Custom Orthotics in Illinois

Personalized Foot Support for Comfort and Mobility

Custom orthotics are medical devices designed to support, align, and improve the function of your feet. Unlike over-the-counter shoe inserts, custom orthotics are specifically crafted to fit the unique shape of your feet and address your individual needs. Whether you’re experiencing chronic foot pain, recovering from an injury, or seeking better support for daily activities, orthotics can play a key role in restoring comfort and improving mobility.

What Do Orthotics Help With?

Podiatrists often recommend orthotics for a wide range of foot and lower limb conditions, including:

• Plantar Fasciitis: Heel pain caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia.
• Flat Feet (Fallen Arches): Orthotics can provide arch support and correct alignment.
• High Arches: Extra cushioning and stability to reduce stress on the feet.
• Bunions: Orthotics may help reduce pressure and slow progression.
• Hammertoes: Relief from abnormal pressure and friction in shoes.
• Diabetic Foot Problems: Protection from ulcers and pressure points.
• Arthritis of the Foot and Ankle: Support to reduce joint stress and pain.
• Achilles Tendinitis: Improved heel and arch support to relieve tendon strain.
• Shin Splints & Knee Pain: Correcting gait imbalances that contribute to pain.
• Sports-Related Foot Injuries: Reducing the risk of overuse injuries with proper support.

Signs That May Indicate a Need for Orthotics

If you’re experiencing any of the following, a podiatry evaluation may be beneficial:

• Frequent heel or arch pain
• Pain that worsens after walking or standing
• Uneven shoe wear patterns
• Difficulty standing for long periods
• Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back linked to foot mechanics
• Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in the feet
• Recurrent foot or ankle injuries

Diagnosing the Need for Orthotics

A thorough evaluation helps determine whether custom orthotics are right for you. This process may include:

• Comprehensive Medical History: Reviewing your symptoms, activity level, and any existing health conditions.
• Physical Examination: Assessing foot structure, flexibility, and alignment.
• Gait Analysis: Studying how you walk to identify imbalances or abnormal movement patterns.
• Imaging: X-rays or other imaging may be used to assess underlying bone or joint issues.

Types of Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics are designed for specific purposes, including:

• 3D scanning to create a digital mold of the foot.
• Functional Orthotics: Made from semi-rigid materials to control abnormal foot motion, often prescribed for sports injuries or biomechanical issues.
• Accommodative Orthotics: Softer, cushioned devices designed to relieve pressure and improve comfort, particularly for conditions like diabetes or arthritis.
• Specialized Orthotics: Custom devices made for athletes, workers who stand for long periods, or patients with unique foot structures.

Benefits of Custom Orthotics

Properly fitted orthotics can provide:

• Improved foot and ankle alignment
• Reduced pain in the feet, knees, hips, and lower back
• Enhanced shock absorption
• Prevention of future injuries
• Increased comfort and endurance during daily activities or sports

Getting Your Custom Orthotics

At Fox Valley Orthopedics, our podiatry team specializes in designing orthotics tailored to your unique needs. After a full evaluation, we’ll take precise measurements and impressions of your feet to create orthotics that fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.

Schedule an appointment online or call 855-386-7846 today to learn more about how custom orthotics can help you walk, move, and live more comfortably.