Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics prescribed by our Cockburn Central podiatrists are one of the most effective long-term solutions for a wide range of foot, ankle, knee, and lower back pain conditions. Unlike generic pharmacy insoles, our custom-made orthotics are fabricated from a precise cast of your individual feet following a comprehensive biomechanical assessment.
What Are Custom Orthotics?
Custom orthotics (also called prescription orthotics or prescription insoles) are medical devices worn inside your footwear to support, align, and improve the function of your feet and lower limbs. They are made from a negative cast or 3D scan of your foot and are built to a specific prescription written by your podiatrist based on your biomechanical assessment findings.
At Cockburn Podiatry, we work with leading Australian orthotics laboratories to produce orthotics of the highest quality for our patients across Cockburn Central, South Lake, Yangebup, Success, Atwell, Hammond Park and surrounds.
Conditions Treated with Custom Orthotics
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain — redistributing load away from the inflamed fascia
- Achilles tendonitis — reducing tension on the tendon
- Flat feet (pes planus) — supporting the medial arch
- High arches (pes cavus) — cushioning high-pressure areas
- Morton’s neuroma — offloading the metatarsal heads
- Bunions (hallux valgus) — slowing progression and reducing pain
- Shin splints — correcting overpronation and tibial loading
- Knee pain (patellofemoral syndrome) — improving lower limb alignment
- Lower back pain — associated with leg length discrepancy or abnormal gait
- Diabetic foot ulcer prevention — pressure redistribution
- Children’s growing pains and flat feet
The Cockburn Podiatry Orthotic Process
Step 1: Biomechanical Assessment & Gait Analysis
Your initial orthotic consultation is a comprehensive 45–60 minute assessment. Our podiatrist evaluates your posture and lower limb alignment, assesses joint range of motion, analyses your gait (walking pattern) both barefoot and in footwear, reviews your symptoms and medical history, and examines your current footwear for wear patterns.
Step 2: Scans
Once orthotics are determined to be appropriate, a precise scan of your feet is taken in a specific, clinically determined foot position. A detailed prescription is written for the laboratory specifying materials, posting angles, additions, and cover type.
Step 3: Laboratory Fabrication
Your orthotics are fabricated by a specialist Australian laboratory to exact specifications.
Step 4: Orthotic Fitting & Footwear Review
When your orthotics are ready, you return for a fitting appointment. We place the orthotics in your footwear, check alignment and fit, make any necessary on-site adjustments, and discuss the break-in period and wearing schedule. We provide detailed advice on which shoes your orthotics will work best in.
Step 5: Follow-Up Review
A review appointment is recommended 4–6 weeks after fitting to assess your progress, comfort, and any fine adjustments required. We are always available between appointments if you have any concerns.
Types of Orthotics We Prescribe
We prescribe orthotics across a range from rigid functional devices (for biomechanical correction) to accommodative devices (for cushioning and pressure redistribution, e.g. diabetic patients).
Custom vs. Prefabricated — Which Is Right for You?
In some cases, a high-quality prefabricated orthotic may be an appropriate starting point — particularly for younger patients, acute conditions, or when cost is a primary concern. Our podiatrists will advise you honestly on whether custom orthotics are clinically indicated for your specific condition, or whether a prefabricated option would achieve a similar outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between custom orthotics and pharmacy insoles?
Over-the-counter insoles are generic and made for a general foot type. Custom orthotics are fabricated from a 3D scan of your specific foot after a comprehensive biomechanical assessment, addressing your exact pathology and lifestyle. They are significantly more effective for clinical conditions.
How long do custom orthotics last?
High-quality custom orthotics typically last 2–5 years. We recommend an annual review to check condition and ensure they still meet your current needs.
Are health fund rebates available?
Yes. All major health funds provide rebates for custom orthotics via HICAPS on-the-spot claiming. As BUPA and Medibank preferred providers, we offer maximum rebates for patients with these funds.
Book your orthotic consultation today. Call (08) 9417 3737 or book online. Cockburn Podiatry is located at Cockburn Central, serving South Lake, Yangebup, Atwell, Success, Hammond Park and surrounds.
Related services: Heel Pain & Plantar Fasciitis | Sports Podiatry | Children’s Podiatry