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What are Orthoses?

Orthoses, or orthotic devices, are customised shoe inserts that are intended to adjust an abnormal, or irregular walking pattern. They perform functions that make standing, walking, and running more comfortable and efficient, by altering the angles at which the foot strikes a walking or running surface.

Orthoses take various forms and are constructed from a variety of materials. All are concerned with improving foot function and minimizing stress forces that could ultimately cause foot deformity and pain.

There are three main categories of foot orthoses – Rigid, Soft and Semi-Rigid

• Rigid orthoses are chiefly designed to control motion in two major joint complexes of the foot, which lie directly below the ankle joint. These devices are long lasting, do not change shape, are usually unbreakable. Strains, aches, and pains in the legs, thighs, and lower back may be due to abnormal function of the foot, or a slight difference in the length of the legs. In such cases, orthoses may improve or eliminate these symptoms, which may seem only remotely connected to foot function.
  
  
• Soft, orthotic devices help to absorb shock, increase, balance, and take pressure off uncomfortable or sore spots. They are effective for arthritic and grossly deformed feet where there is a loss of protective fatty tissue on the side of the foot. It is also widely used in the care of the diabetic foot.
  
  
• Semi-rigid orthoses provide for dynamic balance of the foot while walking or participating in sports. This orthosis is not a crutch, but an aid to the athlete. Each sport has its own demand and each sport orthosis needs to be constructed appropriately with the sport and the athlete taken into consideration. This functional dynamic orthosis helps guide the foot through proper functions, allowing the muscles and tendons to perform more efficiently.

analysis of a negative foot cast

How much will my Orthoses cost?

1. The prescription of customised orthotic devices is a process that includes a biomechanical examination, casting, prescription and the cost of your Orthoses. The total for this process is $480 – $570 dollars. The level of rebate depends on your private health fund. For HBF the item numbers are F111 (Muscle testing), F114 ROM study, F117 (Gait analysis) and F350 Foot orthoses. For all other health funds the item number F224
   
   
2. Your second appointment includes the dispensal of your Orthotics. (Be sure to bring the shoes you plan to wear with your Orthotics so we can receive a proper fit.) This is a no charge visit.
   
   
3. Your third appointment is your follow-up to re-evaluate your original foot problem and make appropriate adjustments, if necessary. This is also a no charge visit.