Custom Orthotics in Garland TX & Wylie TX

The most effective and simplest way to correct these painful foot conditions is with a custom orthotic. Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic offers custom orthotics in Garland, TX and Wylie, TX.

Just as prescription eyeglasses correct your vision, custom orthotics are inserts that fit into your shoes, that are custom molded to correct your faulty biomechanics. This reduces abnormal motion while you walk or run, and equally disperses pressure on the bottom of your feet.

Many of our patients not only receive relief from their foot pain, but also gain relief from their knee, hip and back pain. So, if you’re suffering with foot pain, come in for an evaluation to determine  if you are a candidate for custom orthotics.

Call Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic today at (972) 414-9800 or click to schedule a podiatrist appointment! Be sure to read our many reviews online!

Custom Foot Support Designed Around You

Foot pain does not always begin with an injury. Sometimes, the way your feet absorb pressure, support your body or move while you walk and run contributes to recurring discomfort.

In those cases, custom orthotics may become part of the treatment plan.

At Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic, our podiatrists evaluate patients for custom foot orthotics at both of our North Texas locations. Scott Nelson, DPM sees patients at our Garland, TX office, while Hang Nguyen, DPM provides podiatric care at our Wylie, TX location.

Custom orthotics are prescription devices made specifically for an individual’s feet and treatment needs. Depending on the condition, an orthotic may help support the foot, redistribute pressure, reduce stress on painful tissues or influence how the foot functions inside the shoe.

However, not every patient with foot pain needs a custom orthotic. Therefore, Dr. Nelson and Dr. Nguyen begin with an examination to determine what is causing the problem and whether an orthotic makes sense for you.

If recurring foot pain is making it harder to walk, work, exercise or stay active, call (972) 414-9800 or request an appointment with Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are prescription inserts designed to fit inside your shoes.

Unlike a general cushioning insert purchased at a pharmacy or sporting goods store, a custom orthotic is created based on an evaluation of your individual feet, symptoms and mechanics.

Depending on your needs, a custom orthotic may help:

• Support specific areas of the foot
• Redistribute pressure
• Reduce stress on painful tissues
• Improve comfort while walking or standing
• Accommodate areas that are sensitive or painful
• Influence excessive or unwanted foot motion
• Improve support during work, exercise or sports

Most importantly, an orthotic should address a specific problem identified during your examination.

In other words, the goal is not simply to put a harder or more expensive insert into your shoe. Instead, your podiatrist determines what type of support or pressure relief may help your particular condition.

What Conditions Can Custom Orthotics Help?

Research suggests foot orthoses can reduce the risk of certain lower-extremity injuries in runners and other active populations, including stress fractures in appropriate patients. In a study by the British Journal of Sports Medicine (“Effectiveness of foot orthoses and shock-absorbing insoles for the prevention of injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” – Bonanno DR et al. 2017) in which eleven trials of foot orthoses were included, the following was found that Orthoses were associated with the following:

• 28% reduction in overall injuries, RR 0.72
• 41% reduction in stress fractures, RR 0.59

Podiatrists may recommend custom orthotics as part of treatment for several foot and ankle problems. Injury prevention; Orthotics; Overuse injury; Sporting injuries.

These can include:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Recurring heel pain
• Certain types of arch pain
• Symptomatic flat feet
• High arches
• Excessive pressure beneath particular areas of the foot
• Some tendon problems
• Certain sports-related foot problems
• Recurring areas of callus caused by pressure
• Some biomechanical problems affecting walking or running

However, orthotics do not cure every foot condition.

For example, an orthotic may reduce pressure associated with a bunion or hammertoe, but it will not physically straighten a structural deformity. Likewise, orthotics may help some patients with plantar fasciitis, but they often work best as one part of a broader treatment plan that may also include stretching, footwear changes and activity modification.

That is why an accurate diagnosis comes first.

Custom Orthotics for Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain is one of the most common reasons patients ask about orthotics.

For some people with plantar fasciitis, the way pressure moves through the foot may contribute to repeated strain on the plantar fascia.

In those cases, an orthotic may help support the foot and redistribute pressure while irritated tissues recover.

However, orthotics usually represent only one possible part of treatment.

Your podiatrist may also recommend:

• Stretching
• Supportive shoes
• Temporary activity changes
• Other forms of conservative treatment

Learn more about heel pain and plantar fasciitis on our Heel Pain Treatment page.

Custom Orthotics for Flat Feet

Flat feet do not automatically require treatment.

Many adults and children have relatively low arches without experiencing pain or functional problems.

However, when a flatfoot condition causes pain, fatigue, tendon strain or difficulty with certain activities, additional support may help.

