Orthotic Review

Did you know that your orthotics should be examined at regular intervals, even if they are comfortable?

Your orthotics have an extremely important job to do. An average person takes 8000 to 10000 steps per day. During running 3 to 5 times your body weight goes through each foot with each step. Consider the fact that the foot strikes the ground up to 15000 times per day absorbing the equivalent of over 600 tonnes of force. Your orthotics must help your feet function more efficiently during the gait cycle, so you can enjoy pain-free, comfortable activities.

However, orthotics (and feet) change as time goes by. You may not notice these changes, but if your orthotics are not maintained they can lead to difficulties with foot function. Children continue to grow up until 21 years old. As the foot grows, the position of the joints changes and the orthotics no longer control the specific joint segments required for biomechanical efficiency. Children 6 years old and under should be reviewed every 6 months and children older than 6 should be reviewed yearly. Our Podiatrists at ‘Eastwest’ can detect changes to your orthotics and avoid possible problems before they start. I

f your orthotics haven’t been checked in the last year it’s time for us to check them for signs of excessive wear. We’ll make sure they fit correctly and advise you if you need to have them modified, repaired or replaced. We’ll discuss with you any problems or changes you may be experiencing.
 

Our comprehensive orthotic check-up includes:

• Complete evaluation of your feet
• Orthotic wear pattern evaluation (Evaluation for wear that could affect function)
• Evaluation of how well your orthotics conform to your feet (orthotics can flatten over time which reduces their ability to support your foot correctly)
• Check that they provide proper biomechanical function to best help your symptoms
• Inspection of orthotic modifications (covers, cushions and pads)
• Evaluation of whether orthotics fit properly into your shoes
• Evaluation of your shoes and recommendations on proper shoes

Most of the time we can repair and update your orthotics right in our office. Occasionally we will recommend sending them out for a complete refurbishment. And sometimes we will recommend that it is time for a new pair of orthotics. If you would like specialty orthotics,

to fit into dress shoes, sandals or ski boots for example, we can discuss that too.

Remember to treat your orthotics well, because they’re really part of your feet. Make an appointment today for your orthotic check-up. Be sure to bring samples of your shoes with you and your orthotics. We’re looking forward to hearing from you.