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The
foot and ankle are the foundation for the overall posture
of the skeletal body. Abnormal foot mechanics cause
stresses that can lead to numerous foot problems as
well as leg, knee, hip and lower back pain.
Orthotics
are orthopedic devices that help control abnormal foot
motions, such as excessive pronation and excessive supination.
They provide support, control, stability, absorb shock,
and relieve pressure on uncomfortable or sore areas.
Orthotics
are not a cure-all, but rather a conservative, non-invasive
treatment option. They help your feet to function more
efficiently. Orthotics can prevent injury or deformity
from occurring or halt the progression of existing conditions,
allowing healing to occur. They are also very useful
in optimizing comfort and protection and enhancing performance.
NOTE:
The information on this web site is presented for educational
purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for
diagnosis and treatment by a qualified, licensed professional.
ACHILLES
TENDINITIS - Inflammation of the tendon
that attaches the calf muscle of the leg to the back
of the heel bone. When placed under too much stress
the tendon tightens and becomes inflamed - tendinitis.
If left untreated continued stress can cause the tendon
to tear or rupture.
Symptoms: Stiffness and pain anywhere along the
back of the ankle but usually near the heel. Redness
or heat over the painful area. Prolonged inflammation
can lead to the formation of scar tissue and limit ankle
flexibility.
Cause: Many factors can lead to Achilles tendinitis,
but the most common causes are improper warm-up (tight
or fatigued calf muscles), overtraining (excessive hill
running or speedwork), and excessive pronation.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: Our Sportsman
(modified) with 1/8" heel lifts. The Sportsman
provides good arch support and control, preventing excessive
pronation. Other options include our Magna-Comfort
(for those interested in incorporating magnetic therapy)
or Heel-Lite (for additional
heel cushioning.) All of these orthotics are covered
with (full length) cellular cushioning top covers for
added shock absorption, comfort and protection. For
those who prefer more toe box room, our Ortho-Max
is similar to the Sportsman but with a 3/4 length top
cover extension. Heel lifts will help
relieve the additional stress caused by the shortening
of the tendon.
Our (intrinsically posted) pre-molded orthotics are
most therapeutic for individuals weighing up 175 lbs.
For individuals who are very active and or weigh more
than 175 lbs., we would recommend adding arch
filler/extrinsic rear foot posting.
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BUNIONS
- Also known as Hallux Valgus. An enlargement of
bone or tissue around the joint at the base of the big
toe, causing the big toe to slant toward the second
toe. Over time it is not uncommon to find the big toe
resting under or over the second toe. If it occurs at
the base of the little toe it is called a bunionette.
Symptoms: Development of a firm bump on the outside
edge of the foot, at the base of the big toe. Mild to
severe pain, redness and swelling at or around the joint.
Restricted or painful motion of the big toe. This condition
tends to worsen over time leading to other foot problems
such as corns, calluses, hammertoes, and arch pain.
Cause: Most often a symptom of faulty foot mechanics.
The deformity runs in families, but it is the foot
type that is passed down not the bunion. People
with low, flexible arches, or flat feet tend to over-pronate.
This motion (when the arch collapses too much and the
foot rotates too far inward) is believed to be a major
culprit of bunions. Women's dress shoes exacerbate the
problem. High heels place stress on the joints, and
the tight, narrow toe box area compounds the problem.
Bunions are also associated with various forms of arthritis.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: Our Bunion
Buddy is engineered to relieve the pain and discomfort
associated with bunions; and help control their progression.
The Bunion Buddy provides good arch support and control,
preventing excessive pronation. The shell incorporates
a forefoot post that unloads pressure to the bunion
area, helping relieve pain and discomfort. It is covered
with a (full length) cellular cushioning top cover for
added shock absorption, comfort and protection.
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CHONDROMALACIA
- Referred to by some as "runners knee".
Irritation of the cartilage under the kneecap (or patella),
resulting in pain and inflammation. The cartilage becomes
rough because the kneecap is not riding smoothly over
the knee. This is one of the most common causes of knee
pain.
Symptoms: Pain and swelling beneath or on the
sides of the kneecap. In severe cases you may feel or
hear the grinding of cartilage when the knee is flexed.
