ORTHOTICS
Practitioner:  Amanda Bushby


 How is a Canadian Certified Pedorthist Different from other Foot Health Care Professionals?
 
Canadian Certified Pedorthists – C. Ped (C) – are foot orthotic and orthopaedic footwear experts. They are one of the few healthcare professionals trained in the assessment of the lower limb anatomy and biomechanics. With specialized education and training in foot orthotics and footwear, Canadian Certified Pedorthists help to alleviate pain, abnormalities, and debilitating conditions of the lower limbs and feet. They are experts in designing, fitting, and modifying custom made foot orthotics and orthopaedic footwear.
 
As proud members of patients' healthcare team, Canadian Certified Pedorthists work closely with physicians, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare providers. The goal of every Canadian Certified Pedorthist is to help patients achieve and maintain proper foot care and lower limb health so they can live healthy, active lives. 
 
What Services are Provided by Canadian Certified Pedorthists?

  • A hands-on examination of your feet and legs
  • Assessing your foot and leg mechanics for the proper function while walking and possibly running (called a gait assessment)
  • Creating custom-made orthotics to perfectly fit your feet and specific needs
  • Providing footwear recommendations specific to your needs
  • Education about your condition and recommendation of a treatment plan 
  • Modifying footwear to accommodate any personal problem areas
 
Foot orthotics are devices that are inserted into shoes to support and align the feet and help correct any foot abnormalities and improve how the foot functions. Used in conjunction with appropriate footwear, foot orthotics can be effective in helping to treat a number of foot and lower limb problems.
 
Canadian Certified Pedorthists help patients with a wide range of foot and lower limb problems including:

  • Plantar fasciitis 
  • Diabetes
  • Arthritis
  • Achilles Tendonitis
  • Bunions and bunionettes
  • Shin Splints
  • Claw toes or hammer toes
  • Metatarsalgia
  • Sports Injuries
 
What Type of Training do Canadian Certified Pedorthists Undergo?
 
Canadian Certified Pedorthists undergo a rigorous training process in order to be certified by The College of Pedorthics of Canada. To become a Canadian Certified Pedorthist a candidate must first complete an university degree that includes courses in the area of anatomy, biomechanics/gait analysis, medical conditions/diseases, physical assessment, and ethics. In addition, candidates must complete a minimum of 3,500 hours, or approximately two to three years of training in the areas of clinical practice, footwear (fit and modification) and fabrication of custom made foot orthotics. 
 
Is There a Difference Between a “Pedorthist” and a “Canadian Certified Pedorthist”?
 
The College of Pedorthics of Canada regulates and certified Canadian Certified Pedorthist to protect the public by ensuring strict standards of practice. In Canada, Canadian Certified Pedorthists must follow a strict Code of Ethics that is upheld by the College and they must continually upgrade their education to maintain their certification. Canadian Certified Pedorthists must also belong to the Pedorthic Association of Canada, a professional association whose purpose is to develop and promote the study, practice, and knowledge of pedorthics. Uncertified Pedorthists are not governed by the College and they are not members of the Pedorthic Association of Canada.
 
Are Pedorthic Services or Custom Made Foot Orthotics Covered by Insurance Benefits?
 
Most extended health care insurance benefit plans have coverage for custom made foot orthotics, orthopaedic footwear, modified footwear, and custom footwear from Canadian Certified Pedorthists. All plans across Canada differ so it’s important to look into the specifics in your own plan to confirm your specific coverage. If your insurance plan covers pedorthic services and custom made foot orthotics, you will need to visit your healthcare provider and ask for a prescription.
 
What to Expect on Your First Visit?

  • Your appointment will last approximately 45 minutes
  • Bring your referral prescription, as well as a few pairs of shoes that you usually wear
  • OHIP does not cover the cost of custom made foot orthotics. It's your responsibility to check with your insurance company regarding your requirements and eligibility you might have for custom made foot orthotics. I will provide you with the necessary documentation for your extended health care claims.
  • If we proceed with custom made foot orthotics, a half deposit if required on the time of the appointment. Should you decide not to proceed with custom made foot orthotics or your assessment determines that it is not warranted, an assessment fee will be charged at the end of the appointment
  • Unfortunately, I do not direct bill at this time. I accept debit, VISA, MasterCard, American Express and cash. 
  • You will need to book a dispensing appointment with your Pedorthist to check the fit of your custom made foot orthotics and fit them into your footwear. The dispensing appointment is within two weeks of your assessment. Rush delivery is available for an extra cost.  
 
Fees for This Service

Custom Made Foot Orthotics     $460 per pair
Pedorthic Assessment                $70 (30-45 minute appointment)


Insurance Requirements:
 
  • All patients will receive a comprehensive analysis including a history, biomechanical gait analysis, patient education on footwear selection and the manufacturing of the orthotic devices prescribed.
  • I utilize a web-based data program that allows me to email the detailed assessment, treatment pain report documents, and any exercise or educational documents directly to our patients
  • As a Canadian Certified Pedorthist, I am bound by the Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice of The College of Pedorthics in Canada to obtain and maintain complete records on our patients. We are also used to providing the appropriate paperwork to ensure that our patients will be reimbursed for our services, based on the level of coverage they have. We will provide you with the following documents by email or at your dispensing appointment.