FAQs About Orthotics

The feet endure a lot of stress just from walking about daily. Running and other forms of exercise can put even more strain on the feet. Orthotics can protect the feet from so much stress and strain by providing additional cushioning, stability, and support. We offer custom orthotics at our office in Westbury, where our knowledgeable podiatrist, Dr. Dennis Fassman, can recommend a specific type of orthotic to meet your needs.

What are Orthotics?

Orthotics are also called orthoses and are inserts placed inside the shoes to align the feet. Proper alignment can reduce strain on the feet, legs, hips, and lower back. In addition to positioning the feet correctly, orthotics also provide additional cushioning, stability, and arch support. Custom orthotics are the most effective since they are tailored to perfectly fit your unique foot structure.

How do Orthotics Help?

Orthotics help in several ways. They improve alignment in the feet and lower extremities and they alleviate pain and discomfort in the feet, legs, and lower back. Orthotics also provide more arch support, better stability and balance, and additional cushioning. Orthotics that can be purchased over-the-counter are actually just arch supports. Custom orthotics are best for addressing your specific foot issues since they are made specifically for you.

Are There Different Types of Orthotics?

We have several types of custom orthotics at our office in Westbury. Our skilled podiatrist can recommend the right one for you based on your specific foot concerns. The three types of custom orthotics we have include:

• Semi-Rigid Orthotics — Semi-rigid custom orthotics help improve balance and provide stability by correcting foot positioning and alignment. These orthotics help athletes and patients with flat feet who need extra arch support.
• Rigid Orthotics — Rigid custom orthotics help alleviate pain in the feet, legs, and lower back by correcting foot positioning when walking. These orthotics are ideal for patients with pain in the legs or lower back due to an irregular walking pattern.
• Soft Orthotics — Soft custom orthotics alleviate pressure on the balls of the feet and provide shock absorption, cushioning, and support. These orthotics can be helpful for patients with arthritis in the feet and ankles, as well as patients with diabetes-related foot problems or deformities in the foot structure.

Custom orthotics can provide relief from foot, leg, or lower back pain due to flat arches, an irregular step pattern, or other issues. Dr. Fassman can fit you for the right type of custom orthotic for your needs. To learn more about custom orthotics, call our office in Westbury at (516) 333-5566.