Orthotics are specially designed insoles placed inside footwear to support, align, and improve the function of the foot and lower limb. Whether you are suffering from heel pain, flat feet, sports injuries, or long-term lower-limb conditions, orthotics can be a highly effective, non-invasive treatment.
At Deal Podiatry in Deal, Kent, our HCPC-registered podiatrists carry out a thorough biomechanical assessment before prescribing any orthotic device. This ensures the device is tailored precisely to your foot structure, gait pattern, and clinical needs — rather than an off-the-shelf product that may not address the underlying problem.
Types of Orthotics We Provide
Custom functional orthotics – Made from a cast or 3D scan of your foot, these devices are fabricated to your exact prescription and foot shape, providing precise biomechanical correction.
Prefabricated orthotics – High-quality, clinically selected off-the-shelf insoles that can be trimmed and adapted to suit your foot. A cost-effective option for many common presentations.
Accommodative orthotics – Soft, cushioning devices designed to offload pressure and protect vulnerable areas, particularly for diabetic patients or those with painful foot deformities.
Sports orthotics – Designed for use in athletic footwear, these orthotics address the increased loads and demands of sport and physical activity.
Children's orthotics – Paediatric orthotics to support developing feet, address flat feet, in-toeing, and other childhood gait abnormalities.
Conditions Treated with Orthotics
Plantar fasciitis & heel pain – Orthotics offload the plantar fascia and redistribute pressure away from the heel.
Flat feet – Arch support corrects the inward rolling of the foot and reduces strain on the ankle, knee, and hip.
High arches (supination) – Cushioning orthotics absorb shock and improve stability in high-arched feet.
Metatarsalgia – Metatarsal padding and orthotics redistribute forefoot pressure to relieve ball-of-foot pain.
Achilles tendinopathy – Heel raises reduce tension on the Achilles tendon during the recovery phase.
Knee & hip pain – Correcting abnormal foot mechanics can significantly reduce pain higher up the kinetic chain.
Leg length discrepancy – Heel raises compensate for differences in leg length, reducing the risk of compensatory injuries.
Diabetic foot care – Pressure-relieving insoles protect vulnerable areas and reduce the risk of ulceration.
What to Expect at Your Assessment
A biomechanical assessment at Deal Podiatry is a comprehensive evaluation of how your feet and lower limbs function during standing and walking. It forms the foundation of any orthotic prescription.
Medical history & symptom review – We discuss your symptoms, footwear, activity levels, and relevant medical history.
Static assessment – Examination of foot posture, joint range of motion, muscle strength, and leg length in a standing position.
Gait analysis – Observation of your walking pattern to identify compensatory movements and areas of excess pressure.
Prescription & manufacture – Your orthotic is prescribed to your individual needs and either fabricated in-house or sent to a specialist laboratory.
Follow-up & review – We review the fit and outcome of the device after a period of wear and make any adjustments needed.
How Long Will Orthotics Last?
Prefabricated orthotics typically last one to two years with regular use. Custom orthotics are more durable and may last three to five years, depending on the materials used and intensity of wear. Your podiatrist will advise on when a review or replacement is appropriate. Children's orthotics may need replacing more frequently as their feet grow.
Footwear Advice
Orthotics work best when paired with appropriate footwear. Our podiatrists will advise you on what to look for in a shoe — including adequate depth, a removable insole, and sufficient support — to ensure your orthotic performs as intended. We can also give guidance on trainers, work footwear, and dress shoes.
Conditions Commonly Treated With Orthotics
Our podiatrists at Deal Podiatry prescribe custom and prefabricated orthotics for a range of foot and lower limb conditions in Deal, Kent.
Book an Orthotics Assessment at Deal Podiatry
If foot, heel, knee, or lower-back pain is affecting your daily life, custom orthotics could make a significant difference. Book a biomechanical assessment with our expert podiatrists in Deal, Kent.