Prescription Custom Foot Orthotics (PCFO)
Balanced Feet = Balanced Lifestyle!
Prescription custom-made orthotics adapt to your unique foot structure, evening out foot pressures, relieving foot pain, preserving joint function, and reducing the severity of painful corns and calluses.
While orthotics can significantly improve foot health and comfort, addressing any conditions above the feet, such as issues with the ankle, knee, hip, and spine, is also important. Working with other health professionals, such as physiotherapists, chiropractors, or orthopedic specialists, can provide a comprehensive approach to your overall health and enhance the effectiveness of your treatment. Hence, do not see a prescription custom orthotics as an isolated means to provide relief. You should work on other aspects of your overall musculoskeletal health.
The PCFO Process
Biomechanical Assessment, Prescribing, Manufacturing, Dispensing, Paperwork, Follow-up
The PCFO process consists of performing a detailed biomechanical assessment, gait analysis, and scanning your feet on a 3-dimensional scanning device. Based on these assessments, an orthotic prescription is sent to an accredited orthotic lab along with the foot scans to manufacture the orthotics. Orthotics once received will be verified and an orthotic dispense appointment will be arranged at your convenience. You will arrive with a pair of shoes that are activity-specific, one size higher, and in good condition for orthotic fitting inside the shoes for the best outcomes. Orthotics will be dispensed, break-in advice will be discussed, insurance paperwork provided, and a follow-up appointment will be arranged to monitor your feet.
The PCFO Process
Balanced Feet, Balanced Life — Zoom In to See How We Help!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Prescription Custom Foot Orthotics (PCFO)
A PCFO is a medical device prescribed for established medical necessity only
1. Who can prescribe custom orthotics?
In Ontario, only regulated health professionals, such as chiropodists, podiatrists, and physicians, are qualified to prescribe custom orthotics. Chiropodists and podiatrists, in particular, have specialized training in foot health and biomechanics, and they are regulated by the College of Chiropodists of Ontario (COCOO), which ensures they adhere to strict guidelines.
Other healthcare professionals, like physiotherapists and chiropractors, may recommend orthotics as part of broader care, but the full assessment, prescription, and dispensing of custom orthotics fall within the exclusive scope of chiropodists and podiatrists. Seeking a prescription from a regulated health professional ensures that your orthotics are tailored to your specific needs and meet clinical standards.
2. What is an initial assessment appointment?
This is for any patient seen at our clinic for the first time or returning after two years of no follow-ups.
3. What is the purpose of the initial assessment appointment?
During the initial assessment, we take time to understand your foot mechanics, medical history, and any specific issues like pain or discomfort. This thorough evaluation forms the foundation for deciding the short, mid, and long-term treatment goals for your foot health needs. This also helps us determine whether orthotics might be one of the treatment options for you and to explore other treatment options if needed. Your foot health is unique, and this thorough evaluation ensures we provide the most effective care.
If you need an orthotic, you will be given an appointment for a biomechanical assessment appointment.
4. What happens in a biomechanical assessment appointment?
This is the appointment where the PCFO process starts with your consent, non-weight bearing and weight bearing biomechanical assessment, appropriate measurements, gait analysis, 3-D foot scans, appropriate device selection, orthotic prescription, insurance paperwork, and order submission to an accredited orthotic laboratory to custom-make your prescription orthotics.
5. What if I already have a doctor's prescription or have been using orthotics for years?
Even with a doctor's prescription or long-term use of orthotics, we conduct our initial and biomechanical assessment. Foot health and biomechanics can change over time, and an updated assessment ensures that the orthotics will meet your current needs.
6. What is an orthotic dispensing appointment?
This is the appointment when we would fit the orthotics inside your shoes and explain to you the break-in period and other instructions. We will contact you to come for an orthotic dispense appointment after we have verified your orthotics. The turn-around time could be anywhere from two to three weeks.
7. Can you mail the orthotics to my home or can I send someone to collect them from your office?
Sorry, you need to attend an in-person dispense appointment with appropriate shoes to have the orthotics fitted in them.
8. What would be the cost to get custom orthotics?
At present, custom orthotics at our clinic cost $600. This cost includes all three appointments (biomechanical assessment, dispense, and one follow-up), gait analysis, 3-D foot scans, orthotic prescription, device and material selection, custom-made orthotics, and insurance paperwork.
8. Is insurance coverage available for orthotics?
Many insurance plans cover custom orthotics, but the coverage varies. We recommend you check with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage. We provide the necessary documentation for your claim. We do not do direct billing.
9. How long do orthotics last?
Custom orthotics typically last 1 to 2 years, depending on usage and wear. We recommend regular follow-up visits to ensure your orthotics continue to provide the necessary support.
9. If I need to renew my orthotics or order another pair, do I still have to have an initial assessment?
No, as we mentioned before, initial assessment is only for new patients or patients who did not return to the clinic for two years for any follow-ups. You will only need appointments for biomechanical assessments, dispensing, and follow-up.
10. Do you sell shoes or offer free products with orthotics?
We do not sell shoes or provide free items with orthotics. Our focus is on delivering high-quality foot care and custom orthotics. Shoes are not included as part of our services.
11. Do you offer discounts on orthotics?
We do not offer discounts or promotions on orthotics. Our pricing reflects the quality, care, and ethical compliance required to create effective orthotic devices to meet your medical necessities.
12. What if I can't afford custom orthotics?
Book an initial assessment to thoroughly evaluate your foot health. While Prescription Custom Foot Orthotics (PCFO) may be an option, the assessment will determine if they're necessary or if other treatments are more suitable. If cost is a concern, we can explore alternatives such as treatments, footwear modifications, or exercises, and work together to find a solution that fits both your current needs and budget.
