Graham Archer of Kintec Footlabs in Vancouver, British Columbia, answers "How do I know if I need orthotics?"

How do I know if I need orthotics?

Orthotics help people in different ways, but it really comes down to your foot mechanics, running or walking style, body type, and injury history.

When you are starting a new exercise program or increasing your distance, speed, or intensity in your current program, then it is beneficial to get a professional gait assessment to help minimize the risk of injury due to poor foot mechanics.

Who should I trust to assess my mechanics and provide me with custom orthotics?

This is a very common question because of the many different custom foot orthotic providers out there.

As a Canadian Certified Pedorthist, I specialize in foot mechanics and the design and manufacture of custom-made foot orthotics. An orthotist is another professional that is well trained in foot function and custom orthotic manufacturing. I would encourage you to look at the Pedorthic Association of Canada Web site for more information on training and qualifications (www.pedorthic.ca).

Besides finding out the credentials of the person you are seeing, it is also important to know the process of assessment, casting, and manufacturing.

A biomechanical assessment should include a detailed history of you, your condition, various functional tests, a gait assessment, and some level of patient education. This process can take anywhere from a minimum of forty minutes to over an hour.

A cast must be a three-dimensional capture of your foot. This can be done using plaster of Paris, a foam impression (from a seated position), or a non-weight-bearing three-dimensional digital image. Weight-bearing impressions (even the ones using fancy computers) are not appropriate methods to manufacture a custom orthotic.

It is always best to work with someone that has their own in-house manufacturing or at the very least the ability to do in-house modifications. Ask your orthotic provider if they can rebuild your orthotic without sending it away.

About the Author

Graham Archer is a Canadian Board Certified Pedorthist and the vice president of Pedorthics at Kintec Footlabs. He is also an avid mountain biker, who is often found on the biking trails on the North Shore.