Custom Biomechanical Orthotic Devices

Custom Biomechanical Orthotic Devices: Optimizing Movement & Reducing Pain

At ProMotion Physical Therapy, we specialize in the evaluation and design of custom biomechanical orthotic devices to address and alleviate lower extremity neuromuscular-skeletal disorders. These devices are not just generic arch supports but highly tailored solutions that promote optimal foot function, enhance mobility, and reduce pain throughout the body. Our expert-led team of physical therapists ensures that each orthotic device is specifically crafted to meet the unique needs of each patient.

Why Choose Custom Biomechanical Orthotic Devices?

Many injuries we treat are sustained or worsened by improper movement patterns or foot posture. Whether you’re standing, walking, running, or performing daily activities, foot mechanics play a critical role in maintaining proper alignment and preventing stress on muscles and joints. When the foot’s structure or function is compromised, it can lead to pain in areas beyond the feet, such as the shins, knees, hips, and lower back.

Our team has advanced knowledge in the biomechanics of movement and foot function. We are skilled at identifying abnormalities in how you move and how these contribute to pain or injury. This is where custom orthotic devices come in — they are designed to support your body’s unique needs and restore proper function.

What Are Custom Biomechanical Orthotics?

While many people think of “orthotics” as simple shoe inserts, custom biomechanical orthotic devices go far beyond that. They are medical-grade devices that are custom-crafted based on an in-depth analysis of your foot mechanics and posture. Here’s a breakdown of our process for designing these orthotics:

  1. Comprehensive Assessment

The first step in orthotic therapy is a thorough evaluation of your walking mechanics, foot posture, and foot type. Our physical therapists, including Michael Kane — a nationally recognized expert in foot biomechanics — will assess how well your feet react to the movements of your legs, hips, and lower back. This comprehensive approach ensures that the orthotic device supports your entire kinetic chain.

  1. Custom Foot Mold

Once the evaluation is complete, we take a neutral cast impression of your feet. This slipper cast provides a precise model of your foot structure, capturing every contour necessary to create a truly customized orthotic.

  1. Orthotic Design & Fabrication

The mold is then sent to a biomechanical laboratory where the orthotic is custom-fabricated using advanced materials such as plastics, foams, graphite, or fiberglass. The materials and design are selected based on your specific needs, including your height, weight, activity level, and shoe wear preferences.

The result is a custom biomechanical orthotic device that is designed to optimize the function of your feet and lower extremities, reduce pain, and improve movement.

How Do Custom Orthotics Work?

Custom orthotics work by controlling abnormal stresses on the tissues in your feet and lower extremities. Here’s how they help:

  1. Redistribution of Forces

Orthotics help to redistribute forces across the foot, reducing abnormal loads on injured or dysfunctional tissues. This allows tissues to heal while preventing further injury.

  1. Biomechanical Correction

By altering the surface geometry, contour, and stiffness of the orthotic, we can correct abnormal motion, improve foot alignment, and optimize the forces generated by the muscles in your legs and feet. This, in turn, enhances overall movement mechanics.

  1. Stress and Shock Reduction

Custom orthotics can be designed with various shock absorption properties to minimize the impact forces generated during activities like walking or running. This reduces the stress on your joints, muscles, and tendons, promoting a quicker recovery.

Benefits of Custom Biomechanical Orthotics

  • Pain Relief: Alleviate pain in the feet, shins, knees, hips, and lower back.
  • Improved Function: Promote proper foot and lower extremity function, optimizing movement mechanics.
  • Injury Prevention: Reduce the risk of injury by correcting abnormal foot mechanics.
  • Enhanced Mobility: Improve balance, gait, and overall mobility with a device customized to your unique anatomy.
  • Durable & Versatile: Custom orthotics are built for long-lasting use and can be worn in most shoes without modification.

Why Choose ProMotion Physical Therapy for Custom Orthotic Devices?

At ProMotion, we have the expertise to design custom orthotics that go beyond simple foot support. Physical therapist Michael Kane is a nationally recognized leader in foot and lower extremity biomechanics and has over 20 years of experience designing and teaching courses on the application of biomechanical orthotic devices. His course, Orthotic Reaction: The Art and Science of Locomotor Biomechanics and Orthotics, has guided therapists across the country in designing effective orthotic solutions.

Our therapists understand how foot mechanics influence your entire body, and we work closely with you to design custom orthotics that target the root causes of pain and dysfunction. By incorporating physical therapy and custom orthotic design, we ensure a holistic approach to your recovery and long-term wellness.

Take the Next Step Toward Pain-Free Movement

If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort in your feet, legs, or lower back, custom biomechanical orthotics may be the solution you need. Contact ProMotion Physical Therapy today to schedule an evaluation and learn more about how custom orthotics can help you move better and live pain-free.