Pedorthists are healthcare providers trained in the assessment of lower limb anatomy and biomechanics to help alleviate pain and dysfunction of the legs and feet.
Whether due to prolonged standing, athletics, injury or alignment issues, the daily stress of our lives can take its toll on our lower limbs. Pedorthic treatment provides custom and non-custom orthopaedic solutions such as foot orthotics, footwear modification, and compression socks to relieve pain and enhance performance.
What are Custom Foot Orthotics?
Custom Foot Orthotics are prescribed, custom-made devices that can be inserted into a shoe to support, align, prevent and/or accommodate foot irregularities and improve how the foot functions. They can be made and used for all ages, and can fit into almost any type of footwear. The design of a Custom Foot Orthotic depends on your requirements and the shoes you plan to wear them in.
What to Expect
At your initial assessment we start by understanding your unique needs and lifestyle. We review any factors that may be contributing to your pain and goals you have for the future. Any personal and health information you provide to your Pedorthist is completely confidential and will be safeguarded.
Next, a comprehensive biomechanical assessment and video gait analysis is performed.
A treatment plan is then created to address your specific alignment, movement and goals. This may include orthotics, compression, footwear recommendations, mobilizations, stretching, prevention and self-care.
Casting
If your treatment plan includes Custom Foot Orthotics, a 3D mold will be done. This is one of many steps to design the right orthotic for you. We use ONLY 3D casting techniques, such as plaster or foam box. This is important for making an orthotic that accurately fits and performs correctly. Once your cast is complete we can begin to make your new orthotics with the type of material and design best to meet your needs.
Receiving your new orthotics
Your fitting appointment is typically booked 1 to 2 weeks after your assessment, however this may be changed depending on need or complexity.
At your fitting appointment we will check the ‘fit and feel’ of your orthotics and ensure they are working well with your footwear and in motion. It’s best to bring the footwear you intend to use the orthotic with to ensure optimal fit. We have an onsite lab to make on-the-spot adjustments to your orthotic so that they fit your feet and shoes perfectly.
Follow Up
Once you’ve had an opportunity to adjust to your new orthotics and wear them consistently we will follow up with you. Your follow up appointment is booked between 2-4 weeks after your fitting. During your follow up, we will review your experience, symptoms and orthotic performance. If any adjustments are needed to enhance the performance of your orthotics it can be done during this time or within the first year of use at no additional charge.
Pedorthic treatment is beneficial in treating:
Achilles tendonitis
Arthritis
Bunions
Callusing/Corns
Diabetic foot
Knee instability
Leg length discrepancy
Plantar fasciitis
Shin splints
Swelling of feet and legs