In general terms, there are three different styles of orthotic inserts to consider when you are thinking of making a crucial decision for your feet. Each of these has different features, and are used depending on your particular situation.:

1) Custom-made (rigid) arch supports: These orthotics are for patients with severe biomechanical disorders which are more severe than the common degree of excessive pronation that many of us suffer from. Custom-made, rigid orthotic inserts must be prescribed by a podiatrist. For example, some people deal with ‘supination’, which is the opposite to pronation. Their feet roll to the outside or ‘supinate’, and the arch stays high and firm when hitting the ground. This condition is known as a cavus foot or high-arched foot, and only affects 5 percent of people. Supinators will call for a custom-made orthotic that corrects this type of problem. Additionally, people with very large bunions, foot ulcers, foot deformities or entirely flat feet should see a podiatrist. After preliminary diagnosis of flat feet, or any of the before mentioned ailments, the podiatrist will determine the right custom-made prescription orthotic. Next, a negative-impression plaster cast of the patient’s foot is prepared, and this cast is then delivered to an a specialized orthotic manufacturing lab. Using this cast, a positive cast is formed by pouring plaster into the negative mold. The result is a precise reproduction of the underside of the foot. From this sample, the orthotic technician (orthotist) will produce a custom-made orthotic, making the appropriate adjustments, as ordered by the podiatrist. The result is a rigid (or semi-rigid) orthotic device. Even though these devices are biomechanically correct, many patients find it extremely difficult adapting to them.

2) Heat-moldable arch supports: Heat-moldable arch supports are a less expensive option to the costly custom-made arch supports, which usually cost up to $600 per pair. They are a standard, off-the-shelf, pliable product made of medium-firm density E.V.A. material. The product then can be heated up to slightly alter its shape. At times wedges are added for a more customized result. Heat-moldable insoles cost around $100 to $140 and are to a large extent easier to get used to than custom-made rigid orthotics.

3) Prefabricated Orthotics: Prefabricated arch supports are a soft-medium density insole, offered at , online from specialist e-commerce sites, and also from some physiotherapists and chiropractors. Patients will get used to these orthotics almost right away, and the cost ranges from $30 to $50 per pair. Research has shown that for 80 percent of people afflicted with over-pronation, a prefabricated arch support will give appropriate correction of wearing them, these types of orthotics will mold to the wearer’s foot shape, because of their body weight and body heat. The majority of off-the-shelf orthotic inserts are made of EVA, a bendable but firm material that supports the foot without harming the arches. Children and the elderly will in particular benefit from a less rigid type of orthotic, since they are less tolerant of anything stiff below their feet.

It is always a intelligent choice to get the advice of a physician when you are making this type of decision. You want to be sure you are making the right selection for your particular problem.

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