Orthotics 101

An orthosis is a device used by podiatrists to correct an abnormality in a patient's gait, or provide additional cushion and control for a surgically corrected condition. Orthotics can be made out of a variety of different materials, and many times are made by a podiatrist in office. The materials chosen for fabrication of the device are generally contingent upon the condition being treated and cost effectiveness. Orthotics are often times one of a podiatrists favorite tools as it allows them to treat an extremely broad variety of foot-related ailments with a minimally invasive technique. Once the orthosis is made it can simply be placed into the patients shoe similarly as an insole would be.     

Most insurance companies will cover the cost of an orthotic and they’re often times the best treatment for patients. Especially patients who can’t afford to spend time off their feet with any kind of surgical recovery. Some conditions that are commonly treated with an orthotic, but certainly not limited to are bunions, tailors bunions, hallux limitus and rigidus, ankle equinus, plantar fasciitis, digital subluxations, Morton’s Neuroma, high arched feet/Pes Cavus, Diabetes related conditions, and many more. 

If you have any kind of foot related pain, or think you might be a candidate for an orthotic, don’t hesitate to call one of Dr. Michael Garvin’s offices in the Port Saint Lucie area in southeast Florida. 772-335-7171  Dr. Garvin has been practicing for years and has spent this time perfecting the art of healing and controlling patients foot problems with orthoses.