Custom Orthotics / Bracing Specialist

What are custom orthotics?

An orthotic is a device that supports and improves functioning in your feet. The orthotics available at your local pharmacies, such as shoe inserts and toe pads, may provide temporary pain relief, but they can’t achieve the therapeutic effects of a prescription, custom-designed orthotic device.

Which foot conditions are treated with orthotics?

Dr. Boyuka can develop orthotics that relieve pain by reducing swelling and pressure. Orthotic devices can provide joint stability, improve balance, and correct bone alignment. Besides helping you return to pain-free everyday activities, orthotics can improve athletes' performance.

A few examples of foot problems treated with prescription orthotics include:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Bunions and hammertoes
• Arthritis
• Shin splints
• Heel pain
• Achilles tendonitis
• Diabetic ulcers and foot care
• Ankle instability

What are the different types of orthotics?

Dr. Boyuka uses a computerized analysis of your foot to develop customized orthotics that precisely fit your foot and the dynamics of your gait. A few examples of orthotics include shoe inserts, braces, gait plates, and night bars.

There are two basic types of orthotics:

Functional orthotics

These devices are designed to improve foot function by controlling excessive motion and correcting abnormal foot position. They provide stability and correct imbalances that occur when you walk, stand, or run.

Accommodative orthotics

Accommodative orthotics are used to cushion the foot, redistribute body weight, and relieve pressure from a painful or injured area.

What are ankle-foot braces?

When you have weakness, instability, or deformities in your ankle, Dr. Boyuka may prescribe an ankle-foot orthotic (AFO). AFOs are specially designed to control your ankle’s position and motion.

AFOs frequently take the form of a foot-drop brace that straps to your ankle and leg. Your foot-drop brace may stay in a fixed position, or have a joint that allows a specific amount of movement in your ankle.

Are sports orthotics available?

Although most orthotics are developed to treat a specific foot condition, you can also talk with Dr. Boyuka about orthotics that address movement problems that are particular to your sport. Sports orthotics may help prevent heel pain, Achilles tendonitis, shin splints, and runner’s knee.

When you experience foot pain, ankle instability, or you feel uncomfortable when you walk, call Southern Tier Podiatry or book an appointment online.