A custom orthotic cannot simply create a new permanent arch. Instead, the device may help support the foot and influence how pressure moves through it while you stand and walk.

This distinction becomes particularly important for children.

Painless flexible flat feet are common during childhood, and children do not automatically need orthotics simply because their arches appear low.

If you have concerns about your child’s feet or walking pattern, visit our Pediatric Podiatry page for additional information.

Custom Orthotics for High Arches

Patients with high arches can also experience foot pain.

A high-arched foot may place greater pressure under certain areas of the heel and forefoot. Additionally, some people with high arches have difficulty absorbing impact comfortably.

In selected patients, an orthotic insert can help redistribute pressure and provide additional support or cushioning where the foot needs it most.

Again, the shape of the arch alone does not determine whether you need an orthotic. Your symptoms and examination findings matter more.

Sports Orthotics for Runners & Active Patients

Runners and athletes repeatedly place significant forces through their feet.

Consequently, relatively small problems with pressure or mechanics may become more noticeable during high-impact or repetitive activity.

A custom orthotic may help selected athletes who experience:

• Recurring heel pain
• Arch pain
• Certain overuse injuries
• Forefoot pressure
• Repeated discomfort associated with foot mechanics

However, an orthotic cannot compensate for every training problem.

For example, rapidly increasing running mileage, wearing worn-out shoes or returning to activity too quickly after an injury may continue to cause problems even with an orthotic.

Therefore, Dr. Nelson or Dr. Nguyen may also consider training habits, footwear and the specific activity that triggers your symptoms.

Learn more about athletic foot and ankle care through our Sports Medicine services.

Custom Orthotics vs. Over-the-Counter Shoe Inserts

Patients often ask whether they really need custom orthotics or whether an over-the-counter insert will work just as well.

The answer depends on the problem.

Over-the-counter inserts can provide cushioning and general support. In fact, some patients do very well with them.

Custom orthotics become more useful when the podiatrist wants to address an individual’s specific foot structure, pressure pattern or treatment need.

Over-the-counter inserts generally:

• Come in standard sizes
• Provide general cushioning or arch support
• Cost less
• May work well for mild or temporary symptoms

Custom orthotics:

• Are prescribed after a foot evaluation
• Are made for the individual patient
• Can provide support or accommodation in specific areas
• Can address particular pressure or biomechanical concerns
• May be modified based on the patient’s condition

Therefore, custom does not automatically mean that every patient needs one.

At Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic, our goal is to recommend a custom orthotic when your examination suggests that individualized support could provide a meaningful benefit.

How Do I Know If I Need Custom Orthotics?

You may want to ask a podiatrist about orthotics if you experience:

• Recurring foot pain
• Persistent heel pain
• Arch pain
• Pain that returns during walking or exercise
• Areas of repeated pressure or callus
• Foot fatigue during prolonged standing
• Symptoms related to a painful flatfoot condition
• Difficulty finding comfortable shoe inserts
• A foot problem that has not improved with simple footwear changes

However, foot pain has many possible causes.

Therefore, buying an orthotic before determining why your foot hurts can result in treating the wrong problem.

A podiatric examination can help identify whether the pain comes from the plantar fascia, a tendon, a joint, a bone, a nerve or another structure.

What Happens During a Custom Orthotics Evaluation?

Your appointment begins with a discussion of your symptoms.

Dr. Nelson or Dr. Nguyen may ask:

• Where does your foot hurt?
• When does the pain occur?
• What activities make it worse?
• How long have you had the problem?
• What shoes do you normally wear?
• Have you already tried shoe inserts?
• Do you participate in running or sports?
• Does your job require prolonged standing or walking?

Next, your podiatrist will examine your feet.

Depending on your symptoms, the evaluation may include:

• Foot and arch structure
• Areas of tenderness
• Range of motion
• Tendon flexibility
• Pressure areas
• Calluses
• Shoe wear patterns
• Standing alignment
• Walking or gait

If your podiatrist believes a custom orthotic would help, the clinic can then obtain the measurements, impressions or other information necessary to create the prescription device.

Once the orthotics are ready, proper fit matters.

Your podiatrist can explain how to introduce them gradually and what type of shoes work best with them.

Do Custom Orthotics Need a Break-In Period?

Often, yes.

A new orthotic changes the way support or pressure feels beneath your foot. Therefore, your feet may need time to adjust.

Your podiatrist may recommend wearing the devices for shorter periods initially and gradually increasing wear time.

However, significant pain, persistent rubbing, blisters or new symptoms are not something you should simply “push through.”

If an orthotic feels wrong, contact the office so the fit can be evaluated.

What Shoes Work Best With Custom Orthotics?

The best shoe depends partly on your orthotic and the activities you perform.

