Hand-Crafted, Custom-Made Orthotics in Simcoe

A foot orthotic supports, aligns, prevents or corrects mal-alignments and improves functions of the foot. Generally, orthotics fall into three categories: those that primarily attempt to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in nature and those that combine functional control and protection.

Rigid Orthotics

A rigid orthotic is chiefly designed to control motion in major joint complexes of the foot and ankle. It is extremely useful in footwear that has poor support between the heel and ball of the foot. Rigid orthotics are –

 

  • Excellent for dress shoes when fabricated with low sides.
  • Helpful to alleviate sore heels and forefoot joints which are relieved when the arch is supported.
  • Useful in skates, ski boots and golf shoes.
  • Helpful in controlling foot placement within more loosely fitting footwear designs such as work / hiking boots, rubber boots, winter / snowmobile boots and golf shoes. For this purpose, the orthotics are fabricated with higher sides.

Semi-Rigid Orthotics

Also known as functional and corrective orthotics, semi-rigid orthotics are generally used to control excessive motion while providing cushioning. They are constructed from a variety of materials such as flexible plastics, high density rubber and other thermo formable materials. Cushioned materials with hollowing can accommodate pressure problems such as callouses on the sole of the foot. Semi rigid orthotics are most used where –

 

  • Biomechanical issues require correction such as weak ankles, flat feet, forefoot deformities, shin splints, knee, hip and back pain, sciatica and aching / tired muscles and joints.
  • Long hours are normal for people working on hard surfaces. In these cases, high density foams and friction resistant materials can minimize hot, burning and tired feet. Nurses, teachers and factory workers are just a few of the more common recipients of semi-rigid orthotics.

Soft Orthotics

Also known as accommodative orthotics, a soft orthotic device helps to absorb shock, increase balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. It is constructed of soft, compressible materials and may be moulded by the action of the foot during weight bearing or fashioned via a plaster impression of the foot. Worn against the sole of the foot, it usually extends from the heel past the ball of the foot to include the toes.

 

The advantage of any soft orthotic device is that it may be easily adjusted to changing weight-bearing forces. On the other hand, it must be replaced more frequently. It is particularly effective for arthritic and deformed feet where there is a loss of protective fatty tissue. It is also widely used in the care of the diabetic foot. Because it is compressible, the soft orthotic is usually bulkier and may require extra room in shoes. Soft orthotics are often used by –

 

  • Rehabilitation patients suffering from falls and accidents (trauma).
  • Arthritic (rheumatoid) patients with chronic sensitive joints.
  • Diabetic patients who require alleviation of pressure under diabetic blisters and ulcers.
  • Patients with deformed feet where there may be a loss of protective fatty tissue.

Best Fit Process

Providing you the very best care and comfort are our top priorities. We pledge that –

 

  1. You will receive a thorough assessment by a Canadian Certified Pedorthist, including history, biomechanical evaluation, gait analysis and education.
  2. You will be provided with a detailed explanation of your condition and treatment options.
  3. We will use only 3 dimensional casting techniques. You will be scheduled for a personal fitting appointment for any adjustments to your orthotics. All appointments within 24 months of receiving your orthotics are offered at no charge.
  4. We will refurbish your orthotics at no charge for up to two years from the date of your fitting.
  5. Following your adjustments, if you are still not comfortable with your orthotics, we will re-evaluate and re-fabricate new hand-crafted orthotics at no additional charge.

BioPed Sarnia

153 Christina Street South
Sarnia, Ontario N7T 2M9

t: 519-337-8887
f: 519-491-8889
e: sarnia@bioped.com