Timothy Charlton, M.D.
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      • Achilles Tendon Reconstruction with Haglund Resection
      • Minimally Invasive Achilles Tendon Repair
      • Cartiva Hydrogel Implant
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      • Peroneal Tendon Reconstruction / Fibula Groove Deepening
      • FHL Tendon Transfer For Peroneus Brevis and Longus Rupture
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Products That I think are Decent

Many patients asked me about products that I think are worth the money and are well made.  I have this list of a variety of products that I have seen over the years that I liked.  These simply are links to other websites.  I have no financial interest in any of these websites or products, and I receive no royalties from this.  This is simply information for you.

Knee Scooter - This is the most common device people ask about.  They look pretty silly the first time you see one, but 90% of people think they are absolutely great.  You can rent them at roughly $100/month but the prices have come down so much that it makes sense to buy one.  Most insurances DO NOT pay for them but no harm in calling your insurance and asking about "durable medical equipment".  If you buy them in advance, you can try them out before surgery and many people find that helpful.  It is definitely helpful for the 6-10 weeks of non-weightbearing, but patients often use the knee scooter for several weeks after simply because they are just faster on the knee scooter early on in the recovery.  There are many different options on Amazon to choose from.
Knee Scooter
Picture

Achilles Tendon Boot -  This is the boot that Kobe used for his rehab.  Some insurances pay for it so definitely try to run it through insurance as my only criticism is that it is pretty expensive.  Otherwise, it's a pretty great boot.
Vaco Pro Achilles Boot
Picture

This box was "invented" by an outstanding orthopedic surgeon in Ohio.  The box itself is not new but his adaptation certainly is a vast improvement on things.  I got one for the LA Ballet and was reluctant to bring it over because I liked it so much.  They certainly need it more than me.
ONe Stretch Achilles Box

Orthotics always raise frequent questions.  For the most part, I do not think that most people need a custom made orthotic.  The custom made orthotic often are $300 and most insurances do not pay for them.  And often that are uncomfortable.  These over the counter options are much cheaper and do a fairly good job

These are my "go to" insoles.  Good quality and a really affordable price.  Easy to get on Amazon
Walk Hero Insoles
I own several pairs of these insoles.  Good quality and perhaps slightly more durable than Walk Hero.  Also Amazon link
Easy Feet Insoles

I like the technology and the same technology would have cost you $300 per orthotic 5 years ago.  I wish they we a little more durable.
Dr Scholl's Custom
I like the Superfeet.  I do not see them as meaningfully different to Walk Hero or Easy Feet.  So I do not think the cost is justified.  Still very good quality
Superfeet orthotics
These insert are custom molded with heat.  Recommended by a patient, he had these for 5 years.  These inserts seem very durable
Sole Custom inserts

New Balance Fresh Foam More running shoes
Ankle braces can slow down the process of ankle deterioration, however its often bulky and only fits into a sneaker with the laces opened up.  Nevertheless, we certainly will try it before surgery for some condition.


Posterior tibial tendon braces

what is PTTD?
Richie brace
The Richie Brace has an orthotic built in.  Seems good for a stage IIB flatfoot.  It might be hard and somewhat uncomfortable for some people
Aircast airlift
This seem more comfortable than the Richie brace but I would be cautious if it has enough "oomph" to truly lift the arch up.  The comfort is a trade off for support.

Ped Egg - This callus shaver is like a cheese grater for skin.  Pretty effective if you use it everyday.
PED Egg

As we get older, our feet get wider.  This device, or something like it, has bumps that you can attach to the stretcher and stretch specific areas in your shoe to relieve pressure.  Works reasonably well for bunions and hammertoes.
shoe stretcher

Kinesio Tape
Pre Tape Spray
Many people ask me how to tape the second toe for instability.  Kinesio tape comes in many brands and this brand is high quality.  There are many other brands that will work as well.  You can cut the strips into skinnier strips with scissors.  The spray will make the tape stay on longer and can make it last up to several days.

Elastikon Tape
This is the tape that we use at the LA Dance Project.  The good news is that is super sticky and can last up to a week.  The bad news is that it's super sticky and it's hard to manipulate because it sticks to itself as you are putting it on.  If you heat the adhesive with a hair dryer or match prior to putting it on, it's impressively sticky and can last even through the shower.  It's pretty inexpensive and a little more sturdy compared to Kinesio.
elastikon 2"
This is the 2 inch version.  You would have to cut this lengthwise to fit around the toes, which could be difficult and sticky.  On the flip side, you get twice the amount of tape for 25 cents more on Amazon.


444 S. San Vicente Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90048