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Frequently Asked Questions about Custom Orthotics
How much do custom orthotics cost?
All Custom orthotics are $495. No tax and no surprise charges. A $200 down payment is due at the first appointment in order to start the fabrication process. The balance of $295 is due when the custom orthotics are dispensed to you.
Does my insurance cover the custom orthotics?
We don’t have a relationship with any of the insurance companies because the vast majority of plans don’t touch custom orthotics. Most insurance plans only cover orthotics for extreme diabetic cases where there are open sores on the feet. Insurance usually starts covering the devices when they come up above the ankle such as AFO’s, Arizona Braces, etc. We DO accept HSA and FSA cards. We can also prepare the documents necessary for them to submit to their insurance company. I always like to under promise with that because again, insurance coverage is unlikely.
How long does the appointment take?
The initial appointment will take about 20-30 minutes. We will start a patient file, evaluate your feet, ankles, and knees, put together an orthotic strategy, and take the casts of your feet. A down payment of $200 is due at the end of the appointment.
How long does it take to get the custom orthotics?
It takes roughly 2-3 weeks for the custom orthotics to be fabricated. When the custom orthotics are ready, Chad will text you or call you directly to confirm that we are ready to get back together. You get to select your preferred method of notification (Text or Call). Most patients prefer to be texted.
Can I Just Come In to Pick Up the Orthotics When They're Ready?
No, we require that you please schedule an appointment with Chad. The custom orthotics are always a bit larger and longer than they need to be. Chad will need to trim them, shape them, and put the finishing touches on them in order to fit them in your current shoes. We want to make sure that we’ve got you positioned to succeed. There’s usually a balance due that needs to be paid too.
What are custom orthotics for?
Custom Orthotics are most important when people are experiencing pain or discomfort. Doctors prescribe custom orthotics for any combination of the following reasons (both post-op or for a conservative intervention before exploring surgical options):
- To evenly distribute the bodies pressures onto the bottoms of the feet. This reduces pressure on the overused, injured or inflamed areas. High pressure areas on the plantar surface of the foot need to be off loaded and cushioned.
- To provide better ankle and knee control. Severe Pronation and Severe Supination can cause a number of different ailments with the feet, ankles, and knees. These conditions get worse over time. Our goal is to get the ankles and knees more neutrally aligned. We want to get things feeling better and we want to prevent reoccurances of the injuries.
- To enhance and improve the patient’s balance and stability. Whether the patient’s feet and ankles are hypermobile or if the patient has balance concerns due to neuropathy or other contributing factors, we want to stabilize the foot and ankle to give the patient a sturdier and more balanced foundation.
- To address a Leg Length Discrepancy. When one leg is longer than the other, it throws the hips and lower back out of alignment. We incorporate a Heel Lift in the orthotic for the shorter leg to take the strain off of everything and to even out the gait.
- To properly address the patient’s needs when one foot is shaped differently than the other. Most people have one foot that is a little different the other. For some, the differences can be more extreme. With custom foot orthotics, the patient with get exactly what they need on both sides.
Do I Need a Prescription for the Custom Orthotics?
Yes, custom orthotics must be prescribed by a doctor. We can’t make custom orthotics for anyone without a prescription. The prescription can come from ANY doctor. Primary Care Physician, Orthopedic Surgeon, Podiatrist, Chiropractor, etc.
How long will my custom orthotics last?
Just like all durable medical equipment, custom orthotics break down over time and need to be replaced. As a generalization, we recommend replacing your custom orthotics every two years. Our goal is to replace your orthotics before things start hurting again. Your old pair of custom orthotics can be worn in your yard work shoes or a slip-on shoe for around the house. They are still useful. We just want to make sure your newest orthotics are always being worn in your primary purpose shoes; the shoes you are in most of the time.