Cause: Several factors can contribute to chondromalacia,
including overuse (especially the pounding shocks absorbed
from downhill running, hiking or jogging), obesity,
previous knee trauma, and excessive pronation. Abnormal
foot pronation results in increased rotation and angling
inward of the leg, causing misalignment and stress on
the knee.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: Our Sportsman
provides good arch support and control, preventing excessive
pronation. Other options include our Magna-Comfort
(for those interested in incorporating magnetic therapy)
or Heel-Lite (for additional
heel cushioning.) All of these orthotics are covered
with (full length) cellular cushioning top covers for
added shock absorption, comfort and protection. For
those who prefer more toe box room, our Ortho-Max
is similar to the Sportsman but with a 3/4 length top
cover extension.
Our (intrinsically posted) pre-molded orthotics are
most therapeutic for individuals weighing up 175 lbs.
For individuals who are very active and or weigh more
than 175 lbs., we would recommend adding arch
filler/extrinsic rear foot posting.
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EXCESSIVE
PRONATION - Also referred to as over-pronation,
this biomechanical problem is very common in a person
with a flexible, flat foot, called a planus foot. Pronation
occurs in the walking cycle when a person's arch collapses
upon weight bearing. This is part of the normal gait
cycle, allowing the foot to absorb shock and adjust
to uneven surfaces. However, too much of this
motion (excessive pronation, over-pronation) can cause
stress or inflammation on the planter fascia ligament
(plantar fasciitis), and lead to numerous other foot
and related conditions.
Symptoms: Over time, this motion can lead to
the development of conditions such as Achilles tendinitis,
bunions, heel spurs, metatarsalgia, Morton's neuroma,
plantar fasciitis (heel and arch pain), post-tib tendinitis,
shin splints, tarsal tunnel syndrome, as well as knee
pain (chondromalacia, iliotibial band syndrome), hip
pain and lower back discomfort. Related conditions include
corns, calluses and hammertoes. When standing, your
heels and/or kneecaps may lean or turn inward, and you
may abnormally wear out the soles and heels of your
shoes very quickly.
Cause: Very common in people with flexible, flat
feet. Flat feet may be hereditary or caused by obesity
or pregnancy. Arches can also fall from trauma (from
sports, repeated stress) and wearing high-heeled shoes
for long periods.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: All of our
pre-molded orthotics help control
excessive pronation. We offer pre-molded orthotics for
different footwear, conditions, and activities. The
more functional the footwear (sneakers, full depth shoes)
the more therapeutic the orthotic therapy. The design
(low profile, narrow toe box) of fashion footwear limits
the room for orthotics and related therapeutic benefits.
Our (intrinsically posted) pre-molded orthotics are
most therapeutic for individuals weighing up 175 lbs.
For individuals who are very active and or weigh more
than 175 lbs., we would recommend adding arch
filler/extrinsic rear foot posting.
Back
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EXCESSIVE
SUPINATION - Also referred to as under-pronation,
this biomechanical problem is most common in a person
with a rigid, high arch, called a cavus foot. This type
of foot usually does not pronate (roll inward) enough.
Because the arch does not flatten it is not an effective
shock absorber. As a result, the weight of the body
falls only on the heel and bases of the toe, increasing
stress on the foot.
Symptoms: Can result in conditions such as Achilles
tendinitis, plantar fasciitis (heel and arch pain),
calluses, metatarsalgia, sesamoiditis, and cause ankle,
knee, hip and lower back pain. Shoes will wear on the
(entire) outside edge, and the sides of the shoe may
become over-stretched. If you place shoes on a flat
surface they will tend to tilt outward.
Cause: Very common in people who have high arches.
High arched feet tend to be hereditary. Tight Achilles
tendons contribute to supination.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: Our pre-molded
orthotics are (most) therapeutic treating/preventing
excessive pronation and related conditions. For individuals
with high, (rigid) arches, often referred to as a cavus
foot type, we would recommend consulting a podiatrist
about custom (prescription) orthotics.
