Dr. Paul D. CoffinInstructions For Use
Custom made orthotics are designed to work with your shoes. For best
results, they should be worn with tie shoes with good heel counters and
solid midsoles. The shoes should bend only across the ball of the foot,
not through the middle. (see Shoes)
The orthotic should be placed snugly against the back of the heel of the
shoe. If there is a removable liner, it should be taken out. It is
possible to leave the liner in underneath the orthotic if any "lip" or
raised area is trimmed off the liner, leaving a flat surface on which to
lay the orthotic.
The orthotics are built to change the person's biomechanics and make the
feet function more efficiently. They may feel strange at first. There
may be a tipping or pressure that is new to the wearer. The break-in
period differs for all. Some people are able to wear them all day right
away and others may need to break them in more slowly by increasing the
wearing time 1-2 hours per day.
If blisters develop, the socks may be turned inside out. Acrylic socks
are best since cotton tends to absorb moisture and acrylic wicks it away
from the skin.
Orthotics may be worn in specialized sports shoes as well. It is
sometimes advisable to order a second pair for sports shoes.
If the orthotics are not comfortable after a two week break-in period,
adjustments may be needed. Orthotics may be returned by mail with notes
regarding the problem or it may be advisable to schedule an appointment.
It is important to note when and where the pain is present and in what
type of shoe. The orthotics can be marked in the problem areas. They may
simply need to be altered to fit into the shoes correctly.
Dr. Coffin's goal is to make each person comfortable in orthotics. Those
who have been experiencing the pain of an injury or poorly functioning
feet may take some time to achieve this. The orthotics may be changing
years of foot, muscle and tendon dysfunction. With improved
biomechanics, the entire lower extremity will function more efficiently.
In some people, improvements will take a longer period of time.