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Orthotics
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Footmaxx Allsport Orthotic |
What are Orthotics?
Orthotics are orthopedic devices designed to treat or adjust various biomechanical foot disorders.
While simple, commercially-made devices such as heel cushions, or shock absorbing insoles for shoes can be purchased over-the-counter in drug stores or other retail establishments, the most effective orthotics are custom-designed devices specifically crafted to meet the needs of the particular individual. It is these custom-tailored orthotics that we recommend and prescribe at Back to Health.
In our clinic our custom-made orthotics are designed from the gait analysis software assessment of the feet (see Gait Analysis/ Foot Scan). This information is then transmitted via modem to the Footmaxx laboratory or The Orthotic Group where it is further analyzed to evaluate the biomechanical problems of the feet. The Metascan software specifies a prescription for your custom foot orthotics. The orthotics are constructed from materials which allow for thinness while providing strength and durability. The materials will vary depending on the type and style of orthotics which are ordered. Once the orthotics are designed they are sent back to the clinic for an alignment evaluation with the Kinesiologist to ensure the proper fit and design. The footwear is an integral part of the assessment. Depending on the patients needs shock absorptive accommodations and metatarsal padding may be necessary.
Will the Orthotics fit into all of my shoes?
That depends on the orthotics you need and the types of shoes you typically wear.
For example the Footmaxx Allsport orthotic (shown in the picture above) is designed with an athletic shoe in mind since that type of shoe generally has a fully-removable insole. There is a variety of dress shoes, both men's and women's, which have removable insoles and the allsport orthotic also seems to work well in those types of shoes.
However, some dress shoes do not have removable insoles or have a very narrow toe box, so that the orthotic has to be more streamlined and thin to fit properly in the shoe. In this case, dress-shoe orthotics are a better fit.
There is a selection of specialty orthotics available for specific sporting activities such as skiing, running, hockey, basketball, football, tennis, soccer and cycling. There are also orthotics which are designed with the elderly in mind (Arthritic feet), or with a special top coat to accommodate sensitive diabetic feet.
How much do they cost?
The orthotics cost $405.00 per pair. We also carry specialty professional orthotics and arthritic orthotics. We have a variety of orthotic shoes and sandals available as well. Orthotic shoes cost $475.00 and orthotic sandals cost $455.00. Make sure you check your extended health care coverage because a lot of insurance policies will fully cover or partially cover the cost of orthotics. Some extended health care policies require a medical doctor's referral before you can submit invoices for orthotics, but this referral is not necessary to visit the kinesiologist.
How long do they last?
Orthotics should last one to two years. The orthotics should be rechecked at the one-year point to make sure they are still providing adequate support. The reason they only last a couple of years is that they eventually with regular wear and tear the orthotic will conform to your feet because they are only semi-rigid in materials. If you are wearing orthotics which are more than two years old they are probably not providing enough support.
Types of Orthotics
At Back to Health, we prescribe the Footmaxx orthotic range. Please go to Footmaxx's web site for details on the types of orthotics available.
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