FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What are custom orthoses?

Orthotics is the rehabilitative health science that deals with the application of external devices (orthoses) to the human body in order to align, protect and improve the function of any given body segment. This is accomplished by using pressure systems and controls for motion, such as assistance, resistance or limitation, which is built into and applied by the orthosis.

Custom orthotic design incorporates the selection of appropriate materials and components, and the technical process of fabrication. The design of the orthosis reflects the needs of the client based on a thorough physical and biomechanical assessment, including gait analysis, activity level and if appropriate radiographic evaluation.

When a Non-Custom Orthosis is indicated and where there is an option of available non-custom orthoses that are clinically appropriate, your Orthotist will custom fit and align the prescribed orthosis to provide the stability and comfort you require. Non-custom orthoses are usually required as a temporary measure after surgery or trauma, to allow healing to take place in a stabilized position, or to increase range of motion around a joint in a controlled manner while rehabilitation takes place, or to position joints to develop appropriately at a young age.

Do I need a prescription?

Yes. Every patient must have a prescription from a physician. Even returning patients require a prescription as their orthotic needs may have changed over time. Insurance companies and funding agencies require a prescription in order for you to receive funding.

How much do Orthoses cost?

Our Orthotic Services can range in price depending on the type of Orthosis, and the materials and componentry that are used, as well as the complexity of the Orthosis.

Health Care is a Provincial jurisdiction and as such, Orthotic renumeration is in line with comparable Orthotic Facilities across Canada and across provinces.

What kind of shoes should I wear with my orthoses?

Running shoes are recommended to be worn with your orthoses. Appropriate footwear is essential to encouraging a stable base of support, optimal foot alignment, and proper gait biomechanics. Shoes that are old and worn will have a negative impact on your gait biomechanics, as well as on the proper functioning of the orthotic device. In particular, we do not recommend any type of sheepskin boots (Uggs), canvas shoes (Converse style), ballet slippers, boots, low profile shoes, mary janes, or flip flops.  While we understand that many patients are fashion-conscious, consider that a beautiful walk and improved mobility are worth a thousand nice pair of shoes. Orthoses aim to improve your gait and body alignment in the long-run, and they only work as well as the shoes they are worn in. For more information on shoes to wear with your orthoses, please see our Shoewear page.

We recommend the following criteria for your shoes:

  • A size or half size larger than you would normally wear
  • Removable insole
  • Lace-up style (laces allow the shoe to be opened up for easy donning and they can be done up tightly to help control and align the foot, as well as keep the orthoses firmly in place)
  • Firm/deep heel counter (when you squeeze the heel of the shoe it is firm and doesn't fold or collapse. The heel of the shoe is deep enough to control the heel and doesn't allow the heel to 'pop out')
  • Stable sole (the sole of the shoe is stable and flat and doesn't 'rock' back and forth, it bends only at the toes and nowhere else along the length of the sole, and the sole offers resistance when twisted and cannot be 'rung out' like a dish cloth)

Please note that we are unable to fit the orthoses without shoes as we need to see you standing and/or walking. If you show up to your appointment without shoes we will have to rebook your appointment.

The orthoses are causing problems. What should I do?

Your orthoses should not be causing you pain. If you experience redness soreness or discomfort please call us immediately to book an appointment so we can adjust the device and make it comfortable for you.

Do my orthoses come with a warranty?

Yes, Ortho Dynamics warrants workmanship and/or part defects, under normal use, for three months (90 days) from the delivery date on all custom orthotic devices. During this period check-ups, adjustments, and repairs due to normal wear and tear are made at no extra cost to the client except for shipping cost to our facility.  Post warranty repairs will be charged for labor and materials. The warranty becomes void if the device has been altered, adjusted or repaired by anyone other than an Ortho Dynamics employee, or if the device or any of its parts have been subjected to misuse, neglect, or accident. All devices are provided to meet the specifications of the physician's prescription and therefore are Non-Returnable and Non-Refundable.
Although we make every effort to provide a positive outcome for all of our clients, Ortho Dynamics cannot guarantee a device will produce the results the patient or the prescribing physician expects.  Results depend greatly on the patient’s history, existing condition, and attitude.

What if I need to cancel or change my appointment?

We require 24 hours notice to cancel or change an appointment. If notice is not provided a cancellation fee