For many patients at the Center for Sports Medicine, orthotic devices have proven to be an efficient method of injury rehabilitation as well as long-term injury prevention. As a treatment device, previous studies have shown 93% of patients have had a positive response to orthotic devices. We have found 60-70% of patients have excellent response to their initially prescribed devices. This leaves 30-40% of patients needing changes in their initial prescription before a good response is attained. The initial prescription may have too much support in an area, not enough support, not enough cushion, etc. Your doctor is skilled at making most minor corrections to the orthotic devices initially prescribed. But, if in follow-up, it becomes obvious that a significant change is necessary, the doctor may use the molds (foot impressions) you have stored to make more major changes. The 6 common steps in prescribing an orthotic device are:

• Gait Evaluation and Working Diagnosis
• Casting for Inserts
• Dispense of Inserts and Possible Modifications
• Initial Follow-Up Visit
• 2nd Follow-Up Visit and Possible Modifications
• 3rd Follow-Up Visit and Possible Modifications

Since your doctor is also treating your injury, with each visit there will be an evaluation of your injury status, changes in your treatment as necessary, and modifications to your orthotic devices as necessary after you receive them.

Important Notice:

We cannot give medical advice about how to treat a specific injury. While we may discuss general exercises to prevent sports injuries and also may recommend methods that can be effective in treating sports injuries, not all exercises are designed for all individuals or problems. A physician should be consulted before starting any exercise program. If you are experiencing any severe pain or discomfort, it is particularly important to seek the advice of a knowledgeable physician and get a specific diagnosis and management plan for your problem. The remedies outlined here are general recommendations and are not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.