Custom Orthotics

Custom insoles are a type of orthotic device inserted into your shoe. They can be used as a general support for our feet, but are clinically most helpful for those with foot pain and foot function problems. There are many types of foot function problems that exist, and often they can cause foot, knee, hip, and low back pain. Orthotics work by either fixing these foot function issues, or by minimizing how much these issues effect our body.

Custom orthotics are created by:

• Taking a mold of the foot through foam, plaster, or digital casting.

• Giving the orthotic lab instructions to design the most optimal orthotic for the individual and problem at hand.

Designing the best orthotic is a combination of understanding the persons pain and body mechanics, and orthotic-specific adjustments. These adjustments include deciding what shell thickness is needed (balancing support vs comfort), and what orthotic-specific modifications are needed.

There are many orthotic modifications that can make or break how effective an orthotic is for a given person. Some examples a include higher heel support, a more rigid support under one or more toes, an angled heel support to reduce pressure on one part of the knee, or a softer padding surface for the heel. Each one of these will be helpful in different situations, and is done on a case-by-case basis.

Custom orthotics or insoles by definition involve some sort of foot mold and assessment process, and individualized manufacturing of the orthotic based on that information. They are a clinical treatment tool and involve expertise to properly design and prescribe. Importantly they are made of relatively rigid materials that have the strength to support the foot where needed. As such custom insoles are more expensive and often last for years.

Over the counter orthotics on the other hand are mass produced inserts that are more like an alternative to your shoes original insole. They are made of a softer gel material and do not have the strength to properly support or modify foot function. Therefore they can feel comfortable to stand on, but don’t make clinical changes in pain and foot function. These orthotics are relatively cheap and can be bought at many retailers, often lasting a few months to a year depending on how much they are used.

Most extended health providers cover orthotics. Plans range from covering $200 to $500 or more, usually a pair every year or two.

In order to get reimbursed for a pair of orthotics, you must submit the invoice for the orthotics plus a biomechanical prescription from a healthcare professional. Although you have to pay out of pocket initially, reimbursement is quick and typically happens within a week.

While nearly all benefits providers in Canada consider chiropractors as experts trained to order and dispense orthotics, a few plans also require a medical doctor or podiatrist prescription for reimbursement.

If you aren’t sure about your coverage, check your plan under the Orthotics / Orthopedic shoe section to see what you’re covered for. Note that this coverage is separate from any chiropractic, physio, RMT, or other treatment services and does not impact your ability to access these services.