some questions re orthotics

some questions re orthotics

Amy Boyle

8/22/2006

Hi. I'm looking for some advice on getting new orthotics.

I'm an overpronater with bunion growth and I haven't had orthotics in
several years. I think my budget (and pain) has gotten to a point where I
can get a new pair, but I'm wondering how to go about it/ what questions to
ask to get the best resuts. I have familly members who have been
dissatisfied with different orthotic devices, and have had some trouble in
the past myself.

Currently, I have an appointment with a podiatrist in a small network of
doctors that specialize in foot and ankle. They claim they will adjust the
orthotics if I have any pain or feel they don't fit correctly. I found them
after searching several options online, but I've never seen this doctor
before, and am not sure what to ask to feel confident this was the best
choice. My other concern is regarding rigidity. My last pair seemed very
hard, and I had a lot of heel pain during athletic activity.

I guess my questions are these: Is there a better way to effectively
research a podiatrist or a better way to go about this? Are there any
questions I should ask about orthotic material or manufacring? What is the
best way to alleviate heel pain on a rigid orthotic? Oh, and this will all
be out of pocket. So I'm looking for the best solution that will still spare
unnecessary expense.

Thank you so much for your help. I hate feeling like I'm flying blind into
all of this, and I sincerely appreciate any advice you can give me.

-Amy Boyle (layperson:)