What are custom orthotics?
Custom orthotics are medical devices that are specially designed to fit the unique shape of your feet. Worn inside your shoes, they help improve foot alignment, provide support, redistribute pressure, and enhance the way your feet and lower body move during standing, walking, and physical activity.
Do I need a Doctor’s Referral to see a Physiotherapist to be fitted for Custom Orthotics?
The answer depends on your insurance provider.
Yes, some extended health insurance providers require a prescription from your doctor in order to reimburse you for custom orthotics. Because coverage requirements vary between plans, we recommend checking with your insurance provider to confirm the specific requirements of your benefits before your appointment.
Please note, we do NOT provide direct billing for custom orthotics.
How are custom orthotics different from over-the-counter insoles?
Unlike prefabricated insoles, custom orthotics are made specifically for your feet based on a comprehensive assessment. They are designed to address your individual foot mechanics, movement patterns, and specific condition, providing a more personalized level of support and comfort.
Who can benefit from custom orthotics?
Custom orthotics may benefit people experiencing:
- Heel pain or plantar fasciitis
- Flat feet or high arches
- Foot or ankle pain
- Knee, hip, or lower back pain related to foot mechanics
- Tendon injuries
- Arthritis Diabetes-related foot concerns (when appropriate)
- Sports-related overuse injuries
- Standing or walking discomfort
Your healthcare provider will determine whether custom orthotics are appropriate for your condition.
What conditions can custom orthotics help treat?
Custom orthotics are commonly prescribed to help manage conditions such as:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendinopathy
- Shin splints
- Metatarsalgia Bunions
- Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
- Patellofemoral pain
- Foot fatigue
- Biomechanical abnormalities that contribute to pain or injury
What happens during a custom orthotics assessment?
Your assessment includes a review of your medical history, symptoms, lifestyle, footwear, and activity level. Your clinician will evaluate your posture, walking pattern, foot mechanics, range of motion, and lower limb alignment. If custom orthotics are recommended, a digital scan of your feet will be taken to create your orthotics.
How long does it take to receive my orthotics?
Custom orthotics are manufactured specifically for you after your assessment. Turnaround time varies depending on the laboratory, but most orthotics are ready within a few weeks. We will contact you as soon as they arrive for your fitting appointment.
Will it take time to get used to my orthotics?
Yes. Most people need a short adjustment period as their body adapts to the new support. Your clinician will provide instructions on gradually increasing the amount of time you wear your orthotics each day.
Do custom orthotics fit in all shoes?
Custom orthotics fit in many types of footwear, but some shoes provide more room than others. Athletic shoes, walking shoes, and supportive everyday footwear typically work best. If you wear dress shoes, work boots, or specialized footwear, let your clinician know so this can be considered during the assessment.
How long do custom orthotics last?
The lifespan of custom orthotics depends on factors such as your activity level, body weight, footwear, and how often they are worn. Many orthotics last several years with proper care, though periodic reassessment is recommended to ensure they continue to meet your needs.
How do I care for my custom orthotics?
Keep your orthotics clean by wiping them with a damp cloth and allowing them to air dry. Avoid exposing them to excessive heat or soaking them in water, as this may damage the materials. Regularly inspect them for signs of wear.
Will I need follow-up appointments?
Yes. Follow-up visits allow your clinician to ensure your orthotics fit properly, are comfortable, and are providing the intended support. Minor adjustments can often be made if needed.
Are custom orthotics covered by insurance?
Many extended health benefit plans provide coverage for custom orthotics. Coverage requirements vary and may include a prescription from a physician or nurse practitioner. We recommend checking your policy to confirm your coverage and any documentation requirements before your appointment.
Please note we do not provide direct billing to insurance for Custom Orthotics, but you will be provided with a detailed receipt to submit to your insurance provider.
Do I need a prescription for custom orthotics?
Some insurance providers require a prescription for reimbursement, while others do not. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to determine whether a prescription is needed prior to your custom orthotics appointment.
Can children benefit from custom orthotics?
Yes. In some cases, children with foot pain, gait concerns, or certain lower limb conditions may benefit from custom orthotics. A comprehensive assessment is important to determine whether orthotics are appropriate, as many children's feet develop naturally over time.
Can athletes benefit from custom orthotics?
Absolutely. Custom orthotics may help improve comfort, reduce excessive stress on the feet and lower limbs, and support more efficient movement during training and competition. They are often used as part of a comprehensive injury prevention or rehabilitation program.
Will custom orthotics cure my pain?
Custom orthotics are one component of a comprehensive treatment plan. While they can help reduce pain and improve function for many people, the best outcomes are often achieved when orthotics are combined with appropriate exercises, education, footwear recommendations, and other treatments when needed.
Why choose One Wellness for custom orthotics?
At One Wellness, we take a comprehensive approach to foot and lower limb health. Your assessment includes an evaluation of your movement, posture, gait, and overall biomechanics to determine whether custom orthotics are the right solution for you. When appropriate, we combine orthotics with exercise, rehabilitation, and other healthcare services to help address the underlying cause of your symptoms and support long-term recovery.
