Planus foot is a condition in which the foot's arch is too flat and does not support the weight like it should. This often causes pain, discomfort and muscle fatigue in the foot. Orthotics are devices that can be placed in the shoe that help shape the foot properly so it can support the weight. Orthotics are only effective on those with a flexible arch. If the arch is too rigid, then surgery is the only effective treatment.
Orthotics
The shoe inserts used to correct flat feet can be soft, firm or hard-molded. These usually are put only in athletic shoes or full-depth shoes, because fashion shoes have a lower profile and narrow toes that do not allow enough room for the inserts. Orthotics are made for average-sized people or smaller. If you are larger than normal, you will probably want an arch filler, which is a spongy material that is added under the heel for added support.
Orthotics can be custom-made. The fitting would be done at the podiatrist's office. These will most likely provide better support and pain relief but will probably be more expensive.
UCBL
The UCBL is the most commonly prescribed type of orthotic for children, according to a May 2009 article by Seamus Kennedy, president of Hersco Ortho Labs, published in The O&P Edge. The UCBL was named after the University of California at Berkeley Laboratory, where it was first developed. It is a thermoplastic orthotic with a heel that is extra deep, at least 30 millimeters.
Other Therapies
Physical therapy is often prescribed by podiatrists (foot doctors) in conjuction with orthotics. The podiatrist also might wrap the foot with special tape to give more support and relief to ligaments and joints that are affected. If greater control is needed, an ankle support in conjunction with the orthotic may be needed. In severe cases, or if the foot's arch is too rigid, surgery may be necessary to correct the disorder.
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