Has anyone on here ever had custom made orthotics before? If so how did they work out?

Question

I asked in the pain management section, and couldn't get any answers, so I thought I'd try here.

Answer 1

Orthotics come in several types. If they are rigid and cover the full foot, I find them uncomfortable.

I have worn custom cast BIrkenstocks for a good many years. They are basically like an orthotic. Here is my objection to orthotics. They are molded from your foot and they hold the foot in the same position it is in when it is hurting.

It is very helpful to have shoes that allow the foot to get feedback from the walking surface. Uneven terrain causes the foot and the brain to work together and it will change the gait, which can be very healthy. On the other hand I believe and so do many others, for example some physical therapists from south africa, practitioners of the Feldenkrais method and some researchers on walking injuries -- that it is much safer to feel where you are walking.

So if I were to wear orthotics I would also not wear them and wear a variety of shoes. Injuries are said to be more frequent with excessively padded shoes where the foot does not feel where it is in regard to the ground.

My opinion is not the mainstream medical practice. I am not a medical person but one with experience and some knowledge from classes and various practitioners.

Answer 2

My partner has.

They are great and have made a LOT of difference, all in a positive way ~ less tiredness of legs, hips not sore at the end of the day and fewer days of back pain.

Not all shoe types are suitable, however.

Cheers :-)

Answer 3

The key is to find the right person to custom make it for you. If you have a good relationship with the individual or company that custom makes them, and if they are very good, they can be very helpful.  If one of those is not true, it may be a nagging, painful problem.  

We've had to go back a few times to get them to tweak it.  Each time, they listened carefully and patiently made the adjustment.  It is seldom right the first time.  Also, over time, adjustments are common.

Answer 4

My husband is flat-footed and has a pair, which he switches between shoes. They cost him about $250. If he doesn't wear them, he starts to feel pain in his feet and his lower back.

Answer 5

What are they?