What are Orthotics?

Custom Orthotics (inserts) are medical devices that are made from the impression of your feet. They are then fabricated in an orthotic lab by a licensed orthotist from the Podiatrist’s Prescription based on your specific needs.

Patients are Surprised at the Results

The results are inserts that are custom fitted for your shoes for realignment and support of the feet and ankle.

Often, our patients are amazed at what the prescribed inserts can do. Orthotics can modify structural and functional characteristics of the skeletal system, helping to alleviate the painful conditions resulting from foot and ankle maladies.

Can You Benefit from Orthotic Inserts or Orthopedic Shoes?

Orthotics are custom inserts or orthopedic shoes designed to ease and prevent foot, ankle, knee, hip or lower back pain.

If you experience pain in these areas that worsens with activity, you may be a candidate for orthotics.

Other signs include shin splints, pain in your calves, heels or arches. Orthotics are one of the best preventative measures you can take before pain reduces your ability to walk or functional level.

Speaking to a podiatrist and educating yourself on your foot type can help you recognize signs and symptoms that can be indications for custom orthotics or therapeutic shoes.

• Proper arch support to the feet
• Realignment of the biomechanics of the feet
• Reduction of the pressure points to an area of stress, e.g. calluses, bony prominences
• Prevention of abnormal motion that can produce tissue and joint injury over time
• Reduction of pain; hence, improve ambulation (walking) and increase functional level
• Facilitation in rehabilitation from an ankle or foot fracture
• Prevention of sports injury and an increase in performance.

With over 15 years of experience as a podiatrist in Baltimore County, Dr. Vu specializes in diabetic foot care, sports medicine, fabrication of custom orthotics. Dr. Vu is also a skilled foot and ankle surgeon with staff privileges at Northwest Hospital and Surgcenter of Windsor Mill and Surgcenter of White Marsh.