What is the difference between Custom Orthotics and Pre-Fabricated Orthotics?

Custom orthotics are made specifically for an individual based on a mold or impression of their feet. This process usually involves taking a cast or scan of the feet, which is then used to create a 3D model of the feet. From this model, a custom orthotic device is fabricated to fit the unique shape and contours of the individual’s feet. Custom orthotics are often made from materials such as 3D-printed nylon, foam, or plastic, and are designed to provide support and alignment to the feet in specific areas. Pre-fabricated orthotics, on the other hand, are mass-produced and are not customized to the individual’s feet. They are generally made from off-the-shelf materials and are designed to fit a range of foot sizes and shapes. Pre-fabricated orthotics are typically less expensive than custom orthotics, and are often available over-the-counter at pharmacies or sporting goods stores.

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The difference between Custom orthotics and Pre-fabricated orthotics includes:

1. One of the main differences is the level of customization. Custom orthotics are tailored to the specific needs and requirements of the individual, while pre-fabricated orthotics are designed to fit a range of foot types and sizes. As a result, custom orthotics may be more effective at providing support and alignment to the feet, as they are designed to fit the unique contours and shape of the feet.

2. Another key difference is the material used to make the orthotics. Custom orthotics are often made from higher-quality materials, which are more durable and long-lasting. Pre-fabricated orthotics, on the other hand, are often made from cheaper, lower-quality materials, such as plastic or rubber, which may not be as durable or comfortable.

3. In terms of effectiveness, custom orthotics are generally considered to be more effective at providing support and relief from foot pain or discomfort. This is because they are tailored to the individual’s specific needs and are designed to address specific issues or problems with the feet. Pre-fabricated orthotics, on the other hand, may not be as effective, as they are not customized to the individual’s feet and may not provide the necessary support or alignment.

4. Pre-fabricated are generally less expensive than custom orthotics, which can make them a more accessible option for some people. However, the lower cost of pre-fabricated orthotics may also mean that they are made from lower-quality materials and are not as effective at providing support and relief from foot pain or as durable. On the other hand, custom orthotics can seem like a luxury item for some but it will provide more benefits to you that can have a big impact on your life. 

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Benefits of Custom Made Orthotics

Your body is like one long kinetic chain of motion that starts with your feet. If any of the joints, bones, tendons, ligaments, or muscles in your feet aren’t in their optimal functional position, the resulting pain, discomfort, and fatigue can travel up the kinetic chain and affect other areas of your body. 

Wearing custom orthotics that address your functional and biomechanical foot deficiencies can lead to a variety of significant health benefits, including:

1. Restored mobility - when a functional disorder or biomechanical condition makes walking difficult, uncomfortable, or downright painful, an active lifestyle can fall by the wayside. Custom orthotics are designed to give you the kind of personalized anatomical support that provides instant comfort and pain relief so you can walk, run, dance, and jump with confidence. 

2. Increased comfort and help relieve pain - whether you have flat feet, high arches, bunions, gout, or chronic heel pain, custom orthotics are designed to provide the kind of all-day comfort you just can’t get from store-bought inserts or even most shoes. From the moment you start wearing your custom orthotics, your feet feel less stressed and more stable and when your feet are comfortable, your body’s more comfortable, too. 

3. Improved posture - wearing the wrong shoes doesn’t simply increase your risk of foot problems, it also boosts your chances of developing the kind of poor biomechanics that can give rise to poor posture, an altered gait, and chronic ankle, knee, hip, or back problems. With custom orthotics, you will improve your posture to do life activities with satisfaction. 

4. Help prevent injuries - extra support for your feet, ankles, knees, hips, and wrists can significantly reduce your risk of further injuries, including fractures and sprains. In your shoes, custom orthotics provide a stable surface that supports the motions of your feet and legs, and orthotics on your joints can protect you from strains or overextension. 

5. Custom Orthotics fit you perfectly - when we prescribe your custom orthotics, we carefully consider your entire musculoskeletal system, the kind of shoes you wear, your activity goals, and any health conditions you’re experiencing. Custom orthotics are designed to fit your foot and allow you to walk or run without risk of discomfort or injury. You cannot get that with over-the-counter products.

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Are Custom Orthotics Worth It?

When it comes to your feet and comfort, you shouldn’t just trust them with anyone. Most people will get advice on off the shelf orthotics from their local shoe store as they try on a new pair of shoes. Whether the shoes are for running or walking, having the right orthotics is essential. If the gait analysis is incorrect, advice from these stores can cause problems. It can even cause significant discomfort and possible injury. Your best bet is always to seek the professional advice of a podiatrist when it comes to your feet so they can prescribe orthotics that are best suited for your needs. 

Finding options for people with a flat foot, high arches, plantar fasciitis, running injuries, and other related conditions that don’t break the bank is a challenge. Let’s explore these options, the science of orthotics, and the costs involved to get you up and running again.

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Custom Orthotics Improve Your Overall Health

In conclusion, custom orthotics and pre-fabricated orthotics are two different types of devices that are used to support, align, or improve the function of the feet, ankles, and legs. Custom orthotics are tailored to the specific needs and requirements of the individual and are made from higher-quality materials, while pre-fabricated orthotics are mass-produced and are made from lower-quality materials. Custom orthotics are generally more effective at providing support and relief from foot pain, but they are also more expensive than pre-fabricated orthotics.

Custom orthotics are more useful and more benefits than the Pre-fabricated orthotics. For some people, wearing well-fitting shoes with good arch support is all it takes to maintain healthy feet; for others, custom orthotics are just as essential for keeping feet balanced and ready to go the distance. They can help to improve posture and alignment, provide pain relief, increase comfort, improve stability, and even enhance athletic performance. Custom orthotic is a prescribed medical device from a podiatrist. Custom means,  a doctor uses casts, impressions, or scans to perfectly fit your foot. To find out if custom orthotics are the right solution for you, call us or book an appointment online today. You may reach us in Bethesda Maryland or Dallas, Texas to schedule an appointment.

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