Foot Orthoses - Arch Supports
Your feet are with you for life. They form the
"base of support" and act as the foundation for your body. Most people rarely
give their feet a second thought. What happens, though, when the foundation starts to show
signs of strain? What is the best way to ease this pain? Some people try "home
remedies" such as foot baths and massage, various medications available "off the
shelf" and many other treatments. Most are unsuccessful and just allow the pain to
increase.
Many people who suffer with these problems do so
because of a muscle or bone problem within the foot or ankle. Each foot contains 27
bones and numerous muscular structures. How well they function together determines how
your feet feel. Imbalances or abnormal motion can lead to a number of conditions
such as bunions, calcaneal (heel) spurs, hammer-toes, plantar fasciitis, corns and calluses. These
conditions can contribute to problems "higher up" such as knee and hip pain,
lower back aches and even headaches.
What's the Solution?
Foot orthoses - AAAaahhhh. Sometimes
called arch supports, foot orthoses are custom made
devices which act to control (or limit) motion in a dynamic setting. By improving the
biomechanical function of each foot during gait (a
person's walking pattern) orthoses help to alleviate the wearer's foot problems. Because
everybody has different feet, they must be custom made. Most often, the individual is
referred by a doctor for a thorough assessment by a Certified Orthotist. Once this has
been done and the problem is determined, a cast or impression is taken of each foot and
the orthoses are fabricated. Although you may have the same "problem" as
somebody else everyone has unique feet. Custom foot orthoses are necessary.
Do I wear Foot Orthoses Forever?
The condition being addressed really determines the
wearing period required. Some clients find their orthoses are unnecessary after a period
of time; other people feel more comfortable by continuing with their supports.
How Much do Orthoses Cost?
The cost involved with making foot orthoses varies
depending upon several factors. Orthotic design, materials, time and size are all
contributing factors. In general, the cost usually ranges between $ 185 and $ 345 per
pair. This price includes consultation, assessment and follow-up appointments.
Unfortunately the Ontario Ministry of Health does not fund foot orthoses even though they
are medically necessary as prescribed by your doctor. Most health insurance plans will
fund foot orthoses in full or in part. In the event that your require alternative funding
assistance the staff at Algonquin
Orthopaedics can assist you in a
confidential search for alternative funding sources.
Simple to Complex
As mentioned earlier, the reasons for foot problems
vary from person to person. These conditions may be easy to control or may be complex in
nature. At Algonquin Orthopaedics we are available to discuss and recommend solutions to your
individual foot problems.
Consultations are free of charge and no referral is
necessary. Service is provided to all age groups and we have a flexible appointment
schedule.
Algonquin
Orthopaedics 