Custom orthotics are medical-grade shoe inserts precisely crafted to your foot's unique structure, providing superior support and pain relief for conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and heel pain. At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute in Albuquerque, our board-certified podiatrists use advanced casting techniques to create personalized orthotics that correct biomechanical imbalances, redistribute pressure, and restore proper foot function—offering a non-surgical solution that addresses the root cause of your discomfort.
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What Are Custom Orthotics?
Custom orthotics, also called custom foot orthotics or orthotic inserts, are prescription medical devices designed to support and correct your foot's biomechanics. Unlike generic shoe inserts purchased at retail stores, custom orthotics are precisely fabricated from a three-dimensional impression or scan of your feet, ensuring they match your unique foot contours and address your specific condition.
At our Albuquerque podiatry practice, we understand that every foot is different. Two people may have the same diagnosis—such as plantar fasciitis—but require completely different orthotic designs based on their foot structure, activity level, and biomechanical needs. This personalized approach is what makes custom orthotics so effective.
How Custom Orthotics Work
Custom orthotics work by:
- Correcting alignment: Positioning your feet in optimal alignment to reduce strain on muscles, tendons, and ligaments
- Redistributing pressure: Spreading weight evenly across your feet to eliminate painful pressure points
- Providing support: Supporting your arch and heel to maintain proper foot mechanics during movement
- Absorbing shock: Cushioning impact forces to protect joints throughout your lower body
- Controlling motion: Limiting excessive pronation or supination that contributes to foot and ankle injuries
By addressing these fundamental biomechanical issues, custom orthotics often eliminate the need for more invasive interventions like injections or surgery.
Benefits of Custom Orthotics
Custom foot orthotics from our Albuquerque podiatrists offer numerous advantages for patients experiencing foot pain and discomfort:
Immediate Pain Relief
Many patients experience significant reduction in foot pain within the first few weeks of wearing custom orthotics. By correcting alignment and reducing stress on painful structures, orthotics provide relief where other treatments have failed.
Prevention of Future Problems
Custom orthotics don't just treat existing conditions—they help prevent future complications. Proper foot mechanics reduce wear and tear on joints, potentially preventing arthritis, stress fractures, and chronic overuse injuries.
Improved Athletic Performance
Athletes in Albuquerque benefit from custom orthotics designed for their specific sport. Sport-specific orthotics enhance stability, power transfer, and endurance while reducing injury risk.
Better Posture and Overall Health
Because your feet form the foundation of your entire body, correcting foot mechanics with custom orthotics often improves posture and reduces pain in your knees, hips, and lower back. Many patients notice improvements throughout their entire kinetic chain.
Long-Term Cost Savings
While custom orthotics require an initial investment, they typically last 3-5 years and may prevent expensive surgeries or ongoing treatments. Most patients find them more cost-effective than continually purchasing over-the-counter inserts that don't address their underlying problems.
Conditions Treated With Custom Orthotics in Albuquerque
Our Albuquerque podiatrists prescribe custom orthotics for a wide range of foot and ankle conditions:
Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Pain
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common reasons patients seek custom orthotics. By providing arch support and cushioning the heel, orthotics reduce tension on the plantar fascia and accelerate healing. Many patients experience dramatic improvement in their heel pain within weeks.
Flat Feet and Fallen Arches
Patients with flat feet or collapsed arches benefit tremendously from custom orthotics. The devices provide the arch support that flat feet lack, reducing strain on muscles and tendons while improving stability and reducing fatigue.
High Arches (Cavus Foot)
People with high arches need extra cushioning to compensate for reduced natural shock absorption. Custom orthotics for high arches distribute pressure more evenly and prevent excessive stress on the ball and heel of the foot.
Bunions and Hammertoes
Custom orthotics slow the progression of bunions and hammertoes by correcting the biomechanical forces that cause these deformities. While they won't reverse existing deformities, they provide relief and may prevent the need for surgery.
Achilles Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis often responds well to custom orthotics with heel lifts and specific arch support designs that reduce strain on the Achilles tendon during walking and running.
