Navigate the Holidays in Comfort: The Benefits of Custom Orthotics

The holidays are known for fun-filled events and twinkling lights, but non-stop activities like shopping, meal prep, and travel can leave your feet feeling tired and sore. Planning ahead and wearing comfortable shoes can help, but these steps aren’t always enough to provide lasting relief. Enter custom orthotics. 

At The Foot Institute in Shreveport and Natchitoches, Louisiana, podiatrist Angelo Morreale, DPM, regularly prescribes orthotics to patients experiencing foot pain. Learn why foot pain is more common during the holidays, and find out how custom orthotics can help. 

Why foot comfort matters during the holidays

When you think about the holidays, what comes to mind? Wrapping presents, planning seasonal menus, and attending gatherings are likely at the top of your list. Add in travel, shopping, and long periods spent on your feet, and it’s easy to see why so many people experience foot pain this time of year. If you have a bunion, hammertoe, or heel pain, even short periods of standing can make symptoms worse.

Although mild foot pain often improves with over-the-counter pain medication, icing, and lifestyle changes, these approaches aren’t always enough for lasting relief. To help prevent holiday-related foot fatigue, reduced mobility, and secondary pain in the back and legs, we often prescribe custom orthotics. 

What are custom orthotics?

Custom orthotics are prescription shoe inserts. They look similar to the insoles you can buy at the grocery store or pharmacy, but are designed specifically for your feet. They’re tailored to the unique shape of your arches and heels, providing quality support for your gait, or the way you walk.

Because they’re customized, orthotics make it easier to move comfortably. Many patients report less pain, improved mobility, and even better posture. This combination of benefits allows you to stand, walk, and dance longer, helping you stay active and pain-free.

How to know if you’re a candidate for custom orthotics

Request an orthotics consultation with Dr. Morreale if you regularly experience foot pain during the holidays, especially if standing or walking for long periods worsens your symptoms. This is particularly important if you have a pre-existing condition, such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, arthritis, or diabetes.

During your consultation, we discuss your symptoms, complete a podiatry exam, and assess your walking pattern to determine if you can benefit from orthotics. If you can, we take 3D scans of your feet which we send to a nearby podiatry lab. 

The lab uses the scans to craft your custom orthotics using materials like carbon fiber, plastic, foam, or a combination. Once they’re ready, you return to the office and try them on. Custom orthotics won’t necessarily prevent pain altogether, but they can make it easier to get through the holidays with less discomfort.

Concerned about foot pain over the holidays? 

Holiday foot pain is a common complaint, but you don’t have to accept it as the status quo. Custom orthotics provide an affordable and effective solution. To schedule a visit with Dr. Morreale at The Foot Institute, call your nearest office in Shreveport or Natchitoches, Louisiana, today.