Orthotics and inserts each are effective in treating foot and ankle conditions such as neuroma, and plantar fasciitis. While the two terms are used interchangeably, they are different! What makes an orthotic different than an insert?
A lot of inserts are marketed as orthotics. They may look like an orthotic; have a plastic shell, deep heel cup, nice top cover, and metatarsal pad, but they are not. Inserts are mass-produced, purchased at a drugstore, sporting goods store, or online retailer. A true orthotic is a prescription device, custom made from a direct impression of the patient’s foot. We think of inserts as a short-term solution for new acute problems and custom molded orthotics as an investment in your overall health providing structural support.
Some folks do fantastic with well-made inserts for a new problem like heel pain. In fact, when appropriate we recommend and dispense them in our office to support the arch and provide shock absorption. Often folks will come into the office with foot pain having already purchased an over-the-counter insert. The downside to purchasing at the pharmacy is a lack of guidance on which insert is appropriate, the quality, how to wear them, and shoe choice. Some patients are not aware that the sock liner comes out of their shoe to accommodate the insert making the shoe snug. Purchasing an insert online may seem like a better option with consumer reviews but with so many different options all claiming to be the best it is hard to know which one to choose.
A custom-molded orthotic is a better option if you are experiencing pain consistently over a prolonged period or have a deformity like bunions, recurrent heel pain, or flat feet. Feet are subtly different from each other; flatter, longer, different joint range of motion. The subtle differences can be captured in the impression improving outcomes. Custom molded orthotics last longer; 3-5 years whereas inserts last 6-9 months. In the past, the impression was sent to a lab and the patient had to wait weeks to receive the orthotics. At Lighthouse Foot and Ankle we are now able to cast, mold and dispense a custom orthotic on the same day! Significantly reducing the time to feeling better.
If you would like to know if an insert or custom-molded orthotics would work for you, please call Michele Kurlanski, DPM at Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Kurlanski offers expert and professional podiatry services in Cumberland County, Maine. Please call us today at 207-774-0028 to schedule your appointment in our Scarborough office.