Diabetic Foot Care
Patients with diabetes require specialized accommodative orthotics that redistribute pressure to prevent ulcer formation. Our Albuquerque podiatrists design diabetic orthotics with extra cushioning and seamless construction to protect vulnerable feet.
Pediatric Foot Conditions
Children experiencing foot pain or developmental issues benefit from pediatric orthotics designed for growing feet. Early intervention often corrects problems before they become permanent, helping children stay active and pain-free.
Morton's Neuroma
Neuromas, or pinched nerves between the toes, respond to custom orthotics with metatarsal pads that relieve pressure on affected nerves and reduce painful symptoms.
Posterior Tibial Tendon Dysfunction
This condition, which can lead to adult-acquired flatfoot, benefits from custom orthotics that support the arch and reduce stress on the posterior tibial tendon. Early treatment with orthotics may prevent progressive deformity.
Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Orthotics: Understanding the Difference
Many patients wonder whether they truly need custom orthotics or if over-the-counter inserts will suffice. While OTC inserts work for some people with mild, non-specific foot fatigue, custom orthotics offer distinct advantages:
Precision and Personalization
Custom orthotics are created from an exact model of your feet, capturing every contour and pressure point. This precision ensures optimal support exactly where you need it. OTC inserts, by contrast, are mass-produced in generic sizes that approximate the "average" foot—which rarely matches any individual's actual anatomy.
Medical-Grade Materials
Custom orthotics use superior materials selected for durability, support characteristics, and your specific diagnosis. Our Albuquerque podiatrists choose from rigid graphite composites, semi-rigid thermoplastics, or accommodative foams depending on your needs. OTC inserts typically use basic foam or gel that compresses quickly.
Prescription-Based Design
When creating custom orthotics, your podiatrist writes a detailed prescription specifying posting angles, arch heights, cushioning zones, and other parameters based on your biomechanical examination. This targeted approach addresses your specific condition rather than providing generic support.
Professional Fitting and Adjustment
Custom orthotics include follow-up appointments where your podiatrist ensures proper fit and makes adjustments as needed. This fine-tuning process optimizes results and prevents problems. OTC inserts offer no such professional oversight.
When OTC Inserts Might Be Appropriate
Our Albuquerque podiatrists do sometimes recommend quality over-the-counter orthotics for:
- Mild general foot fatigue without specific pathology
- Temporary use while custom orthotics are being fabricated
- Children whose feet are still rapidly growing
- Trial purposes to determine if orthotics might help
- Budget-conscious patients with mild symptoms
However, for chronic conditions, significant biomechanical problems, or persistent pain, custom orthotics typically provide far superior results.
Types of Custom Orthotics
At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute, we design different types of custom orthotics based on your diagnosis, activity level, and footwear needs:
Functional (Rigid) Orthotics
Functional orthotics are made from firm materials like graphite or rigid plastics. They're designed to control abnormal motion and are particularly effective for:
- Plantar fasciitis and arch pain
- Flat feet requiring maximum support
- Preventing overpronation during walking
- Reducing stress on joints throughout the lower extremity
These orthotics fit in dress shoes and casual footwear, making them ideal for Albuquerque professionals who spend long days on their feet.
Accommodative (Soft) Orthotics
Accommodative orthotics use softer materials to cushion and protect feet. They're typically prescribed for:
- Diabetic patients at risk for ulcers
- Arthritis sufferers needing extra cushioning
- Patients with painful calluses or corns
- Individuals with insensate feet requiring pressure redistribution
These orthotics absorb shock and reduce friction while conforming to foot deformities.
Semi-Rigid Orthotics
Semi-rigid orthotics balance support and flexibility using layers of soft and firm materials. They're excellent for:
- Athletes and active individuals
- Children and adolescents requiring dynamic support
- Patients transitioning to more supportive orthotics
- Sports-specific applications requiring controlled flexibility
Many of our Albuquerque patients who enjoy hiking in the Sandia Mountains benefit from semi-rigid orthotics that provide stability on uneven terrain.