In general, orthotics tend to work best in shoes that:

• Fit properly
• Provide enough room for the device
• Hold the heel securely
• Offer adequate depth
• Have a stable sole
• Allow the orthotic to sit flat inside the shoe

Shoes with removable factory insoles often provide additional room for a custom device.

Bring the shoes you wear most frequently when discussing orthotics with your podiatrist. This helps ensure that your treatment plan fits your real life rather than only working with one pair of shoes you rarely wear.

Can Custom Orthotics Help Knee, Hip or Back Pain?

Patients sometimes notice symptoms farther up the leg while also experiencing foot problems.

Because the feet form the base for standing and walking, changes in foot mechanics can influence movement elsewhere in the lower extremity.

However, knee, hip and back pain have many possible causes. Therefore, we would not assume that foot orthotics will resolve pain in another part of the body.

If your examination suggests that foot mechanics may contribute to your symptoms, your podiatrist can explain whether an orthotic is worth considering. In other cases, evaluation by another healthcare professional may be more appropriate.

This more targeted approach helps avoid treating every musculoskeletal complaint as though it begins in the feet.

Are Custom Orthotics Permanent?

Custom orthotics can last for years, but they do not last forever.

Their lifespan depends on:

• The materials used
• Your body weight
• How frequently you wear them
• Your activity level
• The type of shoes you use
• Changes in your feet or medical condition

Over time, materials can wear down and your treatment needs may change.

Therefore, if an older pair no longer feels comfortable or your symptoms return, bring the orthotics to your appointment so your podiatrist can evaluate them.

Custom Orthotics in Garland, TX

Patients looking for custom orthotics in Garland, Texas can schedule an evaluation with Scott Nelson, DPM at Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic.

Dr. Nelson treats a wide variety of foot and ankle problems and can determine whether custom orthotics should become part of your treatment plan.

Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic of Garland
3930 Naaman School Road, Suite C
Garland, TX 75040
(972) 414-9800

Our Garland office is conveniently located near President George Bush Turnpike and the Firewheel area.

Visit our Garland podiatry office page for directions and additional information.

Custom Orthotics in Wylie, TX

Patients looking for custom orthotics in Wylie, Texas can see Hang Nguyen, DPM at Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic.

Dr. Nguyen evaluates foot structure, pain, activity demands and other factors before deciding whether a prescription orthotic makes sense for the individual patient.

Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic of Wylie
2300 FM 544, Suite 230
Wylie, TX 75098
(972) 414-9800

Our Wylie office is located on FM 544 near Wylie High School.

Visit our Wylie podiatry office page for directions and additional office information.

Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Orthotics

What are custom orthotics?

Custom orthotics are prescription devices designed to fit inside shoes and provide individualized support, pressure redistribution or control based on a patient’s foot examination and treatment needs.

Are custom orthotics better than store-bought inserts?

Not for everyone. Over-the-counter inserts can work well for some patients. Custom orthotics may be more appropriate when a specific condition, pressure pattern or biomechanical problem requires individualized support.

Can custom orthotics help plantar fasciitis?

They can help some patients with plantar fasciitis, particularly when additional support or pressure redistribution is appropriate. However, treatment may also include stretching, footwear changes and activity modification.

Will custom orthotics fix flat feet?

Orthotics do not permanently create a new arch. However, they may provide useful support and reduce symptoms in some patients with painful or symptomatic flat feet.

Do children with flat feet need custom orthotics?

Not automatically. Painless flexible flat feet are common in children and usually do not require orthotics. A podiatrist may consider orthotics when a child’s foot structure contributes to pain or another functional problem. For more information on Pediatric Podiatry / Children’s Podiatrists / foot doctors for kids, click here.

Can I run or play sports in custom orthotics?

Many active patients wear orthotics during sports. However, the device and footwear should match the activity and the reason the orthotic was prescribed.

How long do custom orthotics last?

The lifespan varies based on materials, frequency of use, activity and changes in the patient’s feet. Periodic evaluation can help determine whether an older pair still fits and functions appropriately.

Does insurance cover custom orthotics?

Coverage varies considerably by insurance plan and medical indication. Contact Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic and your insurance provider for information about your specific benefits before ordering prescription orthotics.

Find Out Whether Custom Orthotics Are Right for You

You do not need to decide on your own whether you need prescription orthotics.

Instead, start by finding out why your feet hurt.

At Foot & Ankle Medical Clinic, Scott Nelson, DPM evaluates patients for custom orthotics at our Garland office, while Hang Nguyen, DPM provides custom orthotic evaluations at our Wylie location.

If individualized foot support could help your condition, our podiatrists can explain why they recommend it and how it fits into your overall treatment plan.

Call (972) 414-9800 or request an appointment today.