CUSTOM ORTHOTICS

A custom orthotic is a biomechanical medical appliance designed to properly align the foot and ankle in order to allow efficient movement and minimize pain and injury. At Propel Physiotherapy, we dispense devices, that look like shoe insoles, custom-made to correct your specific foot imbalance.

At Propel Physiotherapy, we are committed to a comprehensive approach to the treatment of our clients – this may involve the use of a custom orthotic. All of our registered physiotherapists have training and experience in assessing and identifying conditions requiring the use of a custom orthotic. We use cutting-edge technology – like 3D imaging – to customize an orthotic that meets each person’s needs.

The research surrounding custom orthotics is expansive. Many conditions have been studied, primarily looking at pain in the lower extremities. The evidence suggests that a custom orthotics can be very effective in reducing pain associated with common foot and ankle injuries.

Optimal alignment of the foot and ankle joint allows for smooth, pain-free movement of the whole body. When our foot alignment is not optimal, for example flat feet, supinated feet, shin splints or hallux valgus, it can lead to pain and dysfunction in a number of areas such as feet, knees, hips, and back.

Also, accidents like ankle fractures, surgery to stabilize fractures, peripheral nerve injuries can create a change in the structure or activity around the foot requiring the use of an orthotic. A custom orthotic can be designed to allow appropriate interaction with the ground and optimizing your ability to walk, run, skate or bike.

In the case where a custom orthotic isn’t enough to allow clients to achieve their treatment goals, our partners in the community –orthotists – can assess and create a custom device for the arm or leg that provides any type of support needed to return to function.  These are a number of devices for the foot, leg, body and arms. The type for the foot is commonly referred to as an AFO (ankle foot orthosis). Our partners in the community are skilled in the production of lightweight orthotics and orthoses for all types of client needs, whether they be work, sport, or rehabilitation.