Sport-Specific Orthotics
Athletes require specialized orthotics designed for their sport's unique demands. We create custom orthotics for:
- Running and marathon training
- Basketball, soccer, and court sports
- Golf and tennis
- Hiking and trail activities
- Cycling and triathlon events
Sport orthotics are often lighter weight and designed to fit athletic footwear while enhancing performance and preventing injury.
Dress and Professional Orthotics
We understand Albuquerque professionals need orthotics that fit dress shoes and professional footwear. Our dress orthotics are:
- Slimmer profile to fit narrower dress shoes
- Leather or suede covered for a professional appearance
- Designed to accommodate dress heel heights
- Still therapeutically effective despite space constraints
Many patients maintain separate pairs of orthotics for work, athletic activities, and casual wear.
The Custom Orthotic Process at New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute
Creating effective custom orthotics requires expertise, precision, and attention to detail. Here's what to expect when you visit our Albuquerque podiatry practice:
Step 1: Comprehensive Biomechanical Evaluation
Your appointment begins with a thorough examination including:
- Medical history review: Understanding your symptoms, previous treatments, and health conditions
- Physical examination: Assessing your feet, ankles, legs, and lower body alignment
- Gait analysis: Observing how you walk to identify biomechanical abnormalities
- Range of motion testing: Evaluating joint flexibility and muscle strength
- Footwear assessment: Examining your current shoes for wear patterns
Step 2: Precise Foot Impression
We use advanced casting techniques to capture your exact foot structure:
- Non-weight-bearing casting: Traditional plaster casting with your foot held in optimal corrected position—the gold standard for functional orthotics
- Digital scanning: Advanced 3D scanning technology for some orthotic types
- Foam impression boxes: Occasionally used for accommodative orthotics
The casting method is crucial. By capturing your foot in a corrected, non-weight-bearing position, we create orthotics that actively support proper alignment rather than simply matching your existing (problematic) foot posture.
Step 3: Orthotic Prescription
Your podiatrist writes a detailed prescription for the orthotic laboratory specifying:
- Material selection (rigid, semi-rigid, or accommodative)
- Arch height and contour
- Heel cup depth and posting angles
- Forefoot modifications and metatarsal pads
- Top cover material and cushioning layers
- Length (full-length, three-quarter, or sulcus)
- Special accommodations for corns, calluses, or deformities
Step 4: Laboratory Fabrication
Your casts are sent to our trusted orthotic laboratory where skilled technicians:
- Create positive molds from your foot impressions
- Hand-craft orthotics following your prescription exactly
- Select and apply appropriate materials and modifications
- Finish orthotics with smooth edges and quality top covers
The fabrication process typically takes 2-3 weeks. We work exclusively with laboratories that maintain the highest quality standards.
Step 5: Dispensing and Fitting
When your custom orthotics arrive, you return to our Albuquerque office for fitting. During this appointment:
- Your podiatrist carefully evaluates the fit and alignment
- You'll try the orthotics in your shoes while standing and walking
- Minor adjustments are made if needed
- You receive detailed instructions on break-in procedures
- We discuss care, maintenance, and when to seek adjustments
Step 6: Break-In Period and Follow-Up
Custom orthotics require gradual adaptation:
- Week 1: Wear orthotics 1-2 hours daily
- Week 2: Increase to 3-4 hours daily
- Week 3: Wear during most activities
- Week 4: Full-time use in appropriate footwear
A follow-up appointment 4-6 weeks after dispensing allows us to assess your progress and make refinements. Most patients require minor adjustments to achieve optimal comfort and function.
Materials and Construction Quality
The quality of custom orthotics depends heavily on materials and construction methods. At New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute, we use only premium materials proven effective through decades of clinical use.
Shell Materials
Polypropylene: The most common rigid orthotic material, offering excellent durability and biomechanical control. It can be heated and adjusted if modifications are needed.
Graphite composites: Extremely strong yet lightweight materials used for high-performance athletic orthotics. These provide superior energy return for competitive athletes.
Subortholen: A semi-rigid material that's more flexible than polypropylene, offering a balance of support and shock absorption.
EVA (Ethylene Vinyl Acetate): Soft, accommodative material used for diabetic and cushioned orthotics. Excellent shock-absorbing properties.
