How to Purchase Orthotics

People who need orthotics suffer from foot pain. Foot pain is caused by conditions such as bunions, calluses, flatfoot, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis and diabetes. Orthotic devices treat the pain and correct an abnormal walking pattern. Orthotics are either purchased over-the-counter or are custom made for your foot. Purchasing the right orthotic depends primarily upon the severity of your foot or ankle problem.

Instructions

• 1

  Familiarize yourself with orthotic devices. The common types are wedge inserts, ankle-foot braces, heel cushions, shoes with a wide toe box and custom orthotics made from a foot mold. The type of orthotic devise you purchase is based on your diagnosed foot problem. For example, a wedge insert is best used if you have a flat foot whereas an ankle-foot brace helps relieve rheumatoid arthritis pain.

• 2

  Consult your physician. Describe your symptoms and any other problems such as leg, hip or back pain. Based her findings she will recommend an orthotic device or refer you to a podiatrist for further evaluation. A podiatrist is a doctor who specializes in treating foot, ankle and lower leg disorders.

• 3

  Get your prescription. If you're prescribed an over-the-counter (or OTC) orthotic device purchase it from your local drug store, pharmacy or sporting good store. OTC orthotics can be purchased for under $50. In severe foot problems she may prescribe a custom-made orthotic. Custom-made orthotics cost at least $300 and are purchased from your podiatrist.