The Differences between Pre-made and Custom Foot Orthotics

According to research, approx. 75% of Canadians suffer from foot problems at least once in their lifetime. One thing is common among the foot and ankle issues - all of these problems can be treated with foot orthotics, at least in the beginning stage. Simply put, an orthotic device is designed to fit inside the shoes and help the patients to relieve pain and discomfort.

 

Research shows that wearing foot orthotics can address several problems, including abnormal motion, balance problems, misalignment, and mild to severe pain. When it comes to choosing the orthotics to reduce pain, there are two options - custom foot orthotics and over-the-counter insoles. 

 

It’s true that tailor-made orthotics are way more expensive, and insurance usually does not cover them. But if reducing discomfort is the main target you want to achieve, then there is no other option at all. Over-the-counter insole is a much more cost-effective solution, but it does not alleviate the pain as custom foot orthotics do. Read this article to learn why custom insoles are really worth the money. 

What Are Orthotics?

Orthotics is shoe inserts that help people correct the abnormalities in the feet, reduce pain and prevent further injury. Generally, orthotics is available in different sizes and materials. 

What are the Differences Between Custom and Over-the-Counter Foot Orthotics?

Usually, a doctor, sports medicine physician or podiatrist makes custom foot orthotics after evaluating your ankles, gait, and overall foot structure. Actually, orthotics is a device that doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all solution. Since everyone has different foot structures, wearing the same orthotics may not help them to correct their foot problems and reduce pain. 

 

It’s true that you may find various over-the-counter orthotics in pharmacies or online, such as insoles, heel liners, arch supports, and foot cushions. Not every prefabricated shoe insert is made the same way; you may notice the difference, especially when it comes to the level of support. 

Functionality 

Let’s talk about functionality. Custom foot orthotics provides support, while over-the-counter insoles only offer cushioning. This type of orthotics can be bent very easily. Usually, the experts in Mississauga make them with various materials, such as, 

 

·         Silicone, 

·         Foam

·         Polyethylene

·         Rubber. 

 

But the orthotics which is made for foot support is rigid. They are usually made of carbon fibre and plastic. 

Fitting and Prescription

Remember that you don’t need any prescription to buy pre-made orthotics from the shop. Since they are available in wide ranges, you have to pick the one that best suits you. But that’s not true for custom foot orthotics. Tailor-made orthotics are made according to your size and are not the best solution for others. Therefore, you have to show a prescription to make custom foot orthotics. 

 

The professional physician who has made the insole will explain how your feet feel and when it hurts. After that, the experts will analyze how your lower limbs move and how you walk through a thorough physical examination. Once the expert in Mississauga identifies your problem, the professional creates a mould and fabricates orthotics out of the mould. 

Durability

Pre-made orthotics generally serve you for 1 to 2 years; on the other hand, customized foot orthotics can last for 5 to 10 years. The reason is that the pre-made insoles are made of cheap material and follow a one-size-fits-all approach. Remember that durability depends mainly upon the material, and the material of personalized insoles is much better than pre-made orthotics. 

Walk Without Pain!

Custom foot orthotics, without a doubt, are one of the most efficient ways of treating foot problems. But to get the best out of it, you must wear them correctly and inside the right shoes. While wearing them, you should consider whether the shoes are comfortable, which will help you to prevent further. Anyway, if you want to wear custom foot orthotics, contact us at Derry Health And Wellness in Mississauga.