Seeking out a Certified Pedorthist is a great first step, Elevate Orthotics offers complimentary consultations to assess your mechanics and help determine if orthotics would help you.
Orthotics are not covered by Alberta health however typically extended health benefits do. Check your coverage documents or call your provider and they can help determine if you have coverage.
It is the patient’s responsibility to investigate their benefit plans and determine what is covered and what they require. However typically most insurance companies require a prescription from a medical doctor, a biomechanical findings report, detailed invoice and raw materials document.Elevate Orthotics provides the latter of the three documents.
The consultation takes approximately 30mins-45mins in length, the Pedorthist will conduct an in depth history, functional movement testing, biomechanical and gait analysis. If orthotics are deemed necessary, a 3D plaster slipper cast will be taken of the feet in which will be used to make the orthotics.
Two weeks
Podiatrists are medical doctors specialized in the diagnosis, medical and surgical treatment of the lower extremity. Whereas Pedorthists are foot orthotic and orthopaedic footwear specialists. Pedorthists are trained in the assessment of lower limb anatomy and muscle and joint function.
Over the counter orthotics are those found in a drug or grocery store. They are a great solution for when you require extra cushioning in the shoe, skate or boot. They do not however correct the mechanics of the feet.
Custom orthotics on the other hand are made specifically for your needs, and can be used to treat a wide range of ailments such as heel pain, plantar fasciitis, achilles pain, knee pain, back pain, etc.
Yes, the best way to clean them is a damp cloth with a mild soap. Then let them air-dry overnight.
This will vary from patient to patient. Activity level, foot structure, age, all impact the lifespan of an orthotic.