Step into Comfort with Custom Orthotics in Ottawa

Are you experiencing foot pain, discomfort, or mobility issues? Do conditions like flat feet, high arches, metatarsalgia, or plantar fasciitis limit your daily activities? Perhaps you’re an athlete seeking to enhance your performance. If you’re looking for relief, Custom Orthotics services offered by KineMedics in Ottawa might be the solution you need.

Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts. They’re crafted to provide support, improve foot function, and alleviate pain caused by biomechanical imbalances. Essentially, they help correct your foot alignment and enhance your overall mobility. But who exactly needs them, and why are they so important?

Who Benefits from Custom Orthotics?

You might be wondering if custom orthotics are right for you. The truth is, a wide range of individuals can benefit. Here are some common scenarios:

• Those with Foot Pain: If you’re dealing with persistent foot pain, whether it’s in your heel, arch, or ball of your foot, custom orthotics can provide targeted support and cushioning.
• Individuals with Specific Foot Conditions: Conditions like flat feet, high arches, plantar fasciitis, bunions, and heel spurs can all cause significant discomfort. Custom orthotics are designed to address these specific issues.
• People with Lower Limb Conditions: Custom orthotics aren’t just for foot problems. They can also help alleviate pain and discomfort in your ankles, knees, and even your back.
• Athletes and Active Individuals: Proper foot support is crucial for athletic performance. Custom orthotics can improve your biomechanics, reduce your risk of injury, and enhance your efficiency during activities like running, jumping, and walking. Moreover, they can help with recovery.
• Those with Diabetes: Diabetes can affect the feet, leading to nerve damage and poor circulation. Custom orthotics can provide support and cushioning, reducing the risk of developing foot ulcers.
• Individuals with Arthritis: Arthritis in the feet and ankles can cause pain and stiffness. Custom orthotics can help to support the joints and reduce stress, making walking and other activities more comfortable.

With our in-house orthotics lab, we maintain full control over production—ensuring top-quality orthotics delivered on time.

Why Are Custom Orthotics Needed?

Your feet are the foundation of your body. Proper foot alignment is absolutely critical for your overall mobility and joint health. When your feet are misaligned, it can lead to a chain reaction of problems throughout your lower body. Here’s why custom orthotics are so important:

• Pain Relief: Custom orthotics can significantly reduce pain in your feet, ankles, knees, and back. They provide targeted support to the areas that need it most.
• Improved Foot Function: They help to correct biomechanical imbalances, allowing your feet to function more efficiently. This can improve your gait (the way you walk) and reduce strain on your joints.
• Injury Prevention: By supporting your feet and improving your alignment, custom orthotics can help prevent injuries such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and stress fractures.
• Enhanced Mobility: When your feet are properly supported, you’ll find it easier to walk, stand, and participate in your favourite activities.
• Long-Term Health: Addressing foot problems early can prevent them from worsening and leading to more serious issues down the road. Custom orthotics can play a key role in maintaining your long-term foot health.
• Support and Stability: They provide the necessary support and stability to your feet, reducing the risk of falls and improving your balance.

How KineMedics Helps with Custom Orthotics in Ottawa

KineMedics, located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, offers comprehensive Custom Orthotics services. Our team of Canadian Certified Pedorthists (C. Ped. (C)) is highly trained and experienced in assessing, designing, and fitting custom orthotics. Here’s how we can help you:

• Detailed Assessments: KineMedics’ Pedorthists conduct thorough assessments to understand your specific needs. This includes:
  • Biomechanical and gait analysis: We’ll evaluate how your feet and legs move when you walk, run, and stand.
  • Strength and flexibility testing: We’ll assess the strength and flexibility of your feet and lower legs to identify any limitations.
• Custom Casting: To ensure a precise fit, we use custom casting techniques. This involves taking a three-dimensional impression of your feet. We use non- or partial-weight-bearing casting methods, such as Plaster of Paris or foam box impression, in the sub-talar neutral position.
• Expertise: KineMedics’ Pedorthists are specially trained in the design, manufacture, fitting, and modification of foot orthotics and footwear. We are experts in helping people alleviate pain, correct abnormalities, and address debilitating conditions of the lower limbs and feet.
• In-House Orthotics Lab: Produced in KineMedics’ in-house orthotics lab, our orthotics correct imbalances, alleviate pain, and improve foot function.
• Comprehensive Services: KineMedics provides a wide range of services and treatment options to address your foot and lower limb needs. 

What to Expect During Your Custom Orthotics Consultation

When you visit KineMedics for your Custom Orthotics services, you can expect a thorough and personalized experience. Here’s a general overview of what typically happens:

1. Initial Assessment: The Certified Pedorthist will begin by discussing your medical history, symptoms, and activity level. They’ll want to know about the specific issues you’re experiencing and what your goals are for treatment.
2. Biomechanical Examination: The Pedorthist will then physically examine your feet and lower limbs. This may involve observing your posture, evaluating your foot structure, and assessing your range of motion.
3. Gait Analysis: You’ll likely be asked to walk or run so the Pedorthist can analyze your gait. This helps them identify any abnormalities or inefficiencies in your walking pattern.
4. Casting: To create your custom orthotics, the Pedorthist will take a precise impression of your feet. As mentioned earlier, this is typically done using Plaster of Paris or a foam box.
5. Orthotic Fabrication: The impressions of your feet are used to create a custom mould. Your orthotics will then be fabricated based on this mould, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal support.

Fitting and Follow-up: Once your orthotics are ready, you’ll return for a fitting appointment. The Pedorthist will ensure the orthotics fit comfortably in your shoes and provide the necessary support. They’ll also provide instructions on how to break in your orthotics and care for them. Follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor your progress and make any adjustments to your orthotics.

Q&A About Custom Orthotics

Here are some frequently asked questions about custom orthotics:

Q: How long do custom orthotics last?

A: The lifespan of custom orthotics varies depending on factors such as your activity level, weight, and the materials used. Generally, they can last anywhere from one to several years. Our Pedorthists can provide a more accurate estimate based on your individual needs.

Q: Do I need a prescription for custom orthotics?

A: While a prescription isn’t always required, it’s often helpful. A prescription from your doctor can provide the Pedorthist with valuable information about your condition and may also be necessary for insurance coverage.

Q: How long does it take to get accustomed to custom orthotics?

A: It usually takes a few weeks to fully adjust to wearing custom orthotics. Our Pedorthists will provide you with a break-in schedule to help you gradually get used to them.

Q: Does KineMedics produce the orthotics in its own lab?

A: Yes, KineMedics has an in-house orthotics lab. This allows us greater control over the production process, ensuring the quality and timely delivery of your orthotics.

Q: Are custom orthotics covered by insurance?

A: Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. Some plans cover all or part of the cost of custom orthotics, while others may not cover them at all. It’s best to check with your insurance provider to determine your coverage.

Walk Pain-Free with Custom Support

Don’t let foot pain or discomfort hold you back. Custom orthotics can provide the support and relief you need to live an active, pain-free life. If you’re in the Ottawa region and are looking for Custom Orthotics services, KineMedics is here to help. Our experienced team of Certified Pedorthists is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective solutions for your foot and lower limb needs.

Step into comfort – customized support for every stride.

Schedule your foot assessment today and take the first step towards a healthier, more comfortable you.