Orthotics Specialist
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Leonard Greenwald, DPM
Podiatrist & Foot and Ankle Surgeon located in San Jose, CA
Everyone's feet are different shapes and sizes. It's these differences that can cause painful problems, affecting how you walk, stand, and move. Custom orthotics help realign your feet using non-invasive, non-surgical methods. Skilled podiatrist Leonard Greenwald, DPM, successfully incorporates orthotics into his patients' care programs to provide corrected foot function and pain relief. To schedule a consultation, call the office in San Jose, California, or book online today.
Orthotics Q&A
What are orthotics?
Orthotics are devices that help ease foot and ankle pain. Dr. Greenwald may also recommend them to prevent or postpone the need for surgery.
Depending on your circumstances, you may need one or more orthotic devices. These could include shoe inserts, arch supports, ankle braces, and footpads.
You can purchase over-the-counter orthotic solutions, but Dr. Greenwald recommends custom orthotics for more serious conditions. A custom orthotic is made-to-measure, designed and built for your precise needs.
What are the different types of orthotics?
Orthotics come in different forms, depending on their purpose. Some of the most commonly used orthotics include:
Shoe inserts
Shoe inserts come in several options to offer support where you need it most. They can be soft or firm and take the form of insoles, footbeds, and arch and heel supports.
A custom shoe insert is shaped to your foot to correct foot function, encourage proper gait form, and relieve pain.
Footpads
Footpads are similar to shoe inserts in that you usually place them inside your shoe, but they take up a much smaller area. You can also attach them directly to your foot.
Footpads come in several forms, such as bunion pads, circle or doughnut pads, and metatarsal pads. They commonly treat conditions that affect the front of the foot.
Ankle brace
An ankle brace provides support to those who experience ankle weakness or instability caused by conditions like arthritis and tendinitis. The brace must be fitted over the patient's shoe and can be custom-made when a specific fit is essential for recovery.
If Dr. Greenwald thinks that you’ll benefit from custom orthotics, he discusses the different options available and talks through the pros and cons of each.
What conditions can orthotics treat?
Dr. Greenwald often prescribes orthotics as part of a comprehensive treatment program. They help treat or manage several types of foot- or ankle-related conditions, including:
- Bunions
- Diabetic neuropathy
- Plantar fasciitis
- Foot or ankle trauma
- Flat feet
- Arthritis
- Bursitis
- Heel spurs
- Hammertoes
- High arches
Orthotics can also help ease transferred pain — pain that occurs in another area of the body because of an issue in the foot or ankle.
Orthotics can provide quick relief from foot and ankle pain. Call Leonard Greenwald, DPM, or request a consultation online today to find out more.