Shoe inserts called orthoticsfoot orthoses are often used for a painful foot condition called plantar fasciitis (PF). PF is an inflammation of the thick connective tissue (plantar fascia) along the bottom of the foot.

There are three types of orthotics available: over-the-counter (also known as off-the-shelf), prefabricated, and customized. Prefabricated orthotics are immediately ready for use but require some fitting. The fitting is usually done by a podiatrist, orthotist, or physical therapist.

Customized orthotics are made specifically for each patient. The cost is far greater for customized orthotics compared to off-the-shelf or prefabricated devices. The advantage of customized orthotics is having an insert that corrects the problem and one that will last much longer.

In this study, three groups of patients with PF were compared after treatment with one of the three orthotics. The first group (44 patients) received a prefabricated orthotic. Group two (46 patients) was measured and fitted with a customized insert. The third group (46 patients) received a sham (fake) foot orthotic.

Results were reported at three and 12 months. Outcomes were measured using pain and function. The authors report that prefabricated or customized orthoses improved pain and function in the short-term. There were no differences between the three groups after 12 months.

The authors conclude that foot orthotics are a useful tool in managing short-term pain and loss of function in PF. Off-the-shelf or over-the-counter inserts are much less expensive and work as well as the more costly custom inserts.

K. B. Landorf et al. Customized or Prefabricated Foot Orthoses Improved Function Only in the Short Term in Patients with Plantar Fasciitis. In The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery. February 2007. Vol. 89-A. No. 2. Pp. 458.

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