Orthotics

If you struggle with foot pain, relief may be as simple as custom orthotics. At Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC, Joel Segalman, DPM, FACFAS, FACFAO, and Stephen Lazaroff, DPM, FACFAS, are experts in creating customized orthotics that ease pain, promote healing, correct abnormal movement, and improve sports performance. Call the office in Waterbury or Newtown, Connecticut, today, or book an appointment online to learn if orthotics are the solution for your foot problem.

What are orthotics?

Orthotics are inserts that go inside your shoes, where they cushion and support your feet, ease pain, and treat your unique foot problems.

You can purchase basic orthotics over-the-counter, but their one-size-fits-all approach makes them less effective than customized orthotics. Your personalized orthotics are designed to fit your feet and provide the specific therapeutic benefits you need.

Orthotics come in two basic types:

Rigid orthotics

Rigid (functional) orthotics are made of hard plastics. These materials correct movement and treat injuries.

Soft orthotics

Soft (accommodative) orthotics consist of spongy or padded materials that ease pain and reduce pressure on sores and abnormalities like bunions.

When would I need orthotics?

Orthotics can ease pain in any part of your foot and ankle. They also treat foot problems, such as:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Hammertoes
• Bunions
• Tendonitis
• Diabetic foot ulcers
• Sprained ankles
• Heel pain
• Bursitis
• Calluses
• Flat feet
• Arthritis

When you have foot pain or a foot condition, you change the way you walk to ease your symptoms. Favoring your feet changes the natural alignment between your feet, legs, hips, and spine, causing pain throughout your musculoskeletal system. Orthotics that correct the foot problem and relieve pain in the other areas as well.

How do orthotics help my feet?

When Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC, creates your orthotics, they design the inserts to correct your foot or ankle problem, improve foot function, and enhance movement.

In addition to reducing pain, orthotics can:

• Correct imbalances
• Absorb shock
• Relieve pressure points
• Eliminate strain
• Provide stability
• Improve gait biomechanics
• Control foot and ankle movement
• Align your foot and ankle
• Prevent or correct deformities

Since these issues affect overall movement, orthotics that target your specific challenges can also improve your sports performance.

What happens when I get orthotics?

Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC begins by diagnosing your foot problem and assessing your gait, balance, and movement. After they determine you need orthotics, they create a mold or image of your foot.

Your provider sends the image along with instructions for your orthotic design to the lab that produces the inserts. When they’re ready, your provider makes sure they’re the perfect fit.

To learn if orthotics can improve your foot problems, call Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC, or book an appointment online today.