FAQ's

Q. How many bones are in a foot?

The foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments and 19 muscles.

Q. What do foot orthotics actually do?

A. Prescription foot orthoses ( commonly called "orthotics") are precision medical devices that adjust and control the function of the foot and it's alignment with the lower leg. They are used to treat/prevent injury causing motions like excessive pronation (collapsing in) and supination (rolling out) and make standing, walking and running more effective. Some orthotics are designed to redistribute pressures on the bottom of your foot to alleviate pain from corns, calluses and bony prominences.

Q. What about the orthotics I see in the drug stores, mall kiosks, stands at the consumer shows or on late night TV?

A. A TV infomercial? What would your mother say? Seriously - of the many commercially available insoles referred to as "orthotics", some are quality products made by reputable companies while others are "dressed up" simple insoles sold at irresponsibly inflated prices. The hard part is telling the difference. Getting the right orthotic for you begins with a thorough examination by a qualified heath care professional. Real custom-made prescription foot orthotics are made from a plaster cast  (or impression foam material) taken by a trained professional and made in a qualified, accredited Lab.

Q. Do orthotics transfer from one pair of shoes to another?

A.Yes, they can be transferred between similar types of shoes. For example: if they were made primarily for athletic or walking type shoes, you can easily move them to another shoe of this type. However, you likely wouldn't be able to fit them in dress shoes (including high heels) or specialized footwear like ski boots or skates. Talk to your foot health care professional about orthotics specifically designed for other shoe types.

Q. Will I have to wear orthotics for the rest of my life?

A. Chances are that when your pain is resolved, you may be able to go without them. However, your foot health care professional may recommend you keep wearing them to keep your feet and legs properly aligned so as to prevent problems from recurring.

Q. What is the difference between a Pedorthist and a Podiatrist?

A. Pedorthists are allied health care professionals (combination of academic and technical training) who specialize in manufacturing, fitting, and modifying foot appliances (orthotics) and footwear for the purposes of alleviating painful or debilitating conditions of the lower limb. Certified pedorthists' services are available only by prescription from a qualified health care professional.

Podiatrist are foot health care professionals (university/college based graduate program with residency training) who specialize in diagnosing, treating and preventing a variety of foot and ankle conditions including those for which foot orthotics are commonly prescribed. many podiatrists and chiropodists prescribe and dispense foot orthotics directly from their practice and are experts in offering overall foot health care advice.

Q. What tips should I follow when shopping for shoes?

A. Chances are the shoe that feels the best to wear is the one that fits.Remember to always try on both shoes, preferably in the afternoon, as feet tend to swell as the day goes on. Buy shoes for the larger foot and be sure to walk around the store to make sure they are comfortable. Properly fitting  shoes should not need to have a "break" in period -  the heel should fit snugly, the instep should not gape open, and there should be 1/4" - 1/2" between the end of the big toe and the front of the shoe. The most important tip is to buy  your shoes from an established retailer with a reputation for good customer service and Staff that are qualified to fit shoes properly.

Q. How do I take care of my orthotics?

A. Do not expose your orthotics to high heat (eg. space or baseboard heaters, dryers, fireplaces, etc.).  As well, it is recommended that you regularily take your orthotics out of your shoes to allow them to air out.  Your orthotics can be washed with mild soap and warm water and then air dried. 

Q. How long should my orthotics last?

A. The effective life of rigid and semi-rigid orthotics is 3 to 5 years for most adults.  Children's and adolescents' orthotics should be replaced each time their feet grow by 1 to 2 shoe sizes.