What Are Foot Orthotics?

Foot orthotics refer to personalized devices created to provide foot support, alignment, and relief from discomfort while addressing various foot-related issues.

These specialized inserts are positioned within shoes and are customized to cater to the specific requirements of each individual.

Custom foot orthotics are commonly prescribed to individuals that suffer from any type of foot pain that is not responding to conservative therapy.

How Do Orthopaedic Insoles Work?

Orthopedic insoles or custom foot orthotics are built to suit your individual need and to fill in any gaps that your body may be compensating for. Sometimes, patients suffer from recurrent or ongoing issues with their feet due to compensatory mechanisms, previous foot injuries or fractures or poor control in foot pronation or supination.

Others spend prolonged periods of the day standing on their feet that creates fatigue in the intrinsic foot muscles causing them to become hypertonic and painful.

shoe insoles are designed for each person based on their foot size and shape.

Custom foot orthotics are like shoe inserts or heel inserts. These custom insoles fit in the shoe of your choice to help with stabilizing of your joints, muscles and to correct gait when needed. They impact the biomechanics of walking by enhancing it to reduce the strain on tendons and ligaments.

Do I Need Custom Foot Orthotics?

To determine if custom foot orthotics are the right choice for you, it is highly recommended that you book an initial assessment with one of our chiropractors or physiotherapists for a full functional assessment of your posture, your foot mobility and observation of your gait.

Common Conditions Treated with Custom Made Orthotics

Custom orthotics help alleviate pain and improve foot function for various conditions, including:

  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Morton’s Neuroma
  • Arthritis & Osteoarthritis
  • Hammer Toes & Claw Toes
  • Bunions
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Shin Splints
  • Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee)
  • Heel Pain
  • Flat Feet

Custom foot orthotics are foot insoles custom built for filling a person's foot gap with floor.

Get Your Foot Assessed by Our Practitioners!

Types of Custom Orthotics

We offer three main types of custom orthotics, tailored to your condition and footwear needs:

  • Rigid Orthotics – Designed for foot and ankle instability, these firm orthotics provide functional control and support for joints, reducing pain in the feet, ankles, knees, and hips. They have the longest lifespan but may require an adjustment period.
    Best for: Joint instability, repetitive ankle strains, walking.

  • Semi-Rigid Orthotics – A balance between rigid and soft orthotics, these provide structured support with some flexibility. Ideal for athletes and children with flat feet, offering comfort and performance enhancement.
    Best for: Walking, sports, children with flat feet.

  • Soft Orthotics – Made from multiple layers of soft materials, these are best for shock absorption and pressure relief, providing comfort for sensitive or chronic foot pain conditions.
    Best for: Chronic foot pain, Morton’s neuroma, severe plantar fasciitis, sensitive feet.

Each orthotic is custom-made from a precise foot cast to ensure a perfect fit for your needs.

How Should I Get Custom Foot Orthotics in Coquitlam?

If after your treatment, it is indicated that foot orthotics are a good option for you, the clinicians will take a cast of your foot that will be sent to the lab for manufacturing. You will be asked to return when the orthotics arrive for a fitting appointment at no charge to you. This is to ensure correct use of the orthotics and to ensure they feel right for you.

Orthotics have three steps to be made for each person which are assessment, casting and manufacturing.

You can order your custom orthotics in three easy steps as follows:

Assessment

When you book your initial assessment for custom orthotics, our chiropractor will ask you a few questions to understand your need and issues that are causing you pain. An assessment of your posture, feet placement and foot arches is conducted to better understand your biomechanics.

A gait assessment will further reveal areas where your foot may be needing extra support. If our chiropractor finds that you are a suitable candidate for custom orthotics, she will recommend the type of orthotics that will benefit you the most.

Casting

Casting is done during the same visit. Our chiropractors will take a foam cast of both your feet and will ship the cast to our laboratory for the creation of the custom orthotics.

Fitting and Follow Up Sessions

The manufacturing process usually takes 2-4 weeks. When your orthotics arrive, our office will give you a call. You will be booked for a complimentary fitting session where our chiropractors will ensure the orthotics fit your shoes correctly and teach you the appropriate way of using your orthotics.

Order Your Custom Foot Orthotics Right Now!

Why Choose Fulcrum Therapy Foot Orthotics?

At Fulcrum Clinic located at 1112 Austin Ave #103, Coquitlam, BC, we stand behind our products and recommendations. A thorough and detailed assessment goes into the decision making process of ordering you the appropriate orthotics that will suit your need.
If the orthotics do not work for you, we have a fantastic relationship with the lab and can send them back for adjusting if need be.

Custom Orthotics FAQ

  1. How much do Custom Orthotic Inserts cost?

    Custom orthotics cost $440 for one pair. We offer two pairs for a discounted rate of $750.

  2. How long are orthotics good for? 

    The longevity of your custom orthotics depends on how much you use them. If you use them regularly, as recommended, they last for approximately 2- 5 years. 

  3. How do I care for my orthotics? 

    Here are the best practices for caring for your orthotics:
    – Wear them regularly.
    – Gently slide your orthotics into shoes, do not stuff or force them in.
    – Do not wash your orthotics as it may affect the glue used in the inserts, you may use a slightly damp cloth to wipe them down.
    – Do not get your orthotics wet. If they do get wet, then take out to air dry thoroughly – Ensure there are no cracks or defects.

  4. Can orthotics be transferred between different shoes?

    Yes, you may wear your orthotics in different shoes, as long as they are the same type of shoe. For example, you would not want to transfer them from a running shoe to a dress shoe. 

  5. Will my insurance cover custom orthotics? 

    Every insurance policy is different. Please reach out to your insurance provider to find out if they offer coverage for custom orthotics, or if they have any specific requirements in order to receive coverage for custom orthotics. We provide you with all of the paperwork required for billing to insurance, including a receipt, proof of manufacturing, and the method of acquiring your orthotics.

Custom Orthotics Do NOT Require A Doctor’s Referral.

Any concerns about insurance & billing? Find more details here!