Canadian Certified Pedorthists are healthcare professionals trained in the assessment of lower limb anatomy and biomechanics. A Biomechanical Assessment and Gait Analysis will be provided to all clients. They specialize in the design, manufacture and fit of orthotics as well as custom footwear modifications. Also providing braces for the knee, lower leg, ankle and foot. Their goals are to help you recover from injuries, gain full mobility and live a healthy lifestyle.
Your first visit to any OKAPED office when you are booked in for a Pedorthic assessment begins with a 1 hr initial assessment. It is comprised to two major components. The biomechanical assessment and the gait analysis. During this initial appointment we will also be reviewing your footwear so please bring in your most commonly used pairs for work, leisure and sports.
This first detailed portion of the appointment helps us to make the appropriate treatment or referral recommendations for you. During this portion of the exam the following will be reviewed:
Upon completion of your assessment your Pedorthist knows how your body is aligned, what limitations in joint motion exist or if weaknesses are evident. Your Pedorthist can then help direct you to the proper care or advise you on any in-house treatments that are an option.
OKAPED’s Pedorthists have specialized training in observing client’s walking and running patterns (Gait). It is crucial that a gait analysis is performed on each client to help determine what types of treatments should be considered. Foot and leg alignment may appear one way when a client sits, stands or is laying prone or supine on an exam table. True understanding of what type of gait pattern they have only occurs when the client is actually walking or running.
OKAPED clinicians use HD Slow Motion Video analysis to aid in analyzing your gait. Many motions are imperceptible to the naked eye and OKAPED has used the advantages of video from its first day in operation.
Runners will be asked to run as well so please bring your current and old runners. We need to analyze a slow motion video of runners, a standing analysis or simply watching a person walk can not be extrapolated into how someone will run.
Once your Pedorthist has examined your alignment, range of motion, and gait patterns they will begin the process of building a solution for you. Based upon the findings during the exam your Pedorthist will often try to alter pressures and motions that can be contributing to, or causing your pain or joint irritations. In some cases treatments such as footwear modifications, foot orthotics or bracing may be used. When weakness patterns are discovered or motion limitations noted we will work with your physical therapist or kinesiologist to help you make changes to help your body help itself.
Biomechanical Exam
Diabetes Foot Care
Knee Assessment
Footwear
Custom Orthotics
Bike & Ski Fitting