Orthotics

The right orthotics can help ease or eliminate foot, ankle, leg and back pain.

Basically, they are a custom insert to place in your shoes that correct biomechanical foot issues in how you walk, stand or run.

To learn more about how orthotics could potentially change your life for the better, book a consultation with one of our professionals.

**Most healthcare funds cover orthotics annually, depending on your cover. So you could be able to get the right pair with little to no out-of-pocket expense.**

We provide orthotic solutions for people of all ages and sizes all around the Southwest WA region including Australind, Bunbury, Bridgetown, Dunsborough, Harvey, Margaret River and Augusta.

Some more information about Orthotics…

• Foot orthoses (or orthotic devices) are customised shoe inserts designed to help treat lower limb injury and pain. Injury presents as an area of stressed tissue that can come from a number of causes (training error, gender, weight, shoes, terrain, illness, etc). All of which take the tissue out of its optimal zone. Orthoses change tissue loading and can be used as part of a multifaceted treatment plan.
• Your podiatrist at Southwest Foot and Ankle Centre specialises in the analysis of the biomechanical function of lower limbs.
• Although orthotic insoles may look similar, they have very different functions depending on the prescription required.
• We also can provide a Richie brace or ankle-foot orthotic ( AFO ) for people requiring this specialised service.

• You will be biomechanically assessed (Muscle, Range of Motion, & Gait Analysis) to diagnose the problem. Your podiatrist might then try shoe padding or strapping and when this demonstrates clinical improvement, 3D Scans will be taken of your feet to make your orthoses.
• Orthotics usually take 2 weeks to be made. A fitting appointment will be made for you at the end of these 2 weeks so the podiatrist can fit the orthotic to your shoes and assess you walking in them.
• The podiatrist will review you after 2-3 weeks to make sure they work well.

• Orthotic fees vary depending on the material and prescription. The fee includes fitting, review, alterations, and adjustments for the first 3 months.
• Private health insurance rebates depend upon your cover. Health funds allow claiming for orthoses once every calendar year. Please check with your specified health fund for your entitlements as these vary.

• Orthotics generally last 3-5 years depending on the material used, but the amount of heat or force determines how soon you will need to refurbish them.
• We recommended a yearly review to make sure you are getting the maximum benefit from your devices.

• Your orthotics may not fit in all of your shoes but can be modified to fit into some casual shoes.
• Slim orthotics may be made specifically for dress shoes, but provide less support.
• It takes time for your body to adjust to orthotics and for the skin on your feet to get used to the contact from the orthotic. It can take a few weeks to get used to wearing orthotics
• Wear the orthotics only while they are comfortable while you are breaking them in. This time may vary from 15 minutes to several hours.
• If the orthotics start to feel uncomfortable, remove them from your shoes and let your feet rest for a couple of hours.
• Check your skin for pressure areas. They should not cause pain, bruises, or blisters. Please call our rooms if this is the case to have your orthotics adjusted.
• You should be able to wear them comfortably all day within 1-6 weeks.
• It is not recommended to run or exercise in orthotics immediately. It is best to let your feet and body adjust before subjecting them to the added impacts and forces associated with exercise.

• Remove your orthotics from your shoes to allow perspiration or wetness to evaporate.
• Orthotics should be cleaned periodically by wiping them down with a damp cloth and detergent.
• If you have a soft top cover on your orthotics, sprinkle them with baking soda or talcum powder to help absorb odour.
• DO NOT immerse in water (sink, washing machine) or subject them to heat (heater, fireplace, dryer)
• How do I stop them from squeaking?
  • Use sandpaper to rough up the bottom of the orthotic
  • Shake talcum powder inside the shoe and on the bottom of the orthotic
  • Rub a bar of soap on the bottom & around the sides of orthotic
• We keep the 3D scans of your feet so if you require another pair of orthoses in the future it is more cost-effective and efficient.

To chat with our experienced team about how Orthotics can help you, book today.