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Orthotics Specialist

Podiatric Foot & Ankle Specialist located in Renton, WA

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Orthotics

Your feet are a complex body part that gives you the ability to walk, run, and jump while supporting the weight of your body. Problems with the structure or function of your foot may affect mobility or cause pain in your foot or other parts of your body. Orthotics are medical devices that support foot mechanics to improve function. At Roka Foot and Ankle Centers in Renton, Washington, Jacqueline Buckley, DPM, offers custom orthotics to improve the biomechanical operation of your foot. To learn more about orthotics, call the office or schedule an appointment online today.

Orthotics Q & A

What are orthotics?

Orthotics are a type of medical device that supports the structure and function of your feet. Dr. Buckley is an experienced and skilled podiatrist who provides custom-made orthotics to improve the biomechanics of your feet or how the bones work.

There are two types of orthotics:

Functional orthotics

Functional orthotics, also known as rigid orthotics, are medical devices that control abnormal foot mechanics. 

Dr. Buckley uses semi-rigid material, such as plastic or graphite, to make these orthotics. She may recommend functional orthotics to ease foot pain or treat an injury. 

Accommodative orthotics

Accommodative orthotics are made from softer material and provide comfort and support. Dr. Buckley may recommend accommodative orthotics as part of your diabetic foot care to reduce the risk of blisters or cuts.

Who needs orthotics?

Dr. Buckley performs a comprehensive evaluation when you come in for podiatry care to determine the best treatment for you. She prescribes orthotics to assist with the biomechanical function of the foot.

You may need orthotics if you have a foot condition such as:

  • Flat feet
  • High arch
  • Hammertoe
  • Bunions
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Morton’s neuroma
  • Heel pain

Dr. Buckley may recommend custom orthotics if your abnormal foot mechanics place too much stress on other weight-bearing joints, such as your knees or back. 

Athletes may need orthotics to treat sports injuries such as shin splints or runner’s knee. Orthotics for athletes may also prevent injuries.

Dr. Buckley specializes in pediatric podiatry and may recommend orthotics for her young patients to treat a pediatric foot problem.

How do I get orthotics?

Dr. Buckley performs a comprehensive podiatry exam to help prepare your orthotics. During your visit, she asks detailed questions about your daily activities, the shoes you wear, and your concerns.

Dr. Buckley examines your feet and has you stand and walk so she can assess your gait and the movement of your feet. 

Based on the information gathered during your evaluation, Dr. Buckley determines what orthotics will be the best fit for you. She uses advanced technology to create molds of your feet, which she uses to make your custom orthotics.

To learn more about custom orthotics and how they may benefit you, call Roka Foot and Ankle Centers or schedule a consultation online today.