Personalized Support to Relieve Pain and Improve Function
Foot pain, fatigue, and biomechanical issues can all stem from improper foot alignment or lack of support. Custom orthotics are medical-grade shoe inserts designed specifically for your feet to correct structural imbalances, relieve pressure, and improve movement patterns.
At Kalamazoo Foot Surgery, we provide fully customized orthotic devices tailored to your foot shape, activity level, and condition. Whether you’re managing heel pain, flat feet, arthritis, or recovering from injury, orthotics can provide long-lasting relief and help prevent further complications.

Common Reasons for Custom Orthotics
Our podiatrists may recommend custom orthotics to address:
- Flat feet or fallen arches
- High arches that don’t absorb shock well
- Plantar fasciitis and chronic heel pain
- Bunions or hammertoes caused by abnormal foot mechanics
- Ankle instability or frequent sprains
- Diabetic foot pressure relief
- Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back due to poor foot alignment
- Arthritis in the foot or ankle joints
- Overuse injuries in runners or athletes
Unlike over-the-counter insoles, custom orthotics are designed from a 3D mold of your feet and built to last.
Symptoms That May Indicate the Need for Orthotics
Patients who benefit from custom orthotics often experience:
- Arch pain or aching in the middle of the foot
- Sharp heel pain with the first steps in the morning
- Fatigue or soreness after standing or walking for long periods
- Uneven shoe wear or inward rolling of the ankles (pronation)
- Knee, hip, or lower back discomfort after activity
- Frequent calluses, corns, or pressure points on the feet
Diagnosis and Gait Evaluation
When you visit Kalamazoo Foot Surgery, your evaluation will include:
- A full discussion of your symptoms and activity level
- A biomechanical exam of your feet, ankles, and legs
- Gait analysis to assess how you walk or run
- Review of your footwear and recommendations for supportive shoes
- A 3D foot scan or mold to capture the exact shape of your feet
This allows us to design orthotics that fit your needs and provide the support your body requires.
Types of Custom Orthotics We Provide
We design custom orthotics for a wide range of foot conditions and lifestyle needs, including:
- Functional orthotics – Correct foot mechanics and improve joint alignment
- Accommodative orthotics – Provide cushioning and offload high-pressure areas
- Sport-specific orthotics – Designed for runners, cyclists, or other athletes
- Diabetic orthotics – Reduce pressure and friction to prevent wounds or ulcers
- Pediatric orthotics – Help address gait issues or foot development in children
- Workplace orthotics – For patients who stand or walk for long hours on hard surfaces
How Long Do Orthotics Last?
Custom foot orthotics typically last 2 to 5 years, depending on:
- Activity level and frequency of use
- Changes in weight or foot structure
- Wear and tear over time
- Growth (in children and teens)
We recommend follow-up evaluations every 12–18 months to ensure your orthotics still meet your needs.
Expert Foot & Ankle Care You Can Count On
At Kalamazoo Foot Surgery, we’ve been helping patients find relief through custom orthotics since 1978. Our board-certified podiatrists understand how foot structure affects your whole body and use precise technology to design orthotics that truly make a difference.
If you’re dealing with foot pain or alignment issues, let’s talk about whether custom orthotics could be the right fit for you.
Schedule your appointment today.
