Frequently Asked Questions

Custom foot orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that help correct or support the function of the feet. They can address various issues related to foot alignment, biomechanics, and comfort. Our orthotics contain multiple materials, such as EVA, neoprene, plastazote and polyethylene. A pedorthist will choose the best materials to address the patient’s unique needs and foot characteristics.

Supporting the Arch: Many orthotics are designed to provide support to the arch of the foot. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with flat feet or fallen arches. By lifting and supporting the arch, orthotics help distribute body weight more evenly across the foot, reducing stress on the arch and surrounding structures.

Alleviating Pressure: Orthotics can be customized to redistribute pressure on specific areas of the foot. This is especially useful for conditions like plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, or heel spurs, where excessive pressure on certain parts of the foot can lead to pain and discomfort. Orthotics can help reduce pressure on these sensitive areas.

Correcting Gait Abnormalities: Foot orthotics are often used to address biomechanical issues that affect the way a person walks or runs. They can correct problems such as overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot), supination (insufficient inward rolling), or irregular foot movements. By optimizing the gait, orthotics can reduce strain on the feet and lower limbs.

Stabilizing the Foot: Some orthotics are designed to stabilize the foot and ankle. This can be important for individuals with conditions like ankle instability or weak arches. Stabilization can help prevent ankle sprains and other injuries.

Cushioning and Shock Absorption: Orthotics can incorporate cushioning materials, such as gel or foam, to provide additional comfort and shock absorption. This is especially useful for individuals who spend long hours on their feet or engage in high-impact activities like running.

Improving Posture: Proper foot alignment facilitated by orthotics can have a positive impact on overall body posture. By addressing foot issues, orthotics can help reduce stress on the knees, hips, and lower back, potentially alleviating pain in these areas.

Customization: Custom-made orthotics are designed to address an individual’s specific foot shape and issues. They are created based on a podiatrist’s or orthopedic specialist’s assessment of the patient’s feet, gait, and biomechanics. Customization ensures a tailored fit and optimal support.

Pain Relief: Ultimately, the primary goal of orthotics is to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with various foot conditions. Whether it’s heel pain, arch pain, or pain caused by structural issues, orthotics aim to provide relief and improve overall foot function.

It’s important to note that not all orthotics are the same, and the type of orthotic needed depends on an individual’s specific foot issues and goals. Over-the-counter orthotics may provide some relief for minor issues, while custom-made orthotics are typically recommended for more severe or complex foot problems. To determine the most suitable orthotic for your needs, consult with a healthcare professional, such as a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist, who can assess your foot condition and provide personalized recommendations.

If you have insurance benefits that cover custom orthotics, the insurance company will require a prescription written by a medical professional (family doctor, orthopaedic surgeon, rheumatologist, etc.), but you do not need this to see us initially. Insurance companies require the prescription to be dated prior to your orthotics being dispensed to you. If you are unsure if your insurance company will require a prescription, it is best to contact them directly.

Yes, most insurance companies will cover a portion, if not all, of the custom orthotic cost. However, the amount they cover will vary between companies and your individual insurance plan. If you are wondering about your coverage, contact your insurance provider before your appointment so that you can make an informed decision. We do not have access to your coverage or plan. At your first visit, if orthotics are chosen, we will provide you with an receipt. At your orthotic pick-up appointment, we will provide you with a detailed insurance report, which will include:

• Biomechanical assessment
• Gait analysis findings
• Laboratory/manufacturing and raw materials information
• Your pedorthists credentials, certification and device dispensed date

Depending on the orthotic materials used, we commonly advise that an orthotic should last anywhere from 2-4 years. The “guts” or “structure” of the orthotic should remain very close to their original form for quite some time, but the cushioning materials will compress with wear. When it comes to the longevity of the cushioning materials, this will vary drastically depending on factors such as how often you are wearing your orthotics and the type of materials your orthotics are constructed from.

The simple answer is no, orthotics should never hurt or cause an increase in discomfort. While transitioning into a new pair of orthotics, you may experience some tiredness or fatigue in your feet/lower limbs. However, there should not be NEW pain, INCREASE in pain or a CHANGE in pain (for example, knee pain that wasn’t there before). Over the first week, we commonly advise that you break your orthotics in slowly rather than wear them 100% of the time. This allows your feet and body to transition and use this new and noticeable support slowly.

When implemented and used correctly, custom-made foot orthotics can provide a lot of relief for various issues. Knowing there’s no “one size fits all” solution is important. Two people with similar feet and issues can wind up with very different orthotics and treatment plans. Knowing that we’re all our own puzzle that needs to be solved in order to be comfortable, pain and injury-free, we think about orthotics like this:

1. Your pain is caused directly by the way you move and by the pressure on your bones/soft tissue. When bones, muscles, ligaments and fascia are overloaded too often or for too long, pain and injury may occur.
2. You can not heal because your mechanics are contributing to repetitive stress on the injured area. Take the flat foot, for instance. It may not cause injury, but if you have one and get injured, the constant stress on the soft tissue may delay or inhibit your ability to heal.

