Custom Orthotics

What Is Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are among the most effective solutions for relieving chronic foot, ankle, and lower leg pain. With their expertise in podiatric treatment solutions, Michael Czurylo, DPM, Hyowon Choi, DPM, and the team at Northwest Foot and Ankle Institute in Bellingham, Washington, design innovative orthotic inserts tailored to you and your condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need custom orthotics?

Orthotics are specialized inserts you place into your shoes to perfectly align your feet, ankles, and overall skeleton. You may benefit from medical-grade shoe orthotics to get relief from:

Plantar fasciitis
Achilles tendonitis
Sprained ankle
Bunions or hammertoes
Heel pain
Flat feet
High arches

Shoe orthotics are even beneficial for supporting your feet and ankles and preventing pain associated with working on your feet all day, running long distances, or playing sports.

Which type of custom orthotics do I need?

Custom orthotics are prescription inserts that are designed specifically for your feet, as well as any underlying condition that causes pain and inflammation. Some of the most common types of shoe orthotics offered at Northwest Foot and Ankle Institute are described below.

Accommodative orthotics

Accommodative orthotics are soft and flexible and provide cushioning if you have soreness across the bottom of your foot from diabetic wounds, plantar fasciitis, or another issue. These orthotics are slightly bulky and are sometimes best paired with diabetic shoes or wide-fitting footwear.

Functional orthotics

Functional orthotics are stiffer and more rigid than accommodative orthotics. They’re ideal for slipping into dress shoes to help with chronic foot, ankle, lower leg, and hip pain.

Heel inserts

Heel inserts are wedge-like devices that you place in the heel of your shoe. They provide support if you have fallen arches or flat feet and can prevent tendonitis and ankle pain flare-ups.

How are custom orthotics made?

Your podiatrist at Northwest Foot and Ankle Institute performs a comprehensive foot and ankle evaluation to determine which type of custom orthotic is right for you. To ensure your orthotics are perfectly designed for each of your feet, the practice utilizes an in-office digital scanner.

The digital scanner captures highly detailed images of your foot, creating a 3D model that your podiatrist then uses to design the optimal orthotic device for your needs.

Your podiatrist can use the scanner to capture images in full, partial, and non-weight bearing positions based on your needs and foot ailment. There’s no messy plaster with the digital scanner, no discomfort, and no long periods of holding in painful positions. The scanner creates instant digital records, which can help reduce the waiting time usually required for custom orthotics. They send your images and orthotic prescription off to the lab to have your orthotics fabricated. Within a couple of weeks, your new orthotics arrive at Northwest Foot and Ankle Institute, and your podiatrist has you come in to ensure they’re properly and comfortably supporting you. They can make any necessary adjustments right in the office.