What is “Orthotic Therapy?”
Orthotic therapy is the use of an orthotic device to help change the function of the patient’s foot, ankle, knee, hip and/or lower back. At physio_logic physical therapy, this process usually begins with a detailed gait analysis, and a thorough physical therapy evaluation, including assessment of lower extremity function, joint and soft tissue mobility and function. From this analysis, we can determine the specific characteristics of the orthotic which will best improve the orientation, and/or function of the foot and ankle, which can also change the mechanics of the knee, hip, and possibly lower back.
Why We Are So Successful with Orthotic Therapy
One of the reasons we are very successful with the use of custom orthotics is because we will usually be quite sure that they will help you, before you invest in them. We do this by attempting to solve the injury problem by first ensuring that all other physical therapy “steps” have been undertaken first. These include: 1. Strengthening exercises for the foot, knee, hip and core. 2. Footwear evaluation and change (many lower extremity problems are solved simply by changing to more appropriate (for your particular physiology, injury, and activity) shoes). At physio_logic physical therapy, we work closely with numerous footwear professionals in well respected running and shoe stores such as Super Jock n Jill, Brooks Running, and Sole Perfection, to name a few. 3. Trials of increased support and stability including the use of over the counter (OTC) orthotics, and or taping techniques designed to support the foot structure in a focused way. Following the above protocols, we can be quite sure that your orthotic device will be helpful to you.
In addition, physio_logic physical therapy can adjust and modify your orthotics “on the spot” without sending them back to the factory for adjustment. These, fine tuning adjustments can usually be performed within the treatment session, and the results easily confirmed by trials in the clinic.
Time Frame
Once we have determined that custom orthotics are appropriate for your care/rehabilitation, you will be evaluated specifically for their design and function, and then casted in our clinic. Your casts will be shipped usually within 1-2 business days, and you should be able to have them fit in about 3 weeks. Custom manufacture and shipping times may vary slightly depending upon the laboratory’s demands. Rush orders are available at an additional cost (payable to the lab – physio_logic physical therapy does not profit from rush fees).
Fitting of the Orthotic
A fitting appointment allows you to try on your new orthotics, and be assessed as to their performance by your physical therapist using active trials (depending upon your sport or activity). This allows you to give the therapist feedback about comfort/fit, and the therapist a chance to observe your mechanics and symptoms during these trials. This also provides an opportunity to make any minor adjustments based on comfort and/or performance.
Break In
Generally, we ask that you wear your device an hour the first day, and add an hour of wear each day for a week. Wear time should (obviously) be in weight bearing and/or activity. You will be asked to schedule a follow-up appointment for 2-3 weeks following the fitting. If there are no issues with comfort or performance of your orthotics after two weeks (having completed the break in schedule for the first 7-10 days), you can cancel your follow up appointment (unless actively undergoing therapy at the same time).
How Often do the Orthotics Need to be Replaced?
Orthotic life times vary greatly. Depending on how hard you are on them they might last between 5 and 20 years. Obviously, heavier people and more aggressive activities wear them out more quickly. Many of the “wear” issues, such as wearing out of the topcover, can be easily repaired in house, often between appointments.
Cost
Orthotic devices (pair) – $500. This does not include the price of the physical therapy visit to evaluate, cast and prescribe the orthotic (standard office visit – $155), or tax, which is roughly $55. physio_logic physical therapy will provide you with the proper documentation to submit to your insurance company. We do not guarantee any reimbursement from your insurance company. It is up to you to inquire regarding coverage, and submit the documentation that we will send you (electronically).
The cost of major repairs or topcover replacements is $75. Most minor adjustments or repairs will be made free of charge. Please keep in mind that the standard charge for the appointment itself, still applies.