Custom Foot Orthotics by Okaped

OKAPED’s Custom Foot Orthotics are manufactured in Kelowna at the Okanagan’s 1st Pedorthic lab which was established in 1997. We offer Pedorthic Services including Biomechanical Assessments, Gait Analysis, Foot Orthotics, Orthopaedic Footwear Modification as well as Repairs.

At OKAPED our clinicians are Canadian Certified Pedorthists. Healthcare professionals trained in the assessment of lower limb anatomy, biomechanics and the fabrication, fit and function of orthotics.

Foot orthotics are not simply something we “also” do. It’s our professions specialty.

Insurance Coverage

When checking your Insurance ensure you ask specifically about the eligible Provider. As Canadian Certified Pedorthists and are recognized as Providers of custom foot orthotics in Canada.

We bill to ICBC, WorSafe BC and out of province, RCMP, FNFA Min of Social Development and Veterans Affairs Canada. We will require a Pre-authorization.

Unfortunately no Private Insurance companies currently allow for direct billing for Custom Foot Orthotics. This has nothing to do with OKAPED it is the policy writers.

Custom Foot Orthotics

Our clinicians choose from a variety of materials for fabrication of custom orthotics. These include. The client’s biomechanical exam, gait analysis, pathology, foot structure, age, condition and activity level all contribute. The decision on the amount of support, control, possible offloading and provided footwear also contribute to design decisions. We use soft accomodative foams as well as firmer plastics. Each material has its benefits; one material type for all conditions, alignment correction and sensitivity is simply not an ideal. Orthotic designs can also include metatarsal support, cushioning, sweet spots, lifts, wedging and wound care offloading to name a few. Okaped’s clinical staff can all fabricate orthotics and have extensive experience in fabrication as well as modifications to orthotics.

Foot Casting Process

In order to make truly custom orthotics a three dimensional image must be made of the foot. Our Pedorthists have been certified by our College on methods that are accurate and appropriate to make custom made orthotics. We do direct molding to the feet, Biofoam unweighted seated casting, and plaster of paris slipper casting. Each practitioner selects the best method based upon the individual needs of the patient.

We manufacture your custom orthotics in our onsite lab and do not ship them out to be mass produced. This allows for our Pedorthists and Pedorthic technicians to work side by side ensuring a high quality, accurately fabricated device. We continue to investigate digital scanners and 3-D printers looking for technology advantages and found most have advantages and disadvantages. If we change our methodology and fabrication techniques it will be noted here.

How Long do Orthotics Last?

The functional lifespan of a foot orthotic varies from patient to patient. The materials, patient’s foot structure, current levels of activity, age and usage all have an impact on its lifespan. The shell of the orthotic generally lasts longer than the top cover (the material between the shell and the foot). Top covers will compress over time but can easily be replaced. The lifespan of an orthotic should be measured by how long it meets the foot’s changing needs for support, correction. If your symptoms return, have your orthotic reviewed to determine if modifications or a new device are necessary. We recommend changing soft shell orthotics every 2-3 years and semi-rigid orthotics every 3-5 years.

Adjustments do occur.

From time to time and for various reasons custom orthotics do require adjustments. Two common reasons would be increased comfort or increased correction. In either case we offer 1 Full Year of complimentary adjustments and appointments to ensure your satisfaction. We also pride ourselves in being able to do the work on site at every OKAPED clinic. Shipping them away for 2-3 weeks to have someone “tweak” your orthotics, never made foot-care sense to us. In almost all cases we can do it while you wait at your appointment and test out the modifications right away.

Products

Custom Foot Orthotics by Okaped

Insurance Coverage

Custom Foot Orthotics

Foot Casting Process

How Long do Orthotics Last?

Adjustments do occur.

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