Orthotics
When foot mechanics are contributing to pain in your feet, knees, hips or back, well-prescribed orthotics can make a real difference. Ours are custom, soft-fit and adjustable as you recover.
What are orthotics?
Orthotics are shoe inserts designed to modify the way your foot loads and moves. We prescribe custom soft-fit orthotics built to address the specific biomechanical problems identified in your assessment, rather than generic off-the-shelf arch supports. Soft-fit designs are comfortable from day one and suit everyday shoes as well as sports footwear.
Assessment comes first
Orthotics only help when they address a genuine mechanical problem, so we start with a thorough assessment of your foot posture, gait and lower limb mechanics, using video analysis where useful. Sometimes the answer is orthotics; sometimes it is footwear advice, strengthening or a combination. You get a recommendation based on what your assessment actually shows.
Adjustable as you recover
One advantage of our approach is that your orthotics can be customised and adjusted as your recovery progresses. As strength and mechanics improve through your rehab program, the level of support can be modified rather than locked in, keeping the orthotic matched to what your body currently needs.
Who they help
Orthotics can play a role in managing:
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Shin splints and some stress injuries
- Achilles tendon problems
- Knee pain related to foot mechanics
- Flat feet or very high arches causing symptoms
They are usually combined with an exercise program so the improvement lasts.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need orthotics or just better shoes?
Sometimes footwear changes alone are enough. Your assessment determines whether orthotics would genuinely address your problem, and we only recommend them when the mechanics support it.
Are soft orthotics as effective as hard ones?
For many conditions, well-prescribed soft-fit orthotics control foot mechanics effectively while being more comfortable and easier to wear consistently, which matters for results.
How long do orthotics take to get used to?
Most people adapt to soft-fit orthotics within days. We usually suggest building up wearing time gradually over the first week and adjusting them if anything feels wrong.