Orthopedic Foot Abnormality /
Rigid Bone Deformity

When surgery is not a feasible option. (i.e. hammer toes, hallux valgus etc.)

Major Size Difference Between Feet -
(2 sizes or more).

If there is no other abnormality, it is possible to buy two pairs of shoes and use only one of each size.

Leg Length Discrepancy - 1/2"

Internal lifts in shoes (lifts higher that 1/2"), generally cannot be accommodated in stock footwear. Lifts - 1/2" may be added to the soles of shoes, but usually look better cosmetically when the lifts are accomplished internally.

Bracing

Many times shoes fitting becomes difficult when a brace i.e. "shoehorn" - ankle foot orthosis (A.F.O.) must also fit into the footwear. Custom footwear may be made to fit over ANY foot related brace.

Post Traumatic Foot Changes

(i.e. post ankle fusion.) Since the ankle no longer flexes the footwear may be specially rockered to assist in producing a more normal looking gait (walk). this commonly incorporates one or more of the other reasons for custom footwear. For instance there is commonly an ankle size difference and/or a functional leg length discrepancy.

Congenital Conditions Affecting The Foot

Clubfoot, Spina Bifida, Cerebral Palsy (etc.) All of these conditions cause severe foot deformities that will often be best accomodated with custom footwear.

Acquired Conditions Affecting The Foot

Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis, Head Injury, Polio. These may cause difficulties in balance and foot function which may be helped by custom footwear.

Partial Foot Amputations

Custom footwear can often relieve pressure on the remaining stump, to aid walking and prevent localized breakdown.

Extreme Foot Sizes

Extreme foot sizes (width and length), especially those requiring custom made supports. i.e. sizes less than 5 and more than 11 for women, and sizes less than 7 and more than 14 men.

*STYLE* - Off-the-shelf orthopedic footwear come in limited styles, sizes and colors. Custom made shoes, offer endless styles, limited only by the severity of the foot problem.