Custom Orthotics- why do they help?

Podiatrists often talk about custom orthotics. Why are they so much better than off-the-shelf products and do they really help eliminate pain?

Custom made orthotics are inserts that are made from a mold or impression of your feet. They help by bringing the ground up to your feet at predetermined angles so that your foot moves through the gait cycle in an optimal position. Orthotics help by realigning the foot with the body. This helps a person to move more efficiently thus reducing stress and eliminating pain. Store bought over-the-counter inserts are not customized to your feet. They therefore have little effect on the biomechanics of your feet.