Custom-made Foot Orthotics
There are many different styles of foot orthotics.
Orthotics may be purchased "off-the-shelf" meaning they are of a
general design for the general general population. Orthotics
of this nature are often fairly inexpensive and do not require a
prescription. Custom orthotics are "casted" to your individual
foot by qualified health care providers and often are a bit more
expensive.
"But I bought orthotics off the shelf in my local athletic
store...how are custom made foot orthotics different?" Store
bought orthotic insoles may often be helpful. Off-the-shelf
orthotics are generic in size, fit, and contour. Custom made orthotics
are made specifically for your feet and are de
signed
to meet individual needs.
"But I was measured on a machine at the shoe store that
showed the salesperson which orthotics were best for my feet..."
True. If you were measured on a computerized machine, the
read-out most likely demonstrated a map of your foot size and weight
distribution. However, the orthotics recommended are still
generic in nature and based on the closest estimate to your size and
perceived walking pattern.