For those individuals with high, (flexible) arches interested
in a conservative treatment approach, we would recommend
our Foot Enhancement
System orthotics (modified) with lateral wedges/forefoot
posting. The Foot Enhancement System provides semi-flexible
arch support and control. It is covered with a (full
length) cellular cushioning top cover for added shock
absorption, comfort and protection.
Lateral wedges/forefoot posting should
help induce pronation and unload pressure on the heel
and first met head.
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HEEL
SPURS - A projection of growth of bone on the
underside of the front part of the heel bone. Occurs
when the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along
the bottom of the foot that supports the arch pulls
at its attachment to the heel bone. This area can calcify
to form a spur.
Symptoms: While some heel spurs are painless
others can cause extreme rearfoot pain, especially while
standing or walking. The pain is usually located just
in front of the heel towards the arch.
Cause: Often results from a biomechanical imbalance.
The stretching of the plantar fascia is usually due
to excessive pronation, but people with a very high
arch (cavus foot) also develop heel spurs. Others factors
include a sudden increase in activity, ill-fitting shoes
and obesity.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: Our Heel-Lite
provides good arch support and control, preventing excessive
pronation. It is covered with a (full length) cellular
cushioning top cover for added shock absorption, comfort
and protection. A special heel cutout (in the shell)
is filled with a gel pressure relief pad that cushions
the heel spur area.
The Heel-Lite is most therapeutic for individuals
weighing up 175 lbs. For individuals who are very active
and or weigh more than 175 lbs., we would recommend
adding arch filler/extrinsic rear foot
posting.
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ILIOTIBIAL
BAND SYNDROME - Inflammation and pain on the
outer side of the knee where the iliotibial band (thick
fibrous tissue that runs along the outside of the leg)
is rubbing against the large leg bone, the femur. The
function of the iliotibial band is both to provide stability
to the knee and to assist in flexion of the knee joint.
When irritated, movement of the knee joint becomes painful.
Symptoms: Lateral (outside) knee pain, usually
increases gradually on a run.
Cause: People who suddenly increase their level
of activity, such as runners increasing their mileage,
often develop iliotibial band syndrome. Others factors
include mechanical problems such leg length discrepancies,
bow-legs, and excessive pronation. Abnormal foot pronation
results in increased rotation and angling inward of
the leg, causing misalignment and stress on the knee.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: Our Sportsman
provides good arch support and control, preventing excessive
pronation. Other options include our Magna-Comfort
(for those interested in incorporating magnetic therapy)
or Heel-Lite (for additional
heel cushioning.) All of these orthotics are covered
with (full length) cellular cushioning top covers for
added shock absorption, comfort and protection. For
those who prefer more toe box room, our Ortho-Max
is similar to the Sportsman but with a 3/4 length top
cover extension.
Our (intrinsically posted) pre-molded orthotics are
most therapeutic for individuals weighing up 175 lbs.
For individuals who are very active and or weigh more
than 175 lbs., we would recommend adding arch
filler/extrinsic rear foot posting. And for those
with a leg length discrepancy, we would recommend adding
a heel lift that is half the leg length
discrepancy.
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METATARSALGIA
- A
generic term to denote pain or discomfort in the metatarsal
region of the foot. This is the area just behind the
toes, most often called the ball-of-the-foot. With this
condition one or more of the metatarsal joints becomes
painful and inflamed, usually from excessive pressure
over an extended period of time.
Symptoms: A dull, bruise like, ache in the area
of the ball-of-the-foot. Others symptoms include tingling
or numbness in the toes and sharp or shooting pain in
the toes.
Cause: Women's dress shoes are the major culprit.
High heels place stress on the forefoot joints, and
the tight, narrow toe box area compounds the problem.
Abnormal weight distribution on the forefoot due to
excessive pronation can be a factor. Other causes include
trauma (from sports, repeated stress), decrease of fat
pad with age, arthritis and obesity.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: All of our
pre-molded orthotics help control
excessive pronation. We offer pre-molded orthotics for
different footwear, conditions, and activities. The
more functional the footwear (sneakers, full depth shoes)
the more therapeutic the orthotic therapy. The design
(low profile, narrow toe box) of fashion footwear limits
the room for orthotics and the related therapeutic benefits.
