends on your individual situation, and that is what an assessment is for.

Step by Step: Your Assessment

1. A Conversation About You

We start by listening. Where does it hurt, when, and what makes it better or worse? We will ask about your health history, your work and activities, the shoes you wear most and anything you have already tried.

2. A Physical and Movement Assessment

Next we look at your feet, ankles, legs and posture. We check joint movement and strength, and we watch you stand and walk. Seeing how your feet behave in action tells us more than looking at them at rest.

3. A Look at Your Footwear

Please bring the shoes you wear most often. Worn-down soles, shoe shape and fit tell us a lot, and they matter because the orthotic has to work inside your shoe.

4. Scanning or Impressions

We take a 3D scan or impression of your feet, which is used to design your orthotics. It is quick and comfortable.

5. Design and Fabrication

Your orthotics are designed and made, with materials and features chosen for your needs and your footwear. Some people need a firm, supportive device for walking and standing. Others need a slimmer one that fits into dress shoes or sports shoes.

6. Fitting and Follow-Up

When your orthotics are ready, we check the fit inside your shoes, explain how to wear them in and arrange a follow-up. Adjustments are a normal part of the process.

Getting Used to New Orthotics

Your feet may need time to adjust. Your orthotist will give you guidance on a gradual wear-in, which usually means building up the hours you wear them over the first days and weeks. Mild awareness of the device is common early on. Ongoing pain, blisters or numbness are not something to push through, so get in touch with us if that happens.

Footwear Matters

Even a very good orthotic will struggle in a shoe that does not suit it. Look for shoes with a firm heel counter, enough depth and a removable insole. For people with more complex needs, we can advise on medical grade footwear and shoe modifications, which change the shoe itself to work with your feet.

Custom or Off-the-Shelf?

Prefabricated insoles are readily available and some people find them comfortable and suitable. If you have tried them and they have not worked for you, if your feet are an unusual shape, or if you have a condition that needs specific support, a custom device may be worth discussing with a clinician.

Three Common Myths About Orthotics

'Firmer is always better.' Not necessarily. The right amount of support depends on your feet, your activity and your footwear. Some people are more comfortable with a flexible, cushioned device.

'Once you start wearing them, you'll need them forever.' This is a common worry. Whether you continue to need orthotics depends on why you were prescribed them and how your body and activity change. Your orthotist can discuss this with you at review.

'They are only for athletes.' People of all ages and activity levels wear orthotics, from children to older adults, and for work, everyday life and sport.

How Long Do They Last?

It depends on the materials, how often you wear them and how active you are. Your orthotics should be checked at review appointments, and replaced or refurbished when they no longer do their job.

Funding

Depending on your situation, funding for orthotics may be available through the NDIS, DVA or private health cover. Ask us what is relevant to you and whether you need a referral or supporting documentation.

Looking After Your Orthotics

Wipe your orthotics with a damp cloth and mild soap when they need cleaning, and let them dry naturally. Keep them away from heat, such as a hot car dashboard or a heater, because heat can distort some materials. If you use them in more than one pair of shoes, check that they fit each pair properly. Bring your orthotics, and the shoes you wear them in, to every review.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between custom orthotics and shop-bought arch supports?

Shop-bought supports are made to a general shape. Custom orthotics are designed from a scan or impression of your feet and made to suit your anatomy, movement and footwear.

How long does it take to get used to custom orthotics?

Most people build up wear gradually over the first days and weeks. Your orthotist will give you a wear-in plan. Ongoing pain or skin problems should be reviewed.

Do I need a referral for custom orthotics?

It depends on your funding pathway. Contact us and we can tell you what is needed for your situation.

Next Step

Ready to find out whether custom-made arch supports could suit you? Contact our team on (02) 4415 9510 or visit x-tremity.com to book an assessment at one of our clinics across NSW and Victoria.