Step 1: Initial Consultation and Evaluations
Your orthotic journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation by a podiatrist. This appointment typically lasts 30-45 minutes and involves several important components.
First, we’ll discuss your symptoms in detail, including when the pain started, what activities make it better or worse, and how it’s affecting your daily life. We’ll also review your medical history, current medications, and any previous treatments you’ve tried.
Next comes a thorough physical examination of your feet and lower legs. We’ll assess your foot structure, check for areas of tenderness or swelling, and evaluate your range of motion. We’ll also examine your current shoes to look for wear patterns that might indicate biomechanical issues.
A gait analysis is often performed, where we observe how you walk and stand. This might involve walking on a treadmill or across the room while we analyze your foot mechanics and identify any abnormal movement patterns.
Step 2: Determining if Orthotics Are Right for You
Not everyone who comes in for foot pain needs custom orthotics. Based on the evaluation, we’ll determine whether orthotics are the best treatment option for your specific condition. Sometimes other treatments like physical therapy, medication, or footwear changes might be more appropriate.
If orthotics are recommended, we’ll discuss the type that would work best for your needs, lifestyle, and the shoes you typically wear. We’ll also talk about realistic expectations for improvement and the timeline for seeing results.
Step 3: Taking Measurements and Impressions
Once we’ve determined that custom orthotics are appropriate, the next step is capturing the exact shape and measurements of your feet. There are several methods we might use:
- Foam casting involves stepping into foam boxes that capture a three-dimensional impression of your feet. This method is comfortable and provides excellent detail.
- Plaster casting creates highly accurate molds but involves wrapping your feet in plaster bandages, similar to making a cast for a broken bone.
- 3D scanning uses advanced technology to create precise digital models of your feet. This method is quick, comfortable, and allows for detailed analysis.
We’ll also take specific measurements and notes about any corrections or accommodations needed based on your diagnosis and foot structure.
Step 4: Prescription and Manufacturing
Creating your custom orthotics involves writing a detailed prescription that specifies the exact materials, corrections, and accommodations needed. This prescription includes information about your diagnosis, foot type, activity level, and treatment goals.
The prescription is sent to a specialized orthotic laboratory where skilled technicians craft your orthotics according to our precise specifications. The manufacturing process typically takes one to two weeks, depending on the complexity and materials used.
Quality labs use advanced materials and techniques to ensure your orthotics will be durable, comfortable, and effective for your specific needs.
Step 5: Fitting and Adjustment
When your orthotics are ready, you’ll return for a fitting appointment. This is a crucial step where we ensure the orthotics fit properly in your shoes and feel comfortable on your feet.
We’ll check that the orthotics provide appropriate support and correction without causing pressure points or discomfort. Minor adjustments can often be made in the office, such as padding certain areas or modifying the shape slightly.
You’ll receive detailed instructions on how to break in your new orthotics gradually. Most people start by wearing them for just a few hours each day, gradually increasing wear time as their feet adjust to the new support.
Step 6: Follow-Up Care
Follow-up appointments are essential for ensuring your orthotics are working effectively. We typically schedule a check-up appointment 2-4 weeks after you receive your orthotics to assess how you’re responding to treatment.
During follow-up visits, we’ll ask about your comfort level, any changes in your symptoms, and whether you’re having any issues with the orthotics. Additional adjustments can be made if needed to optimize your results.
Most patients notice some improvement within the first few weeks, with continued improvement over the first few months as their body adjusts to the improved foot mechanics.
What About Cost and Insurance?
Custom orthotics are often covered by insurance, especially when they’re prescribed for medical conditions rather than general comfort. We’ll help you understand your coverage and provide any necessary documentation for insurance claims.
While custom orthotics require an initial investment, they typically last several years with proper care, making them cost-effective compared to ongoing pain management or other treatments.
Making the Process Smooth
To make your orthotic experience as smooth as possible, bring the shoes you wear most often to your appointments. This helps ensure the orthotics will fit properly in your regular footwear.
Be prepared to discuss your lifestyle, work requirements, and activity level in detail, as this information helps us create orthotics that will work best for your specific needs.
The custom orthotic process is designed to provide you with the best possible outcome for your foot health. While it requires some time and patience, most patients find the results well worth the investment in their comfort and mobility.
If you’re experiencing foot pain or discomfort, Proliance Northwest Foot and Ankle Specialists at (425) 337-7000 or request an appointment online to learn whether custom orthotics might be right for you.
If you’re experiencing foot pain or discomfort, contact Proliance Northwest Foot and Ankle Specialists at (425) 337-7000 or request an appointment online to learn whether custom orthotics might be right for you.
