Where can I buy Custom Orthotics?
Many people will, at some point in their life, experience foot issues or pain. With 26 bones, 33 joints, and hundreds of muscles, tendons, and ligaments, the foot is a complex structure requiring adequate amounts of support.
When any part of the foot is compromised, it can cause a chain reaction, affecting the entire lower extremity all the way up to the back. So, how do we ensure that our feet are getting proper support and how can we correct malalignments?
One way, is through custom orthotics. It may have recommended to you or prescribed that you get custom orthotics, but what are custom orthotics and where can you get them?
Everything you need to know about getting Custom Orthotics
What are custom orthotics?
A custom orthotic is an insert that fits into your shoe to help treat or prevent pain and discomfort associated with lower extremity injuries and malalignments. It is a biomechanical medical device designed specifically for the individual’s foot. They help to align and stabilize the foot and ankle, thereby reducing forces and pressures through the joints.
What conditions can they help treat?
Custom orthotics are most often used to address foot mechanical issues, joint alignment issues, joint dysfunctions, and soft tissue dysfunctions. They can be used to relieve symptoms of common injuries and conditions such as:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Metatarsalgia
- Low or high arch
- Bunions
- Osteoarthritis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Knee pain
- Shin Splints
- Diabetes
What is involved in getting custom orthotics?
Getting custom orthotics usually involves an assessment, gait analysis, and a 3D casting.
Assessment: The first part of the assessment usually involves collecting information such as medical history and conditions, past injuries, lifestyle behaviours, activities and sports participated in, and so on. This helps to determine the needs of the client and what type of material the orthotic should made from (rigid, semi-rigid, softer).
Gait Analysis: The second part of the assessment is a gait analysis of gait patterns, instabilities, malalignments, and areas of discomfort. This will help determine which areas require more support and stability.
3D Casting: A 3-dimensional mold is taken of the foot using either a foam box cast, plaster cast, or computerized casting method. By getting a 3D mold of the foot, it allows for the orthotic to be made in the most anatomically correct position, while capturing the specific anatomy of the foot. This makes it a truly CUSTOM orthotic.
Once the orthotics arrive from the lab, they are ready for pick-up!
Are custom orthotics covered by insurance?
Most private insurance plans will cover a portion, if not the entire cost, of custom orthotics. It is often required that they be made by a properly licensed professional, such as a Podiatrist or Certified Pedorthist.
So, where can I get custom orthotics?
At Arthritis and Injury Care, we have Podiatrists and Certified Pedorthists to discuss and create your custom orthotics! Our fantastic team of admins will schedule your appointment and help you through the insurance process. Check out a clinic near you!
Our Locations for Custom Orthotics:
Buy Orthotics in Halifax, NS (downtown)
Park Lane Mall
1554 Dresden Row, Suite 3070
Halifax, NS B3J 2K2 Canada
Tel: (902) 442-5199
Toll Free: (888) 422-1608
Fax: (902) 442-5625
Buy Orthotics in Clayton Park, NS
Clayton Park Shopping Centre
278 Lacewood Drive
Halifax, NS B3M 3N8 Canada
Tel: (902) 404-8419
Toll Free: (888) 422-1608
Fax: (902) 442-5625
Buy Orthotics in Dartmouth, NS
Millstone Square at Russell Lake
250 Baker Drive, Suite 223 (Entrance C)
Dartmouth, NS B2W 6L4 Canada
Tel: (902) 404-8352
Toll Free: (888) 422-1608
Fax: (902) 404-8351
Buy Orthotics in Saint John, NB
555 Somerset Street, Suite 206
Saint John, NB E2K 4X2 Canada
Tel: (506) 632-2592
Toll Free: (888) 422-1608
Fax: (506) 632-9213
Buy Orthotics in Moncton, NB
140 Champlain Street, Suite 202
Dieppe, NB E1A 1N8 Canada
Toll Free: (888) 422-1608