Physical Therapy (for orthotics)

[lomagna.livejournal.com]

Hi everyone,

I'm looking for a good physical therapist, specifically someone who can do prescription orthotics. I had orthotics in high school when I ran track for overly high arches, but they've beyond worn out now, and I'd like to be able to go jogging without crippling shin splits.

I tried Boston Sports Medicine in Davis but I had a bad experience. A friend of mine recommended Joint Ventures, but when I called them to inquire I very much got a big chain company feel when they described their process for doing orthotics. I'm open to my mind being changed on them. Wanted to see if anyone had any recommendations, either general or specific.

If it matters, I have Harvard Pilgrim.

Thanks!

Comments

[genevra-mcneil.livejournal.com]

I have no clue if he can do orthotics, but I had an excellent experience with Ithamar at Outback on Highland Ave., about a mile out of Davis. (http://www.outbackpt.com/) It's a small new practice -- just Ithamar and one other PT who I never met and the lovely lady at the front desk. I never had a problem getting a good appointment and it's on the 88 and 90 bus routes. I had a bad shoulder and he got me back to health in a few months. He's got a great accent, too!

I recommend it highly.

[justphoenix.livejournal.com]

I went to Harvard Vanguard Somerville for PT a few months ago for plantar fasciitis. I didn't receive custom orthotics, but I did find it very helpful.

[hakamadare.livejournal.com]

maybe check out the Spaulding National Running Center (http://www.spauldingrehab.org/conditions-and-treatments/natl-running-center)?

[catling42.livejournal.com]

Dr. Grant at Amethyst Chiropractic does custom orthotics. She's great.

[rmd.livejournal.com]

Does it have to be from a PT? I have orthotics but I got them from a podiatrist, not a physical therapist, so you could try that if there's no good suggestions for PT's who can prescribe them.

[I've got a good recommendation for a podiatrist over in Belmont (David Alper, 1 Oak Ave, Belmont, plus he's over at the Reservoir Medical office on Concord Ave, Cambridge, one day a week), but I don't know if he's part of Pilgrim or not - I've seen him with a couple of different insurance companies, though.]

[crankyoldguy.livejournal.com]

I'll add a good word for Dr. Frank Santopietro. He is a podiatrist who specializes in orthotics and does a lot of work for local athletes. He does take Harvard Pilgrim, but you probably need a referral from your PCP. His office is at 1180 Beacon St. Brookline, right at the C line Kent St. stop.

-Gary

[davelew.livejournal.com]

I've had good luck with my arch problems and plantar fasciitis using minimalist shoes with no arch support to strengthen my feet. It's counter intuitive that shoes with less support can make pain go away, but it works for a lot of people. If your problems stem from feet that are too weak for their shape, sometimes strengthening the feet with shoes that allow the feet to be stressed can work better than using a brace to prevent any movement. For many foot problems, this doesn't work, but for some problems using minimalist shoes (I like the Newton Distance S and the New Balance Minimus) and proper running form with a midfoot strike can prevent issues.

[living life happier (from livejournal.com)]

If you want a physical therapist, I highly recommend Spaulding Rehab in Medford. If you want a podiatrist, I recommend Greg Goodwin in Brighton 781-391-7045. Either one will give you good orthodics.