Orthotics

Medical orthotic devices are either custom-made or scan be ordered online or specifically designed to benefit your lifestyle. An orthotic insole in classified as a "shoe insert” that aims to correct abnormal movement of the feet. However, not all orthotics are the same, which is why many people spend exorbitant amounts on the wrong device. It helps to understand the basics and the materials used when purchasing an orthotic device for the first time.

What tests are required to determine the orthotic best suited for me?

Pain in the arch of your foot is something to look out for and is often considered a sign to get an orthotic device. However, a bend test is the best way to assess whether a device of this kind can aid your mobility. A bend test works on the premise of the three-point pivot system to see how well your weight-bearing foot performs during a gait cycle. The Supra Navicular Angle (SNA) determines the relationship between the points and reveals the gravity of the foot's arch, whether low, medium or high. However, in most cases, we assess the first MTP joint, a joint that attaches the toe, a phalanx or phalangeal bone to the foot’s long bone (the metatarsal bone). The results taken from the functionality of the MTP joint reveal the power of your heel lift and foot propulsion. 

The orthotic stand and evaluation of the arch height depend on an assessment of the foot resting against the floor and the leg in a vertical position. In addition, a series of knee bending exercises while standing on one foot determines foot and knee instability due to poor mechanics. If so, physiotherapy may be needed in conjunction with an orthosis.

What are custom and prefabricated orthoses?

A custom-made orthotic device is created from the foot’s plaster cast or a 3D laser scan of your foot. In contrast, prefabricated orthoses are generic in design and are widely produced to fit the average foot size. Types of prefabricated orthotics include insoles, supports for your heel’s arch, plane wedges and shapely devices.

Currently, we are in the process of printing orthotic braces, specifically knee braces using the latest 3D imaging software. Custom orthotic insoles are designed to shape the feet, controlling movement and correcting gait. They are also worn to reduce foot pain and address foot and ankle alignment issues.

Please note: the orthotic products on our page are available by prescription only and suggested in the event of a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional. However, our prefabricated orthotic devices are open to the general public. We urge all our customers to undergo pre-evaluation tests to find a well-fitted, tested orthotic device that meets their needs.

Why buy when you can rent?

We allow all our clients to rent out our devices instead of buying something they will not need after they recover fully. As a go-green company, all our products are made from environmentally-safe products, from substances that would otherwise land in a dumpsite. Instead, we take these materials and design incredibly-effective mobility aids. Our circular economy program incorporates a buy-back initiative on all prosthetic and orthotic devices available, allowing our customers to buy our first and second-hand devices on the market.

FAQ