How we can help you...
Foot orthotics are supportive and corrective devices worn in your shoes. They are designed to apply direct forces to certain aspects of the foot to improve postural stability, decrease certain tissue stresses and improve foot and lower limb function.
Almost anyone can benefit from orthotics. Orthotics can alleviate many common foot problems that cause pain and discomfort in otherwise healthy people.
Orthotics can help in situations of:
Heel pain (plantar fasciitis)
Flat feet
High-arched foot structure
Bunions
Callus and corn formation
Achilles tendonosis
Knee pain (patellofemoral syndrome)
Frequent ankle sprains
Gait abnormalities (feet point inward or excessively outward during walking)
Shin pain (shin splints)
Some hip and low back pains (particularly those worse with long periods of walking or standing)
Prompt action is necessary. The longer a problem is left without assessment and treatment the harder it can be to resolve. Orthotics can be made from many different materials depending on the individual’s activity levels and foot condition.
how are orthoses prescribed?
When prescribing orthoses, the podiatrists at The Hunter Foot Clinic provide a comprehensive service to ensure safe and effective foot care, including:
A full clinical assessment of your foot problem prior to prescription.
Prescription of orthoses tailored to individual needs.
Provision of any additional treatment required.
Advice regarding exercises, footwear and training methods where relevant.
Complete control over prescribing, making and fitting your orthoses.
Comprehensive follow up, including initial and ongoing treatment plans.
Fine-tuning or correction of any problems experienced when wearing orthoses.
custom made orthoses
These are the most effective type of orthotics as they are crafted to meet the specific needs of an individual. They are designed to guide the mechanics of the foot to a precise degree to help support joints, muscles and tendons so they can perform more efficiently.
At The Hunter Foot Clinic we use modern techniques to make our custom orthotics. Firstly, we will conduct a gait assessment to assess your foot biomechanics and the best orthotic for you. Foot scanning is done using a 3D camera and our orthotics are then manufactured in a state of the art facility to ensure optimum quality and accuracy.
We will discuss footwear and the specific needs and requirements to fit your orthotics and ensure that they are effective. Please bring your current footwear to any assessment for orthotics so we can assess their suitability. Please also bring shorts and a t-shirt can we can conduct a thorough gait (walking or running) assessment.
If you have private health insurance it is advisable to check your level of cover for orthotic inserts before attending an appointment. We are able to process and claim on the spot any rebate from your insurer using our HICAPS terminal.
OTHER orthoses
We offer cheaper options of either pre cast or prefabricated orthotics. These can also be useful for temporary needs or for growing children or where budget does not allow for a custom made orthotics.