Think you need prescription foot orthotics, but have lots of unanswered questions? This article will run through a high-level overview of some of the most common questions about foot orthotics so that you are as informed as possible before booking an appointment with a health professional.
What is an orthotic?
This is a medical device that resembles an insole, that goes into a shoe in place of the off-the-shelf cushioning. The orthotic is tailor-made for each individual, each pathology and each shoe. Therefore, no two patients will have identical orthotics. Once the orthotics are in the shoes, your weight will be distributed to promote better alignment of your body.
What are foot orthotics used for ?
Custom orthotics allow us to correct the distribution of the load under our feet. They stabilize and realign the lower limbs according to each person’s unique needs. Without orthotics, poor posture, pathology or future deformation could be the source of several pains. They therefore serve to correct current biomechanical problems while preventing future pain related to the general alignment of the body. A custom-made foot orthotic will relieve pressure points and reposition the body’s alignment according to its normal biomechanics.
Why wear foot orthotics?
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Improved posture and gait
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Make the body function optimally
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Relief and disappearance of certain body pains
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Increased comfort and resumption of sporting activities
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Reduced muscle fatigue
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Strengthening muscle tone
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Reduced risk of injury
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Solutions adapted to multiple conditions and occasions.
What problems can foot orthotics treat?
Orthotics can be the solution for several pathologies or problems, including:
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Morton’s neuroma
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Hallux valgus, also called bunions
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Hollow feet or flat feet
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Clubfoot
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Leg inequality
- Shin Splints
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Calluses
Although these pathologies are the most common, orthotics can be the solution for other issues as well.
How to get foot orthotics?
1. Evaluation
Your first step is to find a practitioner, meet with them, and go through an initial assessment. During the evaluation, the practitioner will evaluate gait, pain, dermatological problems of the feet, pressure points, shoe wear and lifestyle habits, and subsequently will be able to make appropriate recommendations to treat your pain.
3. Manufacturing of custom orthotics
Once the prescription is in hand and the evaluation has been carried out, the orthotics will be custom-built by the team of technicians at International Orthotic Labs, if your practitioner is our partner.
4. Fitting appointment
During the fitting appointment, the practitioner will check that the foot orthoses suit the needs of the foot. The orthotics will be adjusted to the shoes. Finally, a short gait assessment will be carried out to validate the patient’s comfort with the orthoses and make any necessary adjustments. It can take several weeks to break in a pair of orthotics. If discomfort occurs, let your practitioner know.
How much do foot orthotics cost?
Pricing is left up to your practitioner, and each charges according to the recommendations of their college, their clinic, and their expertise.
Are foot orthotics reimbursed?
Custom prescription orthotics are reimbursed by the majority of insurance companies through paramedical insurance. An amount is typically allocated on an annual or biannual basis by your provider.
In what shoes do you wear foot orthotics?
The majority of shoes can accommodate shoes, but inadequate shoes will not provide the support needed for your foot orthotics to perform their role effectively. See our article on how to best choose shoes for your orthotics.
How to maintain/clean foot orthotics?
Foot orthotics need to be cleaned in order to stay in good condition for longer. Follow these 4 steps and your orthotics will stay in good condition:
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Use an anti-odor solution daily. Spray the product on your foot orthotics and let it air dry. Remove your orthotics from your shoes regularly to air them out and prevent odors.
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Every week, use a mild soap and a damp towel to thoroughly clean your foot orthotics. Do not immerse them in water, this may cause permanent damage.
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Let it air dry. Do not use heat, this could deform or damage your orthotics.
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Make an appointment for an annual follow-up to check the condition of the foot orthotics. A change of covering may be carried out to avoid the accumulation of bacteria.
