Orthotics & Bracing for Ankle & Foot Pain for Residents of New Jersey

Reviewed by AOSMI’s board-certified foot and ankle surgeons, Dr. Allison DeWaters, and Dr. Wesley Nesbit.

Most people suffer from a foot or ankle ailment at some point in their lives, but for some, there is a way to eliminate or keep those conditions under control through orthotics and bracing. Orthotics and bracing can help align and support the foot or ankle, prevent or correct deformities, and improve the overall function of the foot or ankle.

What are Orthotics and Bracing of the Foot and Ankle?

Orthotics are custom-made insoles designed to alleviate foot pain, correct biomechanical issues, and provide support for conditions like plantar fasciitis. They aim to relieve pain, correct foot mechanics, and offer additional support for various foot conditions. The process involves a thorough assessment, customization based on the patient’s needs, and fitting the orthotics into the shoes. On the other hand, bracing involves external support devices like braces or splints to stabilize the foot and ankle, commonly used after injuries, to prevent further damage, and for post-surgical support. Bracing decisions are based on a diagnosis, and fitting and instruction are provided to ensure proper use.

Orthotics & Bracing as Conservative Treatment

At AOSMI, our doctors employ non-surgical conservative treatment as a first measure whenever possible when treating foot or ankle conditions, often utilizing bracing and orthotics. Orthotics and bracing are used as a treatment for a wide range of ankle and foot ailments, including:

• Hammer toes: Hammer toes involve the abnormal bending of the middle joint in a toe, causing it to resemble a hammer. This condition can result in pain, corns, and calluses due to increased pressure on the affected toe, impacting both the foot’s appearance and function.
• Adult and pediatric flatfoot: Adult and pediatric flatfoot is characterized by the flattening of the arch of the foot, impacting its shock-absorbing capabilities. This can lead to pain, swelling, and altered gait patterns, affecting overall foot and ankle stability and functionality.
• Corns and calluses: Corns and calluses are thickened, hardened layers of skin that form in response to friction or pressure. These conditions often develop on the feet due to ill-fitting shoes or abnormal foot mechanics, causing discomfort and potential pain while impacting the foot’s skin integrity.
• Bunions: Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, causing it to deviate towards the other toes. This condition can lead to pain, inflammation, and altered toe alignment, affecting both the aesthetics and functionality of the foot. 
• Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament connecting the heel to the front of the foot. This condition results in heel pain, especially during the first steps in the morning, impacting the foot’s ability to bear weight and causing discomfort.
• Sprains and Strains: Sprains involve the stretching or tearing of ligaments, while strains involve damage to muscles or tendons. These injuries often result from trauma or overuse, causing pain, swelling, and reduced range of motion, affecting the foot and ankle’s overall stability.
• Athletic Injuries, such as Stress Fractures and Ankle Instability: Athletic injuries encompass a range of conditions, including stress fractures and ankle instability, commonly seen in sports. Stress fractures result from repetitive impact, leading to small cracks in the bone, while ankle instability involves recurring sprains, impacting the foot’s structural integrity and stability during physical activity.
• Diabetic Foot Problems: Diabetic foot problems can include neuropathy, poor circulation, and foot ulcers, often stemming from diabetes-related complications. These issues impact sensation, wound healing, and overall foot health, posing significant risks for infections and other serious complications. Regular podiatric care is crucial for diabetic individuals to prevent and manage these problems.

Surgical Procedures for Ankle and Foot Pain

In some cases, orthotics and bracing techniques may not be enough to treat a foot or ankle injury effectively. When all conservative treatment options have been exhausted and pain still exists, surgery could be recommended to you by your orthopedic doctor. If surgery is required, our board-certified foot and ankle orthopedic surgeons will develop a plan designed to treat your ankle or foot condition best and promote optimal recovery. After surgery, bracing and orthotics as well as physical therapy, may be used to both stabilize and immobilize the injury to promote proper healing during your recovery process.

Find Orthotics & Bracing Orthopedic Treatment Near You

Here at Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute (AOSMI), we are proud to offer treatment options to residents of New Jersey suffering from ankle and foot pain. Our board-certified orthopedic doctors and surgeons will work together with your podiatrist to create the treatment plan that will work best for you. Our orthopedic podiatry care specialists will provide comprehensive guidance for you every step of the way so that you can feel confident and comfortable while receiving care for your foot or ankle condition.

If you would like to learn more about the orthotics and bracing treatments available at AOSMI to both adults and children in New Jersey, then contact us today. We have multiple locations across the state to provide our patients with the best and most convenient care possible.

Frequently Asked Questions about Orthotics & Bracing

What are podiatry orthotics?

Podiatry orthotics are custom-made insoles designed by podiatrists to address various foot conditions. These inserts provide support, correct biomechanical issues, and alleviate pain, catering to individualized needs.

What are orthotic braces used for?

Orthotic braces are utilized to stabilize the foot and ankle, providing support during the healing process after injuries like fractures or sprains. They can also be prescribed for conditions such as ankle instability, offering external support to prevent further damage.

Is an orthotic the same as a brace?

No, orthotics and braces serve different purposes. Orthotics are custom-made insoles designed to support and improve foot function, while braces are external support devices, often used to stabilize the foot and ankle after injuries or surgeries.

Should I go to a podiatrist for orthotics?

Yes, consulting a podiatrist for orthotics is recommended. Podiatrists are trained to assess foot mechanics and conditions, ensuring that custom orthotics are tailored to address specific issues and provide the most effective support.

When should you not wear orthotics?

Orthotics should be avoided in certain situations, such as when they cause discomfort or exacerbate pain. Additionally, individuals should consult their podiatrist before using orthotics if they experience new or worsening symptoms, as inappropriate use may lead to complications.