Custom orthotics are better than the one-size-fits-all versions at the drug store, and there’s a reason why

By Patricia Nugent

Much like a fingerprint, everyone has a unique foot, with its own set of super specific biomechanics.

To address a variety of issues, orthotics are shoe inserts precisely molded to each patient’s foot, and their gait, to improve biomechanics for optimum comfort and support.

Dr. Danielle L. Shaper, founder of Finesse Footcare in Lyndhurst, is not only a prescriber of orthotics, but also herself a wearer.

“I wear them all the time, whether in sneakers, ballet shoes, work shoes or dress shoes,” she says. “I suffer from low arches and would not be able to stand on my feet all day without experiencing leg pain if I didn’t wear orthotics.”

How the Process Works
First, Dr. Shaper analyzes the biomechanics of the foot, performing digital X-rays to detect any bone abnormalities. Then she does the digital casting. The information is sent out to the lab that day and the office gets the shoe inserts back in several weeks.

“Then I evaluate the fit to make sure it’s perfect,” she says. “The average length a custom orthotic will last is about five years, depending on the level of use.”

Orthotics are made from different materials for different purposes. For instance, athletes and runners usually opt for breathable versions with vinyl tops.

For diabetics, she prescribes softer orthotics for cushioning and support that are less likely to irritate the surface of their feet as well as allow for potential swelling. She also offers diabetic shoes to her patients, which Medicare covers.

Be Good to Your Feet
“Many of my patients are trying out orthotics right now to deal with foot discomfort,” she adds. “After spending months in their socks working from home, sitting at the computer, they are putting their work and dress shoes back on and heading to the office, which can put strain on feet.”

She explains that problems with the feet should not be overlooked, as they are often trigger points to other conditions such as muscle tightness in the legs, alignment issues of the knees and hips, and back pain.

“I make orthotics for patients of all ages and stages, from children to athletes, adults and seniors,” she says.

Pandemic Protocols
Throughout the pandemic, high-risk patients have put their trust in Finesse Footcare’s strict protocols, including sanitization of surfaces between visits and making sure to stagger patients so they can’t cross each other in the waiting room or hallway. They’ve also installed new specialty chairs designed with attached clear barriers for the treatment rooms to further protect patients from exposure.

Bringing Innovation to our Area
Over the past year, Dr. Shaper has earned a reputation for introducing cutting-edge, minimally invasive treatments to the Cleveland area, including the FDA-cleared Lunula cold laser for toenail fungus and Radial Shockwave Therapy for heel pain.

She treats most foot and ankle issues, including ingrown toenails, bunions, hammertoes, plantar fasciitis, corns, warts, calluses, sprained ankles, diabetic footcare and spurs, as well as routine foot care.

Within the next month or two, to accommodate the growing practice, look for Finesse Footcare to expand into bigger offices within the same building. You’ll find them on the same floor, next to the elevator.

Finesse Footcare is located at 5035 Mayfield Road in Lyndhurst. Same-day appointments are usually available. The practice accepts a wide variety of insurance plans. Call 216-382-8070, or visit FinesseFootcare.com for more information.