While shoe manufacturers do their best to create a shoe that will be comfortable, suitable and have a good fit for many, the reality is that our feet don’t follow a one-style-fits-all model - and so we can’t expect our shoes to offer us the right level of support we need straight off the bat. This is especially true when we consider the numerous unique features of our feet, the conditions that can affect the structure and function of our feet (like bunions, claw toes, leg length differences, ankle joint fusions and more), our injury history, our physical activity levels - and even the natural age-related changes to our feet over time.

Instead of getting a custom orthopaedic shoe, which are often synonymous with being large, bulky and unfashionable, a simpler and easier solution is opting for our existing shoes to be modified to best suit our needs with footwear modifications - a service offered by very few podiatry clinics, but that we can accommodate here at The Feet People.

What Are Footwear Modifications?

Footwear modifications are customised changes to your existing shoes made by your podiatrist to optimise their fit, comfort or function. Each modification is carefully selected to match the unique needs of your feet and your circumstances, and the modifications are backed by a comprehensive understanding of the biomechanical structure and function of the feet. This means that we know the exact effect the modification is designed to create, ensuring it’s going to be well suited to your feet, activity levels, lifestyle and goals.

Benefits Of Modifying Existing Footwear

The benefits of modifying your existing footwear include that:

• Your shoes can now play an important role in addressing the underlying causes of foot pains or problems by being able to give you the right support (or other features) that you need, often working together alongside other treatment modalities
  
• Your risk of injury may be reduced
  
• Your comfort on your feet may be improved and pain levels reduced
  
• Your stability on your feet may be improved
  
• Your gait may be optimised
  
• Your shoes can play a role in helping reduce pressure and friction on your feet
  
• Your shoes can play an integral part in slowing the rate of progression of a foot problem, such as bunions where a shoe that would normally rub against the bunion can accommodate it by widening the area or having an accommodating blow-out for the bunion. This means your shoes accommodate foot problems, instead of working against them
  
• You can select a shoe that you like the look of, meaning you are much more likely to wear it regularly
  
• It is a custom service that considers the unique needs of your feet
  

Our Range Of Footwear Modifications

Our podiatrists offer an extensive range of shoe modifications to best meet your needs. Our experience also means that we can also provide one-off custom modifications to match even the most unique feet and circumstances. If you have something in mind and want to see if we can help, please contact us.

Heel raise (1-15 mm)

A heel raise involves adding extra material to the heel portion of the shoe, at a thickness of between 1 and 15 mm. This height is progressively bevelled down to 0 mm below the arch, giving it a wedge-like appearance. We may use a heel raise in cases where: 

• An Achilles tendon may have become permanently shortened, as keeping the heel slightly elevated will reduce the tension on the Achilles with every step. 
  
• The front of the ankle would benefit from being opened up with the joint space widened
  
• There is limited range of motion in the ankle, and we want to add greater motion
  
• A child is struggling with Sever’s disease
  
• A person is dealing with non-resolving posterior tibial tendon dysfunction (PTTD)
  

Full length raise (single - 1-30mm+)

A full length raise lifts not only the heel, but the entire length along the bottom of the shoe. We use full length raises up to a maximum height of over 30mm fairly often to account for leg length differences, where the difference in length between the two legs is resulting in pain and other symptoms in the lower limbs. By lifting the shorter leg to match the difference, we are able to balance the alignment of the knees and hips, the effects of which often reverberate onto the muscles of the back as well as the lower legs.

Buttress

Buttressing refers to the addition of extra support or padding to specific areas of the shoe. We see great benefits in those who need added stability and support through the midfoot in order to achieve improved foot function, slow progression of ligament, tendon and joint problems, and in minimising the risk of sprains or injuries. It can also relieve pain and reduce rubbing in certain areas. Buttressing is done by making an external modification to the inside or outside the shoe (or both). 

If you find that one side of your shoe is collapsing or giving way, this is a sign that you may need extra buttressing in this area. We use buttressing for conditions including:

• Tendon failure
  
• Nerve damage affecting the foot or leg
  
• Charcot foot (where the joints in the foot progressively deteriorate)
  

Relasting

During relasting, we increase the surface area of the sole to make it wider for added support and comfort. This is beneficial for those who:

• Experience charcot foot, which makes the foot appear flatter, and so it takes up more room
  
• Develop adult acquired flatfoot
  
• Develop bunions
  
• Have a prominent bony deformity that makes a regular width shoe painful or uncomfortable
  

Rocker sole

A rocker sole can come in many different forms - we offer eight different options that we’ll select based on what will be most beneficial for your feet and the symptoms you’re experiencing. Imagine the base of your shoe like a rocking horse - this is similar to what a rocker sole looks like, at least in some part depending on the type of rocker sole that is best for your foot. 

A rocker sole helps you rock through each step in the specific area of the foot that is selected to rock, meaning the shoe naturally does some of the work of walking for you to ease the strain on damaged, fused or painful areas. We offer various types of rocker soles including:

• Negative heel rocker sole
  
• Double rocker sole
  
• Mild rocker sole
  
• MPJ (Carvelle) rocker sole
  
• Lisfranc’s rocker sole
  
• Heel-to-toe rocker sole
  
• Ankle joint rocker sole
  
• Stiletto rocker sole
  

Research has shown that rocker soles have been successful for a range of conditions including:

• Achilles pain
  
• Knee osteoarthritis
  
• Hemiplegia
  
• Plantar fasciitis
  
• Chronic low back pain
  
• Osteoarthritis in the toes
  
• Ankle joint fusions
  

Sole Flare

A flare modification can be added to either the inside or outside the sole of the shoe, around the midsole and outsole area, to broaden the base of support. This can help improve the stability of the shoe, and gently move the foot away from the modified side, especially where the feet severely roll in and out when walking.

