Many people are blown away when they find out that a pair of custom made foot orthotics are so expensive when it looks like there is nothing to it. But what is not realized is that there are many steps during the fabrication process in the lab to construct these medical devices. All that is seen during the assessment is the casting of the feet using a foam box with both feet in subtalar neutral position followed by scheduling a pick up time. Within the time leading up to the pick up appointment, the lab is working to make the pair of custom made foot orthotics truly custom to each of my clients feet as they are designed to treat their foot or lower limb ailment.

So what are the step that it takes to make a pair of custom made foot orthotics??

At every stage of our lives we can see foot types and shapes that are individual to each of us and as we age. Our feet do change through the course of our lives but what if we start off in our early years with the dreaded flat foot? This flat foot type or pes planus is known to be a problematic foot type and many are quick to think this is a cause of concern even when no pain is associated with it. Though each foot type - flat, normal or high (pes cavus), all come with their own biomechanical anomalies. Yes, even a normal foot type can be very problematic for many.

So much controversy regarding whether or not a child should be fitted to a pair of custom made foot orthotics, or any type of insert that alters the position of their growing feet. Because the bones in childrens feet have not yet ossified and is still adapting to its environment, my rule of thumb is: if the child is experiencing pain when he/she are active, then orthotics may be considered. If it is the parents worry because the child doesn't look right while they are walking (feet rolling in, knees knocking or bow legged or intoeing gait) but is experiencing no pain, I suggest to monitor their child for the next year or two to see if they start complaining of any pain.  Then re-evaluate at that point.

It seems to me that everywhere you look orthotics are being sold almost anywhere these days and on every corner of the block, depending on where you live. From the trade show/plowing match trailer set up to the fitness equipment store to the health care professional who’s designation is no where close to any a foot specialist designation, orthotics seem to be a product to buy like a pair of shoes. This type of marketing stating that everyone and anyone should be wearing orthotics denotes the whole purpose of orthotics being a medical device to correct lower limb biomechanical anomalies. The question that needs to be asked is: what is the difference between picking up a pair of orthotics from a trade show versus going to a health care profession who is trained in dispensing a pair of custom made foot orthotics?