Every step shouldn't be a source of pain, yet many people simply accept that discomfort is “the way it is.” Perhaps you've tried over-the-counter insoles or supportive shoes, but the relief is temporary at best.
At Canyon Foot + Ankle Specialists, we understand your frustration, and stress that you shouldn’t have to settle for anything less than feeling your best. We've helped countless patients overcome persistent foot pain through properly fitted custom orthotics. These specialized inserts do more than just cushion your feet—they address the underlying issues causing your discomfort.
Let's explore how custom orthotics could be the solution you've been seeking for long-term foot pain relief.
How Do Custom Orthotics Work?
Think of your feet as your body’s foundation. When they’re misaligned, they affect everything above them. Custom orthotics provide precise support exactly where your feet need it most, helping to restore proper alignment and function.
Unlike generic insoles that offer only basic cushioning, custom orthotics are medical devices crafted specifically for your feet using detailed measurements and impressions. They account for your unique foot structure, gait pattern, and specific condition to provide targeted support and correction. Here are the two types we prescribe in our offices.
Functional (Rigid) Orthotics
These are made from firm materials like graphite, carbon fiber, or plastic and are designed to control motion and correct biomechanical foot issues. Think of them like a brace that guides your foot into proper alignment. They tend to be thinner and work best in closed-toe shoes. Functional orthotics help with issues like overpronation, structural misalignments, and conditions that affect your gait like plantar fasciitis or shin splints.
Accommodative (Soft) Orthotics
These are crafted from softer, cushioning materials like foam or silicone and are designed to provide relief from pressure and pain. Imagine them as a tailored cushion that redistributes weight away from painful areas. They're often thicker than rigid orthotics and can be made to fit into most footwear. Accommodative orthotics are particularly helpful for diabetic foot problems, painful calluses, arthritis, and other conditions where pressure relief is the primary goal.
Sometimes, depending on your condition, our foot doctors might prescribe a hybrid orthotic that combines elements of both types to address multiple issues simultaneously.
Signs You Need Custom Orthotics for Foot Pain
Unless you suffer a sudden acute injury, symptoms of discomfort usually come on gradually. Then, before you know it, you’re having trouble walking, standing, or even sleeping comfortably. Remember: pain isn’t normal. Many of our patients experience the following—if you are too, schedule an appointment with Canyon Foot + Ankle Specialists right away.
Persistent Arch Pain
This presents especially during activity, and often indicates inadequate support for your foot's natural structure. This discomfort typically worsens throughout the day as your feet fatigue from lack of proper support. Without intervention, this strain can lead to more serious conditions.
Ball of Foot Pain
Medically known as metatarsalgia this condition creates a burning or aching sensation in the area behind your toes. It’s sometimes referred to as a stone bruise because it feels like walking on pebbles and worsens when wearing shoes with poor cushioning or high heels. Customized orthotic support redistributes pressure away from this sensitive area.
Recurring Heel Pain
Some of the most common reasons for sharp, stabbing pain, particularly with those first steps in the morning, include heel spurs, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and other structural issues. Orthotic insoles effectively address these issues in various ways, including shifting your gait away from the area of discomfort to providing more support for ligaments and tendons.
Neuropathy
Numbness, tingling, or burning sensations in your feet may indicate neuropathy, a condition affecting the nerves in your feet. While custom orthotics can’t cure this condition, they help manage symptoms by reducing pressure points and providing proper cushioning that minimizes nerve irritation. We find this specialized support is particularly crucial for our patients with diabetes who need to prevent complications from neuropathy.
Bunions
If you’ve noticed a bump forming at the base of your big toe, accompanied by constant redness and tenderness, you might have a bunion developing. Our medical devices can help by redistributing pressure away from the area and providing support that helps prevent further progression of the deformity.
Flat Feet
Also known as fallen arches, this structural issue causes pain not just in your feet but throughout your entire body. When your arches lack natural support, it affects your walking pattern and can lead to discomfort in your ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. Orthotics create an artificial arch that provides the support your feet naturally lack, helping to restore proper alignment and reduce pain.
Take the First Step Toward Lasting Relief
Don't let foot pain limit your daily activities any longer. Our Twin Falls and Burley podiatrists provide thorough evaluations to determine if custom orthotics will resolve your specific condition and provide lasting relief. While the initial investment may be higher than over-the-counter options, custom orthotics typically last three to five years with proper care—a worthy investment to address the root cause of your pain.