A pair of our pre-molded (modified) with metatarsal
pads will relieve pressure, and redistribute weight
away from the painful area to a more tolerant area.
Our (intrinsically posted) pre-molded orthotics are
most therapeutic for individuals weighing up 175 lbs.
For individuals who are very active and or weigh more
than 175 lbs., we would recommend adding arch
filler/extrinsic rear foot posting.
Back
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MORTON'S
NEUROMA - An irritated, swollen nerve in the
ball-of-the-foot usually described as pain between the
base of the third and fourth toes, although it can also
occur between the second and third toes.
Symptoms: Sharp, burning pain in the ball-of-the
foot, can be intermittent or constant. Morton's neuroma
may also cause numbness or tingling at the tips of the
toes and cramping.
Cause: Abnormal weight distribution on the forefoot
due to excessive pronation is thought to be a major
culprit. This motion (when the arch collapses too much
and the foot rotates too far inward) can cause the metatarsal
bones to rub together, pinching the nerves. Other factors
include forefoot trauma (from sports, repetitive stress),
arthritis, and high heeled or confining footwear. In
fact, this condition is much more common in women presumably
due to their footwear. High Heels transfer weight to
the forefoot and the tight toe box area causes compression.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: All of our
pre-molded orthotics help control
excessive pronation. We offer pre-molded orthotics for
different footwear, conditions, and activities. The
more functional the footwear (sneakers, full depth shoes)
the more therapeutic the orthotic therapy. The design
(low profile, narrow toe box) of fashion footwear limits
the room for orthotics and the related therapeutic benefits.
A pair of our pre-molded (modified) with metatarsal
pads placed behind the ball-of-the-foot (between
the third and fourth toes), will unload pressure on
the nerve, and redistribute weight away from the painful
area to a more tolerant area.
Our (intrinsically posted) pre-molded orthotics are
most therapeutic for individuals weighing up 175 lbs.
For individuals who are very active and or weigh more
than 175 lbs., we would recommend adding arch
filler/extrinsic rear foot posting.
Back
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PLANTAR
FASCIITIS - Heel and or arch pain commonly traced
to an inflammation of the plantar fascia, a long, thick,
fibrous band of connective tissue (on the bottom of
the foot) running from the heel to the base of the toes.
Plantar refers to the bottom of the foot and
fascia is a type of connective tissue. When the
plantar fascia ligament is excessively stretched it
tears, causing inflammation of the fascia and surrounding
tissues. This can cause heel pain and arch pain, and
lead to heel spurs.
Symptoms: Pain at the base of the heel, where
the heel meets the arch. It is normally most severe
in the morning when getting out of bed because the fascia
is tighter at this time. As the day progresses and the
fascia continues to be stretched, the pain often fades.
Cause: Many factors can lead to plantar fasciitis,
but the most common causes are biomechanical imbalances,
especially excessive pronation. This motion (when the
arch collapses too much and the foot rotates too far
inward) can cause the arch of your foot to stretch excessively,
creating stress and inflammation. A person with a rigid,
high arched foot or tight Achilles tendon is also quite
susceptible to this condition. Stress from an increase
in activity/training, and excessive weight, normally
resulting from obesity or pregnancy exacerbates the
problem.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: Our Sportsman
provides good arch support and control, preventing excessive
pronation. Other options include our Magna-Comfort
(for those interested in incorporating magnetic therapy)
or Heel-Lite (for additional
heel cushioning.) All of these orthotics are covered
with (full length) cellular cushioning top covers for
added shock absorption, comfort and protection. For
those who prefer more toe box room, our Ortho-Max
is similar to the Sportsman but with a 3/4 length top
cover extension.
Our (intrinsically posted) pre-molded orthotics are
most therapeutic for individuals weighing up 175 lbs.
For individuals who are very active and or weigh more
than 175 lbs., we would recommend adding arch
filler/extrinsic rear foot posting.
