Orthotic Solutions for Foot and Lower Limb Health

Orthotics are medical devices designed to support, align, and improve the function of the foot and lower limb. By correcting abnormal mechanics when your foot hits the ground, orthotics can increase efficiency in walking, running, and daily activities. Proper orthotic support not only reduces pain in the foot and ankle but can also alleviate discomfort in the knees, hips, and lower back. At OrthoRehab Specialists, we provide three levels of orthotic care – custom, heat molded, and over the counter – tailored to your specific needs in Edina and Minneapolis.

Why Proper Orthotic Support Matters

The human foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. When any part of this complex structure moves outside its ideal alignment, it can lead to:

• Plantar fasciitis or heel pain
• Shin splints and stress fractures
• Knee pain from misalignment
• Hip and lower back strain
• Gait imbalances and fatigue

By providing the correct arch support, shock absorption, and heel stability, orthotics can:

• Distribute pressure evenly across the foot
• Reduce muscle fatigue and joint stress
• Improve balance and proprioception
• Enhance athletic performance
• Prevent injury recurrence

Types of Orthotics We Offer

We customize our orthotic offerings to match your lifestyle, activity level, and foot structure. Choose from three options:

• Custom Orthotics – Gold standard support cast directly from your feet.
• Heat Molded Orthotics – Semi-custom solution using preformed shells that are adjusted on site.
• Over the Counter Orthotics – Ready-made inserts for symptom relief and basic support.

Custom Orthotics: Precision Fit for Maximum Benefit

Custom orthotics begin with an in-office casting session. We use a wet plaster wrap to capture the exact shape of both feet in a neutral position. This mold then dries and becomes a “slipper” that is sent to our certified lab for fabrication. Key benefits include:

• Exact match to your foot geometry
• High quality materials for durability
• Adjustments based on your gait analysis and functional testing
• Optimal pressure distribution and shock absorption

Typical conditions addressed by custom orthotics include posterior tibial tendonitis, severe flat feet, and complex biomechanical faults that require precise correction.

Heat Molded Orthotics: Semi-Custom Support

Heat molded orthotics use preformed shells made of a thermoplastic material. In clinic, we:

1. Heat the shell with a specialized gun to make it pliable
2. Position the orthotic under your foot in the neutral alignment
3. Allow the material to cool and harden around your arch

This option delivers many benefits of custom devices at a lower cost. Heat molded orthotics are ideal for:

• Runners seeking extra arch support
• Patients with mild to moderate pronation
• Individuals who need a faster turnaround time

Learn more about our full range of orthotics and bracing services.

Over the Counter Orthotics: Affordable Symptom Relief

Our clinics stock high-quality over the counter inserts that provide:

• Basic arch support and cushioning
• Immediate relief for plantar fasciitis or mild overuse injuries
• Entry-level cost for patients new to orthotic care

While these options lack full customization, they can be effective as a temporary measure or for patients whose primary goal is mild symptom control. We will help you select the best insert based on your foot type and shoe style.

Conditions That Benefit from Orthotic Support

Orthotics can play a key role in managing and preventing a wide range of conditions, including:

• Plantar fasciitis and heel spurs
• Arch pain and flat feet
• Shin splints and stress fractures
• Knee pain such as patellofemoral syndrome
• Hip and lower back discomfort from faulty gait
• Diabetic foot ulcer prevention

Our therapists conduct a comprehensive gait analysis to determine how orthotics can best complement your treatment plan and other interventions such as manual therapy, therapeutic exercise, and modalities.

The Orthotic Fitting Process

At your orthotic evaluation, you can expect:

1. Medical and Activity History: We review previous injuries, surgeries, activity levels, and footwear habits.
2. Physical Examination: Assessment of foot structure, joint range of motion, muscle strength, and alignment.
3. Gait and Functional Testing: Video analysis of walking and running to pinpoint aberrant mechanics.
4. Casting or Fitting: Depending on your chosen orthotic type we take a plaster cast, heat mold a shell, or select an over the counter insert.
5. Follow-Up and Adjustment: We schedule follow up visits to fine tune orthotic trimlines, posting, and cushioning to ensure maximum comfort and effectiveness.

Integrating Orthotics into Your Rehabilitation Plan

Orthotics are most effective when combined with other physical therapy interventions. We often pair orthotic use with:

• Manual therapy for soft tissue and joint mobilization
• Targeted strengthening for intrinsic foot and lower limb muscles
• Flexibility drills to address tight calves, hamstrings, and plantar fascia
• Balance and proprioceptive training to reinforce neuromuscular control
• Home exercise programs for movement re-education

By addressing both structural and functional aspects of foot health, we help you achieve lasting improvements. Read about our manual therapy services and functional testing for further insight.

Insurance and Payment Options

We accept most major insurance plans, including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Medicare, Medica, UCare, UnitedHealthcare, Aetna, and PreferredOne. Coverage for custom orthotics varies by plan, so we recommend:

1. Contacting our administrative team to verify in-network status and coverage limits.
2. Reviewing your insurance portal for details on orthotic benefits, copays, and deductibles.
3. Exploring self-pay or payment plan options for non-covered services.

Visit our Insurance & Payment Options page to learn more and ensure a smooth billing experience.

Getting Started at Our Edina and Minneapolis Clinics

To begin your orthotic journey, follow these simple steps:

1. Schedule an Assessment: Call Edina at 952.922.0330 or Minneapolis at 612.339.2041, or book online.
2. Complete a Detailed Evaluation: Your therapist will perform the history, exam, and gait analysis needed to design your orthotic device.
3. Select Your Orthotic Type: Choose custom, heat molded, or over the counter based on your goals, budget, and condition.
4. Attend Follow-Up Visits: We refine the fit and posting of your orthotics to ensure comfort and effectiveness.
5. Integrate Orthotics into Daily Life: Wear your new orthotics in supportive footwear, and follow your home exercise program to maximize benefits.

With proper orthotic support, you can correct faulty mechanics, reduce pain, and improve function from the foot to the back. Contact OrthoRehab Specialists today to take the first step toward greater comfort and mobility.