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What are foot orthoses?

Foot orthoses, commonly called orthotics, are specially designed shoe inserts, such as an ankle-foot brace, that help to support the feet and improve foot posture. Foot orthoses can be a valuable addition to your treatment regime and help to treat chronic overuse injuries, reduce pain and help correct biomechanical issues that affect your posture and walking pattern.

I have a question about having a orthoses fitting

What do foot orthoses do?

Foot orthoses are used to alter walking/running patterns and redistribute pressure to improve function and allow injured structures to heal. This can include relief of foot, heel, ankle, leg and back pain.

What is the difference between orthoses and prosthesis?

Orthoses are orthotic supports used to correct or enhance your movement and redistribute pressure to alleviate and prevent aches and pains.

A prosthesis is used to replace a part of the body that may be missing or underdeveloped, usually to aid movement or function.

Will I have to wear foot orthoses forever?

Some people have an injury that require orthotics to reduce pressure and support the healing process but do not need to wear foot orthoses forever. Others may need to continue to use orthotics if they help to prevent a structural or functional issue which could cause long term pain.

Your Podiatrist will be able to observe your foot posture with and without foot orthoses and provide advice on your own personal circumstance.

Strengthening exercises and stretches typically relieve the stress and muscle strain in your feet, giving your feet the best chance of maintaining the correct function and requiring less support from an ankle-foot orthosis.

What are the benefits of having orthoses fitted?

Having a custom orthosis fitting is usually recommended after a gait analysis shows issues in the way you stand, walk or run.

Foot orthoses can alleviate aches and pains caused by plantar fasciitis, bursitis, arthritis and diabetes.

They can support and redistribute pressure to reduce stress on your joints, which can also prevent further damage to your feet and joints and back.

What should I expect after my orthoses fitting?

Your podiatrist will advise you on when and how long you need to use your orthoses for, which can differ from person to person.

Your Podiatrist may also recommend exercises, physiotherapy, or other Podiatry treatments to alleviate your problems.

How much do foot orthoses cost?

Gait analysis and custom orthoses fitting packages are available upon request.

To find out more, complete our online form or call our Private Patient Team on 01580 363158.

Sports injury care at Benenden Hospital

Sports injury care

Whether you're an amateur or a professional athlete, sports injuries can be a frustrating and painful part of participating in physical activity.

That's why we offer a wide range of self-pay treatment options - so you can get back to taking part in the sports you love.

Our Consultants

Mr Stapleton

Liam Stapleton

Sports Medicine Podiatrist

Mr Stapleton's specialties include minor surgical procedures, sports injuries, MSK podiatry and Ultrasound imaging.

Mr Macfarlane

Andrew Macfarlane

Consultant Podiatric Surgeon

Mr Macfarlane's specialties include bunions, osteoarthritis of toe joints, joint implants, hammertoes, Morton's Neuroma, forefoot pain and more.

Book a foot orthoses consultation

It's easy to book online or by giving us a call.