Hara Podiatrists’ Group is proud to offer custom orthotics made in our lab located right on site. We are the only podiatry office in Covina, CA with an in-house orthotic fabrication lab. Unlike practices that send out your order, you won’t have to wait weeks to get your custom orthotics. If you need any adjustments or modifications made, we are often able to get them done while you wait in our Covina podiatry office.
What Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are customized shoe inserts that can balance many foot deformities and correct misalignments. Sometimes called arch supports, orthotics allow people to stand, walk, and run more efficiently and comfortably.
While over-the-counter orthotics are available and may help people with mild symptoms, they normally cannot correct the wide range of symptoms that prescription foot orthoses can, since they are not custom made to fit an individual’s unique foot structure. More often than not, they can also help you avoid surgery.
To create your custom orthotic, Dr. Hratch Demirjian will take a plaster impression of your feet. The orthotic device is made to the exact specifications of your foot right in our on site orthotic fabrication lab. When they are complete, you will wear your orthotics every day to alleviate pain associated with your heels, arches, flat feet, ankles, and lower back.
Orthotic devices come in many shapes, sizes, and materials and fall into three main categories: those designed to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in nature, and those that combine functional control and protection.
Rigid Orthotics
Rigid orthotic devices are designed to control function and are used primarily for walking or dress shoes. They are often composed of a firm material, such as plastic or carbon fiber.
Rigid orthotics are made from a mold after Dr. Demirjian takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot. Rigid orthotics control motion in the two major foot joints that lie directly below the ankle joint, and they may improve or eliminate strains, aches, and pains in the legs, thighs, and lower back.
Soft Orthotics
Soft orthotics are generally used to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. They are usually effective for diabetic, arthritic, and deformed feet.
Soft orthotics are typically made up of soft, cushioned materials so that they can be worn against the sole of the foot, extending from the heel past the ball of the foot, including the toes. Like rigid orthotics, soft orthotics are also made from a mold after Dr. Demirjian takes a plaster cast or other kind of image of the foot.
Semi-Rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotics provide foot balance for walking or participating in sports. The typical semi-rigid orthotic is made up of layers of soft material, reinforced with more rigid materials. Semi-rigid orthotics are often prescribed for children to treat flatfoot and in-toeing or out-toeing disorders. These orthotics are also used to help athletes mitigate pain while they train and compete.
Custom Orthotics Made Right in Our Covina, CA Podiatry Office
Don’t wait to get your custom orthotics made. Call the Covina, CA podiatrist with the orthotic lab right on site. Dr. Demirjian will get you fitted and on your way in no time. Contact Hara Podiatrists’ Group at (626) 331-7391 or use our online appointment request form.