Custom Orthotics

Consider custom orthotics if you experience heel, foot, or ankle pain and it doesn’t improve with activity modification, rest, or ice. At Southwest Foot & Ankle Center, double board-certified podiatrist Petrina Lewis, DPM, FACFAS, uses 3D-printed custom orthotics to realign the feet and ankles, reducing pain and encouraging mobility. To make an appointment, call the office in Scottsdale, Arizona, or book online today.

What are custom orthotics?

Custom orthotics are 3D-printed inserts specifically designed to support your feet and ankles. They’re made of durable materials that keep your feet and ankles in alignment while walking or exercising.

Custom orthotics are much more effective than the inserts or heel pads you can buy at the pharmacy. To ensure they fit perfectly, Dr. Lewis takes digital scans of your feet, capturing thousands of data points. Then, she uploads your scans to a 3D printer, which manufactures the orthotics in real time.

What types of issues can custom orthotics treat?

At Southwest Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. Lewis uses custom orthotics to treat various issues, including:

• Arthritis
• Bunions
• Bursitis
• Diabetes
• Flat feet
• Hammertoes
• Heel spurs
• High arches
• Heel pain
• Plantar fasciitis

You might also benefit from custom orthotics if you run or play sports and experience an activity-related injury.

What are the types of custom orthotics?

At Southwest Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. Lewis offers several kinds of orthotics, including:

Rigid orthotics

Rigid orthotics are thin and inflexible. They fit inside close-toed shoes and relieve pain in the arches or balls of your feet. Rigid orthotics can also relieve back, leg, or thigh pain caused by an unusual gait or structural abnormalities.

Accommodative orthotics

Accommodative orthotics are bulky and made from thick, padded materials. They take pressure off of open wounds, like diabetic ulcers, blisters, or sores. 

What does getting custom orthotics involve?

Dr. Lewis offers 3D-printed custom orthotics at Southwest Foot & Ankle Center.

If Dr. Lewis determines that you can benefit from orthotics, she takes digital scans of your feet, capturing thousands of data points. Dr. Lewis uploads your scans to a computer-aided design (CAD) program and creates a lightweight orthotic that optimizes function in each part of your foot.

After finalizing the design, Dr. Lewis transfers it to a 3D printer, which creates your custom orthotics. When the machine finishes, Dr. Lewis has you try your orthotics on and makes adjustments, ensuring a perfect fit.

How long do custom orthotics last?

Custom orthotics typically last 1-3 years, but they may last longer depending on your gait, favorite activities, and how often you wear them. If you notice your orthotics starting to wear down, contact Dr. Lewis immediately.

To see if you can benefit from custom orthotics, make an appointment at Southwest Foot & Ankle Center by calling the office or booking online today.