Quick guide
This page provides general health information and does not diagnose an individual condition. Persistent, worsening or concerning symptoms should be assessed by an appropriately qualified health professional.
This page provides general health information and does not diagnose an individual condition. Persistent, worsening or concerning symptoms should be assessed by an appropriately qualified health professional.
It may be worth considering when…
- Persistent symptoms require changing pressure or load through the foot.
- Foot shape, deformity or pressure pattern needs accommodation an off-the-shelf device cannot provide well.
- Specific design features or materials are needed to achieve a defined treatment goal.
- A prefabricated device has been tried appropriately but does not provide the required fit, control or pressure relief.
What is important to understand
- Custom does not automatically mean better.
- A suitable prefabricated orthotic, footwear change, exercise program or load-management plan may be enough for many conditions.
- A good prescription should begin with a diagnosis and treatment goal.
- The device must work with the shoes and activities you actually use.
When not to wait
Acute injury, infection or unexplained progressive pain should be assessed before focusing on orthotics.
Acute injury, infection or unexplained progressive pain should be assessed before focusing on orthotics.
The Footpath Health approach
Footpath Health is designed to help you move from a symptom or question toward an appropriate next step without pretending that an online article can make an individual diagnosis. Sometimes that next step is self-management; sometimes it is podiatry, physiotherapy or GP assessment; and sometimes imaging or specialist care is appropriate.
Still not sure what the right next step is?
Tell Footpath Health what is bothering you and we can help guide you towards the most appropriate type of healthcare professional.
Start the Footpath Health assessment →