Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Orthotics
posted: May 13, 2024.
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Take a moment to consider how much the average person relies on their feet. Day in and day out, feet take us where we need to go. It’s important to safeguard your feet, ankles, and legs. Fortunately, orthotic shoe inserts can be used to address a plethora of challenges and conditions. That said, you might be wondering whether you should get custom or over-the-counter (OTC) orthotics. We’ll cover that in this article. However, if you need help with orthotics in Waldorf, Clinton, or California, MD, please reach out to Dr. Justin Pointer, Dr. Nishani Kuruppu, or Dr. Tomika Coleman.
The Basics of Orthotics
Orthotics are special shoe inserts designed to address issues with the feet, ankles, and legs. They can also be used to improve your overall posture and may help address problems with your gait or form while walking. Orthotics may be designed to address relatively serious foot issues, like flat feet, or they can be designed to provide extra comfort.
You can go to some stores and buy OTC orthotics. These devices are typically designed to address small issues or provide a bit of extra comfort. They are designed to work with as many feet as possible, but in practice, by becoming a jack of all trades, they end up being an expert of none. Still, OTC orthotics may relieve mild pain and provide better support than what your shoes currently offer.
If you need help selecting orthotics in Waldorf, Clinton, or California, MD, please reach out to Dr. Pointer, Dr. Kuruppu, or Dr. Coleman.
What Makes Custom Orthotics Stand Out
Quite simply, custom orthotics are much better at addressing medical issues. If you regularly experience bunions, have plantar fasciitis, or are suffering from knee, foot, heel, or ankle pain, the right orthotics may provide relief. Further, people who suffer from diabetes are often prone to severe issues with their feet, but orthotics can be used to manage foot issues and reduce risks. Custom orthotics can also help with flat feet or high arches.
Crucially, custom orthotics are designed specifically for your feet. This means they can provide much better support and are more effective overall. In terms of resolving conditions, OTC orthotics often fall short. At best, they often only provide some temporary relief. Custom orthotics, on the other hand, may provide lasting relief and may be able to help you resolve your issues. This could greatly improve your well-being and quality of life.
Custom orthotics also tend to last longer and are typically more comfortable. If you’re looking for custom orthotics in Waldorf, Clinton, or California, MD, come see Dr. Pointer, Dr. Kuruppu, or Dr. Coleman.
You can contact us at:
Waldorf Office- (301)-843-9581
Clinton Office- (301)-868-3899
California Office- (301)-690-6044