Top Cover Materials
The top surface that contacts your foot affects comfort and durability:
- Naugahyde: Durable, easy-to-clean synthetic material that works well for most applications
- Leather: Breathable and professional-looking for dress orthotics
- Poron: High-quality cushioning material that doesn't flatten quickly
- PPT (Plastazote): Medical-grade foam used in diabetic orthotics
Why Quality Matters
Premium materials and expert fabrication result in orthotics that:
- Maintain their shape and support for years
- Resist compression and breakdown
- Provide consistent biomechanical control
- Require fewer replacements, saving money long-term
We take pride in using only the finest materials because not all custom orthotics are created equal. The investment in quality materials pays dividends in treatment outcomes and longevity.
Care and Maintenance of Your Custom Orthotics
Proper care extends the life of your custom orthotics and ensures they continue providing optimal support:
Daily Care
- Keep them dry: Remove orthotics from shoes overnight to allow moisture to evaporate
- Clean regularly: Wipe with a damp cloth and mild soap as needed
- Rotate between shoes: If possible, have orthotics for different activities or duplicate pairs for alternating
- Check for wear: Regularly inspect for cracking, compression, or loose components
What to Avoid
- Don't machine wash: Washing machines damage materials and shape
- Avoid excessive heat: Never place orthotics on heaters, in hot cars, or direct sunlight for extended periods
- Don't flex or bend: Rigid orthotics aren't meant to be bent or twisted
- Skip household cleaners: Harsh chemicals can break down materials
When to Seek Adjustments
Contact our Albuquerque office if you experience:
- New pressure points or discomfort after the break-in period
- Increased pain in areas that were previously improving
- Orthotics shifting position in your shoes
- Visible wear or damage to materials
- Changes in your feet due to weight gain/loss, pregnancy, or medical conditions
Replacement Timeline
Most custom orthotics last 3-5 years with proper care. Consider replacement when:
- Materials show significant compression or wear
- You've experienced significant weight changes
- Your foot structure has changed
- You develop new foot conditions requiring different support
- Children's feet grow substantially
Annual check-ups with your Albuquerque podiatrist help determine when replacement is appropriate.
Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Orthotics
What do custom orthotics do?
Custom orthotics are medical devices designed to support, align, and improve foot function. They redistribute pressure evenly across your feet, correct biomechanical imbalances that cause pain, and provide cushioning to reduce stress on bones, joints, and soft tissues. By optimizing foot mechanics, custom orthotics effectively treat conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, heel pain, and numerous other foot problems. They work by positioning your feet in proper alignment, which reduces strain throughout your entire lower body.
How long do custom orthotics last?
With proper care and maintenance, custom orthotics typically last 3-5 years before requiring replacement. Lifespan depends on several factors including your activity level, body weight, the quality of materials used, and how well you care for them. Athletes and individuals who are very active may need replacement sooner, while those with lighter use often extend their orthotics' lifespan beyond five years. Regular check-ups with your Albuquerque podiatrist help monitor orthotic condition and ensure optimal performance throughout their lifetime.
Are custom orthotics worth it?
Yes, custom orthotics provide exceptional value for patients with chronic foot pain or biomechanical problems. They offer superior support compared to over-the-counter inserts because they're precisely crafted for your unique foot structure and specific condition. Many patients find custom orthotics eliminate their foot pain entirely, allowing them to return to activities they'd given up. They often prevent the need for more invasive and expensive treatments like injections or surgery. While the initial cost is higher than store-bought inserts, custom orthotics' longevity (3-5 years) and effectiveness make them highly cost-effective over time.
Do I need a podiatrist for orthotics?
Yes, seeing a board-certified podiatrist in Albuquerque is essential for truly effective custom orthotics. Podiatrists conduct comprehensive biomechanical examinations to identify the root cause of your foot pain, take precise impressions using proper casting techniques, and write detailed prescriptions specifying exact materials, posting angles, arch heights, and modifications needed for your condition. This medical expertise—combined with professional fitting and follow-up adjustments—ensures your orthotics actually correct your biomechanical problems rather than simply providing generic cushioning. Over-the-counter inserts and kiosk-generated devices cannot replicate this level of personalized care.
