Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis can cause discomfort in the feet and poor positioning that orthotics may help to correct. What conditions are orthotics used to treat?ĭoctors may prescribe orthotics to treat a number of medical conditions. This can help them identify areas of arthritis, damage, or injury.Ī doctor will take all of these diagnostic methods into account when making treatment recommendations, including to potentially prescribe orthotics. They may also recommend traditional imaging of your feet, such as X-ray, bone scan, or MRI. These images will show how and where your feet strike the ground and can help determine the exact location and type of problems in the structure and function of your feet. Some doctors may even have special imaging or pads where you walk. The doctor will likely ask you to walk and perform other activities to determine how the feet and ankles are positioned during certain exercises. They’ll look for deformities and areas that are especially painful. Your podiatrist will then conduct a physical exam of your feet. Questions may include when you first noticed the symptoms, what makes them worse, and what makes them better. You may see a podiatrist, a doctor who specializes in conditions of the feet, if you’re experiencing significant foot and heel pain. Your doctor will only recommend an orthotic if an off-the-shelf device or other treatments, such as exercises at home, haven’t proven effective. They’re highly customized shoe or heel inserts made for your feet. Orthotics are more than just a heel pad or shoe insert you can buy at most athletic stores. reducing the risks for further injuries.helping the foot or ankle function better.Some of the goals a doctor may have for orthotic treatment include:

Orthotics can be part of a comprehensive treatment plan to address various symptoms, usually having to do with pain and discomfort of the feet and legs.

Big toe and arch pain