Back
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POST-TIB
TENDINITIS - Also referred to as Progressive
Flatfoot. Stress on the posterior tibial tendon, resulting
in inflammation. The posterior tendon runs along the
inside of the ankle and attaches at the inside of the
midfoot or arch area. The tendon is responsible for
helping to maintain the arch in the foot. When it is
not functioning properly the tendon does not hold up
the arch, causing flat feet.
Symptoms: When the posterior tendon is inflamed
or partially torn, pain is felt from the inside of the
ankle to the arch area. Pain is more severe upon weight
bearing, especially while walking or running.
Cause: Occurs when the muscle is overused and
the tendon (soft tissue) that connects the muscle to
your bone is strained. It can result form years of excessive
pronation.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: Our Sportsman
provides good arch support and control, preventing excessive
pronation. Other options include our Magna-Comfort
(for those interested in incorporating magnetic therapy)
or Heel-Lite (for additional
heel cushioning.) All of these orthotics are covered
with (full length) cellular cushioning top covers for
added shock absorption, comfort and protection. For
those who prefer more toe box room, our Ortho-Max
is similar to the Sportsman but with a 3/4 length top
cover extension.
Our (intrinsically posted) pre-molded orthotics are
most therapeutic for individuals weighing up 175 lbs.
For individuals who are very active and or weigh more
than 175 lbs., we would recommend adding arch
filler/extrinsic rear foot posting.
Back
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SESAMOIDITIS
- Sometimes referred to as the "ball bearing
of the foot," the sesamoids are two small bones
found beneath the first metatarsal bone, which leads
to the big toe. The surrounding tendons can inflame
or rupture under the repetitive stress of exercise.
Symptoms: Its most common symptom is pain in
the ball-of-the-foot, especially on the medial or inner
side (under the big toe). The pain usually begins as
a mild ache and increases gradually as the aggravating
activity is continued. There may also be some swelling
throughout the bottom of the forefoot. There is usually
little, if any, bruising or redness.
Cause: Repetitive excessive pressure on the forefoot.
It is a common condition among ballet dancers and baseball
catchers but even an activity like walking can cause
this condition. Sesamoiditis can also be caused by a
decrease of fat pad with age and high arched feet.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: All of our
pre-molded orthotics help control
excessive pronation. We offer pre-molded orthotics for
different footwear, conditions, and activities. The
more functional the footwear (sneakers, full depth shoes)
the more therapeutic the orthotic therapy. The design
(low profile, narrow toe box) of fashion footwear limits
the room for orthotics and the related therapeutic benefits.
A pair of our pre-molded (modified) with a 1st
ray cutout in the shell will accommodate the sesamoid
discomfort.
Our (intrinsically posted) pre-molded orthotics are
most therapeutic for individuals weighing up 175 lbs.
For individuals who are very active and or weigh more
than 175 lbs., we would recommend adding arch
filler/extrinsic rear foot posting.
Back
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SHIN
SPLINTS - A catch-all term for lower leg pain
(below the knee) that occurs along the tibia (shin)
bone. This pain can occur either the front outside (anterior
lateral) part of the leg or the back inside (posterior
medial) part of the leg . Medial shin splints is also
called Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome. Anterior shin
splints are thought to be some kind of stress fracture
(crack in the bone) or compartment syndrome (muscle
swelling).
Symptoms: An aching, throbbing or tenderness
along the inside (medial) or outside (lateral) of the
shin about halfway down or possibly all along the shin
from the ankle to the knee.
Cause: Often related to excessive foot pronation,
especially medial shin splints. This motion (when the
arch collapses too much and the foot rotates too far
inward) places stress on the medial structures of the
leg. Other risk factors include overtraining, muscle
imbalances, improper stretching, running or jumping
on hard surfaces, and insufficient shock absorption.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: Our Shin-Sprinter
provides good arch support and control, preventing excessive
pronation. It incorporates extrinsic rear foot posting
with a continuous arch filler to stabilize the motion
of the foot during each stride and provide uniform arch
support and control. The shell is covered with a (full
length) cellular cushioning top cover for added shock
absorption, comfort and protection.
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TARSAL
TUNNEL SYNDROME - A condition that occurs when
the posterior tibial nerve becomes inflamed from abnormal
pressure (entrapment). The tibial nerve runs down the
back of the leg into the foot behind the bump on the
inside of the ankle.
