Pedorthist (Custom-Made Orthotics) and Bracing

Cobblestone Medicine and Rehab Centres

 

A custom-made foot orthotic is a device inserted into your shoe designed to align the foot and lower limb into a more efficient position and better manage load or forces. Excessive tissue forces can be altered allowing for injured tissues to heal and optimal function to be restored.

The body is connected in what is called a kinetic chain, therefore the way the feet function has implications on the rest of the body. The correct foot orthotic can act to improve function and relieve tissues of abnormal stresses, both in the foot and higher up in the kinetic chain.

Custom orthotics can act to accommodate foot deformities, treat overuse injuries, unload painful areas, improve balance, be a key component in the management of diabetic foot symptoms and be used for sport enhancement.

Conditions often treated by a Pedorthist:

  • Calf and Achilles tendon issues
  • Shin pain
  • Heel pain and/or plantar fasciitis
  • Metatarsal (forefoot) issues including Morton’s Neuroma
  • Bunions
  • Ankle Pain & reoccurring sprains
  • Arthritis
  • Shin Splints
  • Knee pain (including osteoarthritis and patellofemoral tracking dysfunction)
  • Hip and low back pain
  • General foot and ankle symptoms

 

What is a Pedorthist?

A Canadian Certified Pedorthist is an expert in designing, fitting and modifying custom-made foot orthotics. They consult with patients to determine a pedorthic treatment plan to best meet the patient’s needs.

Pedorthics is the science and practice of evaluating, fabricating and delivery of foot orthotics to prevent or improve painful or disabling conditions of the foot and lower limb caused by disease, congenital defect, overuse of injury.

Are orthotics covered by OHIP?

No, pedorthic services are not covered by OHIP. But most extended health care insurance plans cover orthotics or at least a portion of them. Check your plan!

Do I need a prescription?

Yes, your extended health care plan will require a prescription from your family physician in order to reimburse you for your orthotic claim.

How long does it take?

Your initial assessment is approximately 45-minutes in length. Your orthotics will be ready in 1-2 weeks. Your pick-up and any follow-up appointment are approximately 15-minutes.

What is the break-in period?

Your orthotics should be broken-in in intervals. Wear should be extended slowly over time. After 2-weeks you should be comfortable in your orthotics.

If an orthotic adjustment is required, there is no additional fee and it is usually done on site while you wait.

How often do orthotics need replacing?

A set of orthotics will last 1-4yrs depending on wear and tear; how much you are on your feet, weight, activity level, etc.

How often will I need to wear my orthotics?

The more you wear your orthotics the more benefit you get from them and the better off you will be. However times when you are on your feet and active are the most important times for orthotic support.

Specializing in foot and gait biomechanics. We can create custom foot braces including orthotics for sports injury and performance, workers injury and personal injury.  We also provide custom foot care products as well.

 

Custom-made foot orthotics designed to improve your foot function, alleviate pain, & help you stay active!