What are the benefits of wearing custom orthotics and who would benefit the most from wearing them? Not everyone needs custom orthotics. There are over 20 different foot types, after all, but people with relatively flat feet or higher arches will often function better with them, particularly after 40 years of age. Why?

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Orthotics generally control the Sub Talar Joint, located below the ankle and the heel bone. Many people have an imbalance with “overpronating” at this joint, which means the ankle and arch collapse and roll inwards too much. Common conditions from pronation overuse are plantar fasciitis, tendonitis and knee pain. Orthotics provide the needed foot control and arch support to relieve these conditions, in addition to stretching and strengthening exercises.

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Another type of foot that often benefits from orthotics is the Cavus foot, or one with a high arch and rigid structure. It’s not uncommon for patients who have this foot type to “over supinate”, meaning their feet place too much weight on the outside of the foot and ankle. Supination results in rolled or sprained ankles, neuromas, and tendonitis. This foot type responds best to a softer orthotic and lateral support to reduce what is called ‘lateral column overload’.

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Both foot types can also have forefoot conditions such as bunions and metatarsal area pain, which also usually respond well to orthotic therapy.