Will my insurance cover custom orthotics?
Many insurance plans provide partial or full coverage for custom orthotics when they're prescribed by a podiatrist for a diagnosed medical condition. Coverage varies significantly by plan and carrier. Our Albuquerque office staff will verify your specific benefits and obtain any necessary pre-authorizations. Medicare typically covers orthotics for diabetic patients meeting specific criteria. Even if your insurance doesn't cover orthotics, many patients find them worth the out-of-pocket investment given their effectiveness and longevity.
Can I wear custom orthotics in any shoes?
Custom orthotics work best in shoes with removable insoles, adequate depth, and supportive construction. Most athletic shoes, walking shoes, and boots accommodate orthotics easily. Dress shoes require specially designed slimmer orthotics. Very flat shoes like ballet flats, most high heels, and flip-flops typically cannot accommodate orthotics. During your fitting at our Albuquerque office, we'll discuss your footwear needs and may recommend specific shoe styles that work best with your orthotics. Many patients have multiple pairs of orthotics designed for different shoe types and activities.
Our Albuquerque Locations for Custom Orthotics
New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute provides expert custom orthotic services at two convenient Albuquerque locations, serving patients throughout the metro area and surrounding New Mexico communities.
Northeast Heights Office
Address: 4343 Pan American Fwy NE Ste 234, Albuquerque, NM 87107
Phone: (505) 880-1000
Services: Complete biomechanical evaluations, custom orthotic casting and fitting, diabetic foot care, sports medicine
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible with convenient parking
Our Northeast Heights podiatrists serve patients throughout northern Albuquerque, offering comprehensive foot care in a modern, comfortable setting with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment.
Westside Office
Address: 10511 Golf Course Rd NW Ste 203, Albuquerque, NM 87114
Phone: (505) 872-3333
Services: Custom orthotics, foot and ankle surgery, wound care, pediatric podiatry
Convenience: Easy access from I-40 with ample free parking
Our Westside Albuquerque office extends our orthotic services to patients on the west side of the metro area, providing the same exceptional care and advanced treatment options available at our Northeast location.
Serving the Greater Albuquerque Area
While based in Albuquerque, we welcome patients from throughout New Mexico including:
- Rio Rancho
- Santa Fe
- Los Alamos
- Bernalillo
- Corrales
- Placitas
- Edgewood
- Los Lunas
Both locations offer the same high standard of care, advanced orthotic fabrication techniques, and board-certified podiatric expertise to ensure optimal treatment outcomes.
Why Choose New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute for Custom Orthotics
- Board-certified expertise: Our Albuquerque podiatrists have extensive training and experience in biomechanics and orthotic therapy
- Gold-standard casting: We use proven non-weight-bearing casting techniques for maximum accuracy and correction
- Premium materials: Only the highest-quality orthotic materials for durability and effectiveness
- Personalized care: Every orthotic prescription is customized to your specific condition, activity level, and footwear needs
- Comprehensive approach: Orthotics combined with proper footwear recommendations, exercises, and other treatments as needed
- Professional fitting: Expert dispensing with careful fitting adjustments and follow-up care
- Convenient locations: Two Albuquerque offices with flexible scheduling and extended hours
- Insurance assistance: Knowledgeable staff to help navigate insurance coverage and benefits
Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Feet
Don't let foot pain continue limiting your activities and quality of life. Custom orthotics from New Mexico Foot & Ankle Institute provide the personalized support your feet need to function properly and feel great. Our Albuquerque podiatrists are ready to help you find relief through expertly crafted orthotic solutions.
Whether you're suffering from chronic heel pain, flat feet, or any other foot condition, custom orthotics may be the solution you've been seeking. Schedule a comprehensive evaluation today to discover how custom foot orthotics can transform your comfort and mobility.
Schedule Your Custom Orthotic Consultation
Call (505) 880-1000 for Northeast Heights | Call (505) 872-3333 for Westside