When Sarah first came to The Foot Lab – Glossop, she was struggling with constant ankle pain and instability. Every step felt uncertain, and her confidence along with her mobility had started to fade. Daily activities that once felt effortless were now exhausting and painful.

After a full biomechanical assessment, our podiatry team recommended a specialist device called the Richie Brace a lightweight, custom-made ankle brace designed to restore stability and reduce pain without surgery.

Within weeks, Sarah noticed a transformation. The support of the Richie Brace allowed her to walk freely again without the fear of her ankle giving way. The improvement in comfort, balance and movement was, in her own words, “life-changing.”

We’re incredibly proud to offer this breakthrough technology here at The Foot Lab – Glossop, one of only a handful of clinics in the UK providing the Richie Brace.

Originally designed in 1996 by Dr Doug Richie in the USA, the brace is now recognised worldwide as the gold-standard treatment for conditions such as:

Chronic ankle instability

Flat-foot deformities

Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction

Its lightweight construction, low-profile design, and custom fit mean better comfort, easier shoe wear, and restored confidence in every step.

While this type of brace is rarely available through the NHS, it’s transforming lives in private practice — helping people like Sarah avoid invasive surgery and regain their quality of life.

At The Foot Lab, we’re passionate about providing innovative, evidence-based solutions that truly make a difference.
Because when you can walk with confidence again, everything changes.