Symptoms: Pain, burning, tingling (electrical
sensations) or numbness in the sole of the foot. The
pain usually worsens with activity and is reduced by
rest. There may be pain to touch along the course of
the nerve.
Cause: Mechanically, excessive pronation (often
associated with flat feet) can be a factor. This motion
(when the arch collapses too much and the foot rotates
too far inward) causes the muscle and nerves running
around the ankle to shift, compressing (pinching) the
tibial nerve. Other risk factors include repetitive
stress from an increase in activity/training, excessive
weight, varicose veins or any type of lesion (tissue
mass) that can nerve compression.
Pre-molded Orthotic Recommendation: Our
Sportsman provides good
arch support and control, preventing excessive pronation.
Other options include our Magna-Comfort
(for those interested in incorporating magnetic therapy)
or Heel-Lite (for additional
heel cushioning.) All of these orthotics are covered
with (full length) cellular cushioning top covers for
added shock absorption, comfort and protection. For
those who prefer more toe box room, our Ortho-Max
is similar to the Sportsman but with a 3/4 length top
cover extension.
Our (intrinsically posted) pre-molded orthotics are
most therapeutic for individuals weighing up 175 lbs.
For individuals who are very active and or weigh more
than 175 lbs., we would recommend adding arch
filler/extrinsic rear foot posting.
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MODIFICATIONS
Arch
Filler/Extrinsic Rear Foot Posting: Our standard
(intrinsically posted**) pre-molded orthotics are designed
to provide (maximum) therapeutic support, control and
stability for people weighing up to 175 lbs. They can
(and most often do) provide therapeutic benefits for
people weighing more, however, there is not as much
therapeutic support, control and stability.
Arch Filler is a cellular sponge material that we add
under the heel (Extrinsic RF Posting) that extends through
the arch to provide the additional support, control
and stability that is necessary to support additional
weight and/or activity. Furthermore, it makes the orthotics
much more durable. Modified devices are (made-to-order),
with the arch filler/extrinsic RF posting incorporated
directly into the device.
We charge an additional $10.00 (per pair) for this modification.
Since they are made-to-order modified devices are not
returnable, but if necessary we will adjust (increase/decrease)
the arch filler at no additional charge. Our goal is
to provide you with 100% satisfaction!
You can request
this modification in the (comments) section on our order
form.
**Intrinsically Posted Styles: Foot Enhancement System,
Sportsman, Silhouette, Low Profile, Ortho-Max, Heel-Lite,
Ortho-Betic, Magna-Comfort, Golf, and CEO Executive.
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Heel
Lifts: Recommended for Achilles tendinitis and leg
length discrepancies.
We charge an additional $10.00 (per pair) or $5.00 per
orthotic for this modification. Since they are made-to-order
modified devices are not returnable, but if necessary
we offer free adjustments. Our goal is to provide you
with 100% satisfaction!
You can request
this modification in the (comments) section on our order
form.
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Lateral
Wedges/Forefoot Posting: Recommended
for excessive supination to help induce pronation.
We charge an additional $10.00 (per pair) for this modification.
Since they are made-to-order modified devices are not
returnable, but if necessary we offer free adjustments.
Our goal is to provide you with 100% satisfaction!
You can request
this modification in the (comments) section on our order
form.
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Metatarsal
Pads: Recommended for metatatarsalgia and Morton's
neuroma to unload pressure and redistribute weight away
from the painful area to a more tolerant area.
The metatarsal pads are incorporated into the orthotics
and not simply stand alone add-ons.
We charge an additional $10.00 (per pair) for this modification.
Since they are made-to-order modified devices are not
returnable, but if necessary we offer free adjustments.
Our goal is to provide you with 100% satisfaction!
You can request this modification in the (comments)
section on our order form.
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1st
Ray Cutout: Recommended for Sesamoiditis.
There is no charge for this modification. Since they
are made-to-order modified devices are not returnable,
but if necessary we offer free adjustments. Our goal
is to provide you with 100% satisfaction!
You can request
this modification in the (comments) section on our order
form.
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