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What are custom orthotics?

Custom orthotics are specialized devices designed to provide personalized support and correction for foot-related problems, alignment issues, or discomfort. At the Adelaide Health Clinic, these orthotics are custom-made to address an individual's specific foot structure and gait - how a person walks.

These are distinct from over-the-counter insoles or arch supports, which are mass-produced and not tailored to an individual's unique foot characteristics. Custom orthotics are created following a detailed evaluation and assessment by a healthcare professional, usually a podiatrist, orthopedic specialist, or orthotist.

When can custom orthotics help?

Used to address a variety of foot-related conditions and musculoskeletal issues, as well as provide support and relief for the lower extremities, custom orthotics can help with a number of conditions, including:

- Flat feet: providing arch support and help distribute weight and pressure more evenly for thsoe with flat feet or fallen arches
- High arches: offer cushioning and shock absorption to alleviate discomfort and improve stability
- Plantar fasciitis: provide support and reduce strain, relieving heel pain
- Overpronation or supination: used to correct abnormal gait patterns by realigning the feet and ankles, thereby reducing risk of injury and discomfort
- Bunions and hammertoes: relieve pressure on misaligned joints and alleviate pain
- Sports-related injuries: enhance performance, reduce injury risk, and provide support for recovery from foot and lower limb injuries (i.e. shin splints and stress fractures)
- Joint pain & aligntment issues: improve lower limb alignment, reduce pain in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and lower back, and prevent or manage conditions like patellofemoral pain syndrome and iliotibial band syndrome
- Achilles tendonitis: alleviate pain and provide support
- Gait abnormalities: correct and support various gait abnormalities (i.e. limping or uneven walking patterns)
- Osteoarthritis: reduce stress on affected joints and improve comfort for those with osteoarthritis in the feet, knees, or hips
- Neuropathy: can help distribute pressure more evenly and prevent ulcers and sores
- Heel spurs: reduce pain and pressure on the heel area

What should I be looking for/aware of as a consumer?

Today’s technologies allow producers to manufacture “pre-fabricated orthotics” and sell them as custom made. Patients who seek orthotic therapy should be wary of direct-selling programs or weight bearing computerized systems to order orthotics. Two-dimensional measurements do not equate to accurate three-dimensional devices. Be sure you are working with a foot specialist who has specific training in biomechanical assessment and custom orthotic design.

Why should I get custom orthotics rather than the orthotics I can buy in stores?

The marketplace is full of numerous shoe inserts claiming to alleviate a wide spectrum of musculoskeletal problems. Although the use of these products can be helpful in the short term, rarely will they provide the necessary support or durability long term. Store bought insoles typically need to be replaced several times a year whereas custom orthotics can last many years.

Are custom orthotics covered by OHIP or my insurance?

Custom orthotics are not covered under OHIP but may be covered by your extended healthcare plan. Please check with your benefits provider prior to your appointment.

Do Ineed a referral to be fit for custom orthotics at the Adelaide Health Clinic?

If an insurance claim is to be made, a medical referral will be required.

Is the Adelaide Health Clinic accepting new patients for orthotics?

Yes! Please call 416-367-5200 or click here today to book your appointment.