Certified Pedorthists
What is a Canadian Certified Pedorthist?
A Canadian Certified Pedorthist – C. Ped (C) – is one of very few healthcare professionals who are trained in the assessment of lower limb anatomy and biomechanics. They are also experts in manufacturing, designing and fitting custom made orthotics and orthopaedic footwear. As orthotic and footwear specialists, they will work with your physician to ensure the highest quality levels of patient care.
What services are provided by a Canadian Certified Pedorthist?
They provide a range of services to help treat pain and discomfort in the lower limbs and feet including:
- A hands-on examination of your feet and legs
- Assessing your foot and leg mechanics for the proper function while walking and possibly running (called a gait assessment)
- Creating custom-made orthotics to perfectly fit your feet and specific needs
- Providing footwear recommendations specific to your needs
- Modifying footwear to accommodate and personal problem areas
- Education about your condition and recommendation of a treatment plan
Foot orthotics are devices that are inserted into shoes to support and align the feet and help correct any foot abnormalities. Custom made for people of all ages with a referral from a physician, orthotics help to alleviate pain, provide comfort and improve the performance of the feet and lower limbs.
How can a Pedorthist help me?
With a referral from a physician, Canadian Certified Pedorthists help patients with a wide range of foot and lower limb problems including:
- Arthritis
- Diabetes
- Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
- Achillies pain
- Bunions and Bunionettes
- Shin splints
- Claw toes or hammer toes (toe deformities)
- Limb length discrepancies
- Sports injuries
- Metatarsalgia (pain in the ball of the foot)
- Arch pain
- Other foot injuries due to accident
Are pedorthic services covered by insurance benefits?
Many third party insurance plans have coverage for custom orthotics, orthopaedic footwear, modified footwear and custom footwear from Canadian Certified Pedorthists. All plans across Canada differ so it’s important to look into the specifics of your own plan to confirm your coverage. Specifically, you’ll want to review who can refer for orthotics and the price range covered. Individual provinces also have programs in place through WCB/Work safe and social assistance for patients that qualify. Check with your individual provincial regulations for more information.
