Step Right: What to Know Before You Buy Foot Orthotics
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What Are Foot Orthotics?
Foot orthotics are specialized devices that fit discreetly inside your shoes. They’re designed to support, align, and improve foot function while addressing various issues in the feet and lower limbs.
When used alongside proper footwear, orthotics can provide relief from:
- Heel pain
- Arch pain
- Forefoot pain
- Shin splints
- Knee discomfort
They can also be beneficial for individuals managing chronic conditions like diabetes or arthritis, helping to alleviate related pain and complications.
When Orthotics Might Be a Smart Solution
Custom foot orthotics can be a game-changer if you:
- Experience ongoing discomfort in your feet, knees, or lower legs
- Have postural alignment concerns
- Are dealing with specific health-related foot issues
When prescribed and properly fitted, orthotics are tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle, making everyday movement more comfortable and supportive.
Red Flags to Avoid When Purchasing Orthotics
Not all orthotic providers are equal—and some situations should make you think twice before buying:
Avoid:
- Unqualified Dispensers: If the provider can’t modify the orthotics themselves, they may lack specialized training.
- Pop-Up Exhibits or Home Shows: These setups often don’t provide reliable service—or a way to return items if needed.
- Malls or Internet Offers: Short-term booths or online deals might seem convenient but can lack proper fitting and aftercare.
- Mass Screenings: Providers who offer orthotics to an entire family without individual assessments are cutting corners.
- Offers for Children Under 5 Without Medical Input: Custom orthotics for very young children are uncommon and should be guided by a medical doctor or pediatric specialist.
- Practitioners Ignoring Your Footwear: Good orthotics work best in properly fitted, supportive shoes that match your lifestyle.
- Gimmicky Promotions: Offers like “2 for 1” or “free gift with purchase” are not allowed under most ethical codes for licensed providers.
Step with Confidence
Your feet deserve expert care. If you're considering foot orthotics, make sure you're getting them from a qualified professional who evaluates your needs individually and prioritizes your long-term foot health.
Need help finding the right orthotics provider? Contact us today for trusted guidance and support.
Posted in:Orthobility BracingOrthotics |
Support for Every Shoulder Injury
Shoulder injuries can happen to anyone—whether you're diving for a ball during a game, taking a tumble, or simply overusing your arm. Common issues include:
- Strains and sprains
- Torn rotator cuff
- Dislocated shoulder
- Shoulder instability
If you're experiencing shoulder pain, the first step is to rest and limit movement. Immobilizing the area and wearing a shoulder brace can help you stay comfortable while waiting for a diagnosis or starting your treatment plan.
Types of Shoulder Braces and What They’re For
Not all shoulder braces are created equal. Here's a breakdown of common types and when they’re most helpful:

Shoulder Stabilizer
Perfect for both post-surgery recovery and return-to-sport protection, a shoulder stabilizer limits your range of motion and guards the AC joint against further injury. These braces are useful for:
- Dislocations
- Rotator cuff tears
- AC separations
- Muscle strains

Sling
A classic in post-op care, a sling helps keep your shoulder immobilized and reduces the risk of further damage. It’s a go-to choice for:
- Surgical recovery
- Significant shoulder trauma
- Short-term immobilization

Posture Support
This lightweight brace is worn while sitting, working, or during light activity. It gently pulls your shoulders back and aligns the clavicle to:
- Improve posture
- Relieve neck and shoulder tension
- Support clavicle recovery from strain or trauma
You can wear it over or under clothes, and its adjustable design ensures a comfortable, customized fit.
Don’t Ignore Shoulder Pain
If your shoulder is sore, stiff, or unstable, don’t push through the pain—see a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Based on your condition, they might recommend a specific shoulder brace to aid in healing and keep you safely supported. And if you’re hoping to get back into sports or everyday activities, using the right brace will help reduce your risk of re-injury.
Need help finding the right shoulder brace? Reach out to us today—we’re here to support your recovery every step of the way.
Posted in:shoulder bracingshoulder immobilizerBrace |
HIGGY BEARS & SCOLIOSIS
The staff at Orthobility bracing are very grateful for the generous gift given to our clinic by one of our young clients. She has raised money for a Higgy Bear fundraiser and was one of the top contributors, so was gifted a Higgy Bear to donate to someone special. We can no share these bears with other kids dealing with Scoliosis in an effort to comfort them when starting their scoliosis journey.
Posted in:Orthobility BracingScoliosis |
Plagiocephaly: Management of Baby Flat Head
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Initially, the suggested course of action for reshaping the flat head would be repositioning. This would be the recommended for the first 4-5 months. For mild to moderate plagiocephaly, more than half will resolve by 6 months of age by repositioning alone. If the plagiocephaly is moderate to severe and if repositioning is not effective a helmet would be the next option.
Helmets work very well at reshaping the flat spot when repositioning has not been effective.
Please contact us for more information on plagiocephaly and infant hemets
Posted in:PlagiocephalyHelmetsBaby |
How a Plagiocephaly Helmet Can Help Your Baby
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Custom plagiocephaly helmets for baby flat head are an option for those that have had limited success with counter-positioning. Helmet use provides best results if started early while the head is still growing. The best time for using a custom plagiocephaly helmet is still between 5-6 months of age.
Helmets are effective for plagiocephaly because they create a space where the flat spot is. As the child grows the child will fill in the space that is created by the helmet. No matter how the child sleeps, a proper fitting plagiocephaly helmet will encourage growth in the flattened area. Results are based on growth. If a child starts with a plagiocephaly helmet early there is greater growth remaining thus better improvement.
Please contact us for more information on plagiocephaly and infant hemets
Posted in:Orthobility BracingPlagiocephalyHelmets |