Custom Orthotics: Frequently Asked Questions
If you've been experiencing foot pain or soreness consistently, you may be having a structural deformity or faulty gait patterns. When your foot doctor confirms this, then you may need custom foot orthotics. However, you need to know as much as possible about orthotics to get orthotic treatments confidently. Here are FAQs detailing important aspects of custom orthotics.
What's a Custom Orthotic, and How Does It Work?
A custom orthotic refers to a shoe insert that takes the exact outline of the foot. The podiatrist makes a cast mold of your foot and sends it to the manufacturer to create a fitting of your foot's shape with precise modifications. In return, the manufacturer makes custom orthotics that help your feet to take an ideal position.
Ideally, an orthotic decreases high pressure by cushioning your feet against the ground's impact. Also, orthotics help with foot alignment and increase stability when you walk or stand.
How Will Your Custom Orthotics Feel?
When you wear your custom orthotic, you may feel some discomfort, stiffness, or soreness for a short while. However, when you wear perfectly fitting orthotics for some time, the orthotics become comfortable. If pain occurs in new foot areas, or you experience symptoms such as redness or blistering, consider visiting your foot doctor. In such cases, the orthotics may need adjustment. The podiatrist adjusts the orthotics accordingly to achieve the correct fitting and evade foot injuries.
How Long Will You Need To Wear a Custom Orthotic?
Ideally, you should wear orthotics for the period your podiatrist prescribes. Typically, the podiatrist introduces orthotics gradually to fit in your daily routine. Once you get comfortable wearing the orthotics, you can wear them full time. However, your foot doctor will also recommend a break when you don't wear the orthotics to help your foot assume its natural shape and alignment.
Does Insurance Cover Custom Orthotic Services?
Custom orthotics' coverage depends on the insurance plan you have. Ideally, some comprehensive policies will cater to the cost of orthotic treatment while some will not. Sometimes, the insurance will only offer partial coverage. Therefore, you need to confirm with your insurer to plan for payment.
Whether the insurance will cover your orthotics or not, you need to get an affordable podiatrist. You should compare the rates of various professionals and identify those with affordable treatment to save on treatment.
These FAQs explain the definition of custom orthotics and how they work. You also get to know what you'll probably feel when you wear orthotics, the period you should wear orthotics, and whether insurance covers orthotic treatment. With this information, you can confidently get custom orthotic services.
For more information, contact a local clinic, like Advanced Foot Clinic.
