Waking up to that sharp, stabbing pain in your heel is no way to start the day. If you’ve been dealing with plantar fasciitis, you know how frustrating it can be—every step feels like a reminder that something isn’t right.
You may have tried stretching, icing, or changing your shoes, only to find the relief is temporary at best. That’s because treating the symptoms isn’t the same as correcting the root cause.
Often, the real issue lies in how your feet support your body. When your arches aren’t properly aligned, it can place constant strain on your plantar fascia, keeping the pain coming back no matter what you try.
Custom orthotics are designed to fix that—by supporting your foot’s natural structure and correcting the imbalances that keep aggravating the tissue.
If you’re tired of chasing short-term relief and ready to take real steps toward healing, understanding the power of custom orthotics could be the breakthrough you’ve been waiting for.
Understanding custom orthotics and how they function
Custom orthotics can be a key treatment for plantar fasciitis because they address the underlying biomechanical issues in your feet that cause the condition.
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Biomechanical correction and arch support
Plantar fasciitis often stems from faulty foot mechanics, such as overpronation (excessive inward rolling) or having very flat feet or high arches. Custom orthotics are moulded precisely to your feet, providing targeted support to:
- Maintain the foot’s proper alignment.
- Support your unique arch structure (often the medial longitudinal arch), which reduces strain and tension on the plantar fascia ligament.
- Control excessive pronation or supination (outward rolling), which are movements that stretch and stress the plantar fascia.
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Even pressure and weight distribution
They redistribute your body weight and the impact of walking or standing more evenly across the entire foot. This prevents excessive, concentrated pressure on the heel area where the plantar fascia attaches, which is the site of most pain.
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Shock absorption and cushioning
Custom devices often use materials that provide superior shock absorption, particularly in the heel cup. This protects the plantar fascia from the repetitive impact forces that occur with every step, allowing the inflamed tissue to rest and heal.
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Targeted and personalised fit
Unlike generic, over-the-counter insoles, custom orthotics are created from a precise mould or 3D scan of your feet. This personalised fit is essential because it ensures the support and corrections are placed exactly where your unique foot structure and condition require them, leading to:
- Maximum comfort and long-term compliance (you’re more likely to wear them).
- More effective and consistent relief from symptoms.
- Correction of the root cause can reduce the risk of the condition returning.
The Frankston clinic of The Heel Centre
The Frankston clinic of The Heel Centre is well-equipped for treating plantar fasciitis through a combination of advanced technology and comprehensive treatment options.
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Advanced diagnostic tools
The clinic utilises technology for precise diagnosis and assessment, including:
- Diagnostic ultrasound: A valuable tool for a more precise diagnosis of the cause of heel pain, allowing the practitioner to view the plantar fascia tissue.
- Video gait analysis: Thorough biomechanical assessments, often including video gait analysis, are used to identify movement issues and abnormalities (like overpronation) that contribute to the pain, which is crucial for guiding effective treatment and custom orthotic design.
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Custom orthotic technology
- Custom 3D-scanned Orthotics: Using advanced 3D laser scanning technology allows for the creation of orthotics that are precisely tailored to the unique structure and biomechanics of the patient’s foot, ensuring the best possible support and pressure relief.
- Medical-grade prefabricated options: They also provide off-the-shelf options when appropriate.
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Comprehensive treatment modalities
The clinic offers a holistic approach that goes beyond just orthotics, which is critical for a full recovery:
- Shockwave therapy (radial pressure wave): A non-invasive treatment that uses high-energy sound waves to stimulate blood flow and promote healing in chronic plantar fasciitis cases that haven’t responded to conservative methods.
- Footwear advice and modifications: Guidance on the best types of shoes to support the foot and reduce strain.
- Stretching and strengthening exercises: Prescribing targeted exercises to improve flexibility and strengthen supporting muscles.
This combination of advanced diagnostic imaging, customised orthotic manufacturing capabilities, and a range of non-invasive therapies ensures a personalised and effective treatment plan for plantar fasciitis.
Final thoughts
In essence, custom orthotics provide the foundation for healing by reducing the stress on the plantar fascia ligament during daily activities, allowing the tissue to recover.
They are often used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may also include stretching, physiotherapy, and other conservative measures.
The Frankston clinic is well-equipped with several podiatry clinics that offer advanced diagnostic equipment and treatments, including custom 3D-scanned orthotics and shockwave therapy.
Book an appointment with one of our podiatrists to get help and support for your heels, ankles and lower legs so you can feel and move better.
