Foot shape isn’t one-size-fits-all, and your orthotics shouldn’t be either. Whether you have flat feet, high arches, or something in between, the wrong support can lead to ongoing discomfort and poor foot function.
At Paragon Podiatry, we provide custom orthotics designed to support the unique contours of your feet. Our expert podiatrists in Manhattan, East Setauket, and the Bronx use advanced gait analysis and digital fitting methods to prescribe orthotics that alleviate pain, improve posture, and support long-term foot health. If you’re dealing with foot pain, joint discomfort, or chronic arch issues, schedule your visit today and let us help you find the right solution.
In this blog, we’ll break down how orthotics adjust to different foot shapes, highlight the benefits of custom-made devices, and explain how the fitting process works.
Understanding Different Foot Shapes and Their Challenges
Every foot is different—and so are the problems that can arise when they’re not properly supported. Foot shape plays a significant role in alignment, balance, and how the body absorbs impact.
Flat Feet
Also called fallen arches, flat feet occur when the foot’s natural arch collapses, often causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This can lead to:
- Overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot)
- Knee and leg pain
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Reduced shock absorption
Orthotics for flat feet are designed to lift the arch, support the heel, and stabilize the ankle, restoring proper foot alignment and distributing pressure more evenly.
High Arches
People with high arches, or cavus feet, may experience too little shock absorption. This often results in:
- Heel pain from poor cushioning
- Strain on the Achilles tendon
- Imbalance or instability
- Calluses or pressure at the ball of the foot and heel
Orthotics for high arches are designed to provide essential arch support and extra cushioning to improve foot stability and reduce pressure points
Both foot types can contribute to chronic pain, joint problems, and poor posture if not addressed. That’s why choosing the right custom foot orthotics is key to improving foot function and overall health.
Neutral Arches
Even those with “normal” or neutral arches can face problems due to biomechanical imbalances, overuse, or age-related changes in foot structure. Challenges may include:
- General foot fatigue during long periods of standing
- Mild pronation or supination (inward/outward rolling)
- Early signs of heel pain or arch strain
Custom orthotics can help maintain optimal alignment, absorb shock, and prevent future injury, even when no major foot deformity is present.
The Benefits of Custom Orthotics vs. Generic Inserts
Unlike generic shoe inserts found in retail stores, custom orthotics provide:
- Precise Fit: Custom orthotics are designed based on a complete evaluation of your foot structure, gait, and medical history. They fit your foot like a glove, ensuring targeted relief.
- Specific Correction: Whether you have flat arches, inward rolling, or high-impact pressure zones, prescription orthotics are built to treat the root cause of pain, not just the symptoms.
- Enhanced Comfort: Custom materials—including soft layers, semi-rigid material, and heel cups—are selected to match your activity level and comfort preferences.
- Long-Term Benefits: Over time, functional orthotics improve your gait, reduce stress on joints, and help prevent future injuries like shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, or ankle problems.
For those with age-related thinning of the heel’s natural fat pads or recurring heel pain, custom orthotics provide extra cushioning and stability not found in over-the-counter options.
The Custom Orthotics Fitting Process
At Paragon Podiatry, creating custom-made orthotics begins with a detailed clinical assessment. Here’s what you can expect:
1. Gait and Posture Analysis
We examine how you walk and stand, noting any imbalances or abnormal movement patterns that could contribute to pain.
2. Physical Exam
We assess your foot’s arch, alignment, and pressure points. For some patients, we may evaluate how the lower leg and ankle move in relation to the foot.
3. Digital or Plaster Mold Creation
To ensure an exact fit, we capture a 3D impression of your feet using either a plaster mold or computerized foot analysis. This becomes the template for your orthotics.
4. Custom Fabrication
Orthotics are made using medical-grade materials tailored to your lifestyle, whether you need extra shock absorption, arch support, or support for specific foot conditions like plantar fasciitis.
5. Follow-Up and Adjustment
As your body adapts, we’ll provide guidance and make adjustments as needed. Our goal is to deliver orthotics that are not only supportive but also pain-free to wear across all your daily activities—from walking to playing sports.
Why Choose Paragon Podiatry for Your Custom Orthotics?
At Paragon Podiatry, we blend advanced diagnostic tools with hands-on expertise to create custom foot orthotics that truly work.
What sets us apart:
- Board-Certified Specialists: Our team is experienced in orthotics for feet of all shapes and conditions, including flat feet and high arches
- Digital Precision: We use computerized gait analysis and foot scanning for accurate assessments
- Multiple Locations: Get care close to home in Manhattan, East Setauket, or the Bronx
- Long-Term Support: We offer ongoing care to ensure your orthotics evolve with your needs
- Versatile Solutions: Orthotics that work with everything from dress shoes to athletic footwear
Whether you’re dealing with leg pain, recovering from injury, or just looking for better foot support, we’ll guide you toward long-term comfort and health.
Experience the Support Your Feet Deserve
Your feet deserve the right support, especially if you’ve been dealing with discomfort, poor posture, or foot conditions like plantar fasciitis. With custom-made orthotics from Paragon Podiatry, you can relieve pain, restore alignment, and protect your feet with every step.
Book an appointment online to meet with our podiatry team in Manhattan, East Setauket, or the Bronx. Discover how custom orthotics can change the way you move.
