What's Prescription Footwear?

In our society many people require shoes that are prescribed because of a medical condition. Diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and other orthopaedic conditions demand that we think somewhat differently about shoes because rather than just being fashion items, such shoes have an important medical purpose for comfort or protection.

There is still sometimes a perception that prescription shoes are going to be ugly. Certainly there are often challenges to meet all the requirements, however advances in technology mean that many more people can have stylish shoes despite their medical condition.

It's important to realise that the exact nature of prescription shoes can vary significantly from person to person - even when they have the same medical condition.  It is very important that the process for determining the requirement for shoes is an individual one.

One common approach to classifying prescription shoes within the UK NHS is to describe them as Stock or “off the shelf”, Modular or Bespoke.

It can be quite confusing because these terms are sometimes used by people to mean different things.  Advances in technology mean that the terms have become somewhat artificial and need to be used cautiously.

When health care professionals work with us they will provide measurements of the foot and details of the clinical goals for the individual.  Sometimes measurements are taken with a plaster cast or sometimes with a sophisticated scanner.  From this starting point we can design and manufacture shoes that can be functionally effective as well as aesthetically pleasing.  Bolton Bros can select from a vast library of last shapes that will be suitable to provide an accurate shape for many people.  When necessary, Bolton Bros can create truly bespoke solutions using a blend of computer technology and skills of experienced craftsmen.