Haglund bump relief 

The addition of an in-shoe heel pad or heel lift can adjust the position of the heel in the shoe, and raise it sufficiently to relieve pressure away from the haglund’s deformity (pump bump). 

Heel collar

A heel collar is an additional strip of material that is stitched around the top line of the shoe, which may be padded. This converts the shoe into a higher-top shoe or boot, which has been shown to decrease the amount that the foot inverts during walking, which can decrease the risk of ankle sprains.

Shoe stretching 

Stretching a shoe can help increase the width or length of the shoe to improve the fit and reduce the risk of injury. As many feet don’t fit the traditional mould of a shoe, this is a feature many use for optimum fit and comfort.

Resoling shoes

It’s not uncommon for the soles of the shoes to wear out before the uppers do. We are able to replace the outer soles of many shoes by resoling them, prolonging the life of your shoes and the support and comfort your shoes offer your feet. 

Strap lengthening

Straps are an important fastening mechanism that can help ensure the best fit and therefore optimal function, support and stability of your shoe. If the length of the strap on your shoe isn’t quite right, we can lengthen it, helping keep you comfortable on your feet.

Colour change

If you have specific shoes you love that best support your feet but would prefer them in a different colour, we can help by changing their colour in many cases. This will be impacted by their original colour and the material from which they’re made.

Velcro replacement

Velcro is a fantastic fastening mechanism, but is prone to naturally losing its grip over time with daily use. We can replace your velcro to give your straps a new lease on life, enabling them to effectively support and stabilise your foot inside of your shoe.

Other shoe repairs

If you have a shoe repair need that isn’t listed here, give us a call and speak to our podiatrists. As we complete everything in-house, we are often able to accommodate custom requests or problem solve an innovative way of achieving the goal of the shoe modification.

Visit One Of Our Brisbane Podiatry Clinics For An Assessment

Footwear modifications can play a big role in improving the fit, comfort, support and stability of your feet, as well as help reduce the progression of a range of foot problems and complications. Our podiatrists know the value that shoe modifications bring to our patients, and we are one of the only clinics in the area to offer this service. If you have a foot problem that makes it difficult for you to fit a shoe comfortably, you have a medical condition that has altered the structure or function of your feet, or walking in shoes has never felt comfortable for you, come in for an appointment with our experienced podiatry team.

FAQs

Do I need footwear modifications, or are there alternative treatments?

Footwear modifications are only a treatment that we prescribe for those where it is clinically indicated, and where it will be beneficial to their ongoing foot health and function. There may be alternative treatments that are better suited - such as the use of custom foot orthotics, but this really depends on the nature of the problem or injury and a person's unique factors, such as the structure of their feet. In many cases, footwear modifications are an adjunct to other treatments that work together to help meet a person’s goals. In all cases, we’ll discuss your treatment options with you and then make a plan forwards together. If you do not want to have footwear modifications, we’ll likely be able to implement other strategies to help achieve similar goals. 

How long will it take to get my footwear modifications?

Our footwear modifications take on average two weeks to complete from the first appointment where we select the modifications needed.

How often will I need to replace or update my modified shoes?

Roughly at the same timeframe that you’d naturally wear through a pair of the same shoes.

Can I continue to wear my current shoes, or do I need to purchase new ones?

If your shoes are in good condition and have the right supportive features to offer the best care for your feet then there is no reason that you cannot keep wearing the same shoes. If your shoes are worn down and it is time to replace them anyway (or it is close to this time), we’ll recommend replacing them first so you get the most out of your modifications.

Are there any risks or side effects associated with footwear modifications?

As footwear modifications are custom prescribed for your feet, the risks are very few. You may need up to a week to get used to the feel of the modifications, as it may feel different from a standard shoe - though most people find that it is a much more comfortable difference.

Can I still use orthotic devices with modified shoes?

Absolutely. We’ll ensure your orthotics are still fitting optimally to your shoes after they’ve been modified.

How will the modified shoes affect my gait?

In the exact way that we prescribe them to! We’ll carefully select your modifications in order to make the changes you need to help you walk and live more comfortably and with optimum function. So the way your gait is affected depends entirely on the problems or injuries you’re facing, and how we’ve collaboratively chosen to approach your foot care. While your gait may be affected in many ways, they will all be positive changes.

Can I participate in sports or physical activities with modified shoes?

Yes, you can still participate in sports and physical activities with modified shoes - if you’re otherwise able to and that was your intent. We always prescribe your shoes and modifications to work in with your goals and lifestyle - so if that’s to help you stay active, then we’ll discuss this with you and ensure your modifications align with these goals.

Can footwear modifications completely resolve my foot condition, or will I still need additional treatments?

This really depends on the reason for your modifications and will vary from person to person. It also depends on your symptoms. For example, for someone with a significant leg length difference following knee or hip surgery, implementing a full length raise on the shorter leg after they’ve resumed movement after surgery may be all that is needed to help prevent future problems associated with a leg length difference. If you’re currently dealing with a recurring or ongoing injury or chronic pain, however, it is likely we’ll use other therapies alongside footwear modifications to help you get the best results. Ultimately, it’s all about helping you get the best results and outcomes for your foot health, well-being and quality of life.

Are there any specific care instructions for maintaining and cleaning modified shoes?

You’ll want to care for your modified shoes in similar ways that you care for existing shoes - focusing on ways to help support their longevity. We’ll give you any special instructions as needed when we fit your shoes, depending on the type of modifications that you have.

Visit one of our Brisbane Podiatry clinics

If you would like to talk to one of our team, visit us at one of two Brisbane based locations, CBD & Newmarket.

Discover our other services & treatments