It should be noted that custom orthotics should not be thought of as a “first line of defence” for acute injuries. For instance, if you are struggling with heel pain related to plantar fasciitis, modalities such as footwear, over-the-counter orthotics, ice/heat, and tissue-specific exercises should be attempted before jumping to a custom orthotic.

Custom orthotics and off-the-shelf insoles (also known as OTS orthotics) are designed to support and alleviate foot-related issues. They differ significantly in terms of customization, cost, and effectiveness. Here are the critical differences between custom orthotics and off-the-shelf inserts:

Custom Orthotics

1. Customization: Custom orthotics are tailored to the wearer’s specific needs. They are designed based on a detailed assessment of the individual’s feet, gait, and biomechanics. Foam box impressions or scans of the feet are used to create orthotics complimenting the person’s foot shape and addressing their unique issues.
   
2. Effectiveness: Custom orthotics are highly effective when used to aid in treating complex foot problems and biomechanical issues. They can provide targeted support and correction for conditions such as severe overpronation, supination, plantar fasciitis, or structural abnormalities.
3. Materials: Custom orthotics are made from various materials, including polyethylene, EVA, cork, and other cushioning materials, that work best with the individual’s needs and activity level.
4. Cost: Custom orthotics are more expensive than off-the-shelf inserts. This cost typically includes the initial assessment, production of the custom device and follow-up adjustments.
5. Longevity: Custom orthotics are generally more durable and longer-lasting than off-the-shelf inserts. Custom orthotics can often last for years.
6. Insurance Coverage: In some cases, health insurance may partially or fully cover the cost of custom orthotics when prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Off-the-Shelf Insoles (OTS)

1. Standard Sizing: Off-the-shelf insoles are mass-produced and come in standard sizes, typically based on shoe sizes. They usually do not offer any type of customization.
2. Basic Foot Support: Off-the-shelf insoles can provide general support and cushioning, but they are not designed to address complex or severe foot issues. They are better suited for mild to moderate discomfort or as preventive measures.
3. Materials: OTS insoles are produced using generic materials such as EVA foam, gel, or silicone.
4. Cost: Off-the-shelf inserts are more affordable, making them cost-effective for individuals with minor foot discomfort or those seeking preventive support.
5. Availability: OTS insoles are readily available at drugstores, supermarkets, and online retailers, making them easily accessible to consumers.
6. Limited Insurance Coverage: Off-the-shelf insoles are typically not covered by health insurance.

In summary, the main difference between custom orthotics and off-the-shelf insoles lies in their level of customization and the scope of foot issues they can address. Custom orthotics should be used for individuals with specific foot conditions or biomechanical abnormalities. At the same time, off-the-shelf inserts are a more economical and accessible option for general support and comfort. The choice between the two depends on the severity of the foot problem, your budget, and the recommendation of a healthcare professional.

Custom orthotics are made around a three-dimensional cast of your foot and can be considered accommodative or corrective. These are designed from raw materials and are unique to the individual patient and their specific needs. To meet this classification, orthopeadic footwear (both pre-fabricated and custom) must meet certain characteristics.

This will vary for individuals and the intended use of your orthotics. For individuals struggling with more acute problems such as plantar fasciitis or tendonitis, an orthotic may be one of many modalities used to get the pathology under control, then slowly taper away from the support. However, suppose you are dealing with a chronic condition (arthritis, diabetic foot complications, leg length discrepancy). In that case, it may be more beneficial to be in your orthotics as consistently as possible. You may experience added relief in your orthotics rather than being without them.

Yes and no. What we mean by this is that most footwear options with a removable insole can accommodate an orthotic, but just because the insole comes out doesn’t mean it is the best option for you. We recommend footwear options with a removable insole that will aid in your treatment plan as they relate to your foot structure, mechanics and pathology. We do this to ensure a proper fit of the orthotic and that we are taking the best approach to getting you comfortable. Make sure to talk to your SoleScience pedorthist about the footwear options you wish to use for your orthotics so that they can ensure a proper fit and function.

It is important to note that we commonly refer to the 80:20 rule for utilizing your orthotics. This means that we focus on the footwear options that you are in 80% of the time rather than 20% of the time. For instance, if you are a construction worker, we will likely focus on ensuring the orthotics work well in your work shoes, rather than a pair of dress shoes you may wear to dinner once a month.

No, not all orthotics are the same. There is a large amount of variability when it comes to custom-made orthotics. Depending on the issue and what we are trying to achieve, the material selection can vary from being very firm and structured, to soft and cushioned. Each custom-made orthotic is made specifically for the individual. From the casting technique and manufacturing process, to material selection and orthotic adjustments, each custom made orthotic is specifically designed and tailored to the patient.

If the discomfort you have been experiencing is a running injury (something that gets worse the more you run or as the result of running), you may need to use orthotics while being active. If you are experiencing discomfort day-to-day at work but can run pain-free, you may not need to use the orthotics for your runs. However, if you plan to run in your orthotics, be sure you tell your pedorthist so they can consider this when designing your orthotics. Prior to using your orthotics for running, we advise you to get accustomed to using them day-to-day, first. This “break-in” period will allow you to get used to the new and noticeable support being placed under your foot, before going out and placing increased load on the orthotic.