At Médecine podiatrique du Plateau in Gatineau, we offer custom foot orthotics to improve foot function, relieve pain and optimize posture. Here are the main types of foot orthotics and their specificities:
Functional orthotics
Functional orthotics aim to guide foot movements, including excessive pronation, to improve biomechanics.
- Materials: Made of rigid materials such as polypropylene or graphite, they offer excellent support.
- Molding: Neutral position molding techniques for optimal alignment.
- Indications: Recommended for plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis or knee pain related to foot imbalances.
Accommodative orthotics
These orthotics aim to reduce pressure on painful areas of the foot and provide comfortable cushioning for soft tissues.
- Materials: Polyethylene foam (Plastazote), felt or leather, for a softer effect.
- Molding: Impressions taken with full ou partial weight-bearing feet to reflect the shape of the foot under the effect of weight.
- Indications: Ideal for treating arthritis, calluses.
Considerations for Foot Orthotics
- Choice of material: The choice of material depends on your treatment goals, foot type, and preferences. A rigid material provides motion control, while a soft material provides increased cushioning.
- Casting technique: The casting technique can influence the form and function of the orthotic. Neutral position castings are preferred for functional orthotics, while weight-bearing castings can be used for accommodative orthotics.
- Customization: Questions of comfort and use, which your podiatrist will try to understand in order to offer you the most suitable orthosis, will dictate certain choices of materials. Depending on the evaluation made, your podiatrist will be able to make various additions to the orthotic, whether it is metatarsal pads, heel pads, front and rear postings, lateral bars, rigid or soft extensions and many others.
Why get an assessment by a podiatrist in Gatineau?
For optimal relief and suitable foot orthotics, a complete podiatric assessment is essential. It includes an in-depth gait analysis with pressure mats and cameras on our instrumented walking path. The podiatrist establishes a customized treatment plan that improves biomechanical function and quality of life.
