FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is a Certified Pedorthist?

This is the most common question we get asked. A Certified Pedorthist is a specialist in assessing lower-limb skeletal alignment, movement patterns, general foot function and how the feet interact with the rest of the body. Pedorthists are one of the few health professionals educated and trained exclusively in designing, manufacturing and fitting custom foot orthotics and footwear for the purposes of treating and preventing debilitating conditions related to foot and lower-limb function. A Canadian Board Certified Pedorthist must complete a two-year post-graduate clinical practicum before challenging the National exams administered by the College of Pedorthics of Canada.
For more information please visit the College of Pedorthics of Canada website at www.pedorthics.ca

What are custom foot orthotics?

Custom foot orthotics are precision medical devices used to treat and prevent injuries and painful conditions related to foot and lower-limb function. Placed inside your footwear, foot orthotics help to correct foot position; maintain or improve skeletal alignment of the feet, legs and hips; redistribute pressure; increase shock absorption; and improve general foot function. Custom foot orthotics need to be custom casted, designed and manufactured for your specific individual needs. To achieve this, a three-dimensional cast or mold of your feet must be taken, usually using plaster or a material called impression foam. A truly custom foot orthotic cannot be manufactured or designed by stepping onto a mat or ink pad on the floor. Your feet should be held by the health practitioner in a specific position relative to your specific skeletal alignment and body, then the cast should be taken.

What are biomechanics?

Biomechanics as defined by most dictionaries is the study of the mechanics of biological movement and especially muscular activity as it relates to locomotion and exercise. More specifically to humans, it is a person’s movement patterns and tendencies due to their skeletal, ligamentous, musculotendinous, and myofascial anatomy. Put simply, what happens to the joint and soft-tissue structures in and around your feet, ankles, lower legs, knees, upper legs, and hips when you stand, walk, run, bike, hike, etc.

How much do custom foot orthotics cost?

Custom foot orthotic prices vary based on an individual’s specific needs but generally range in price from $300 to $500.

Does BC Medical (MSP) cover the cost of custom foot orthotics or the cost of an assessment?

BC Medical does not pay for custom foot orthotics or for a Pedorthic assessment. The majority of extended medical plans offered by employers cover some or most of the cost of custom foot orthotics. Please verify with your extended health provider (extended health insurance company) whether your plan has coverage for custom foot orthotics.

How can I find out if I am covered by my extended health insurance policy?

As a policy holder, it is always advisable to call your insurance company directly to ask specifically about the item(s) you have been recommended.
Active Orthopaedic will provide you with all the paperwork required by your insurance company to allow your claim to be processed as quickly as possible.

Do I have to get orthotics or any other product recommended to me if I come in for an assessment?

Absolutely not! During your assessment we will determine whether or not you would benefit from custom foot orthotics, off-the-shelf insoles, or other products such as braces and soft-tissue release products. It is your choice what you do or do not purchase. It is our goal to ensure you are educated and empowered to make the right decision for your health.

Does everyone need custom foot orthotics?

No. Custom orthotics are not for everyone. Many people simply require different or more appropriate shoes for their specific needs. Some people only need an off-the-shelf (aka non-custom) insole or footbed. And others might require stretching and/or exercises for their lower limbs or even referral to another health professional such as a chiropractor, podiatrist, physiotherapist, or massage therapist. This is why getting assessed by a health professional such as a Certified Pedorthist, who is trained exclusively in foot and lower-limb biomechanics, is so important. Assessing exactly what each person needs is an involved process that requires a thorough understanding of the relationship of your feet to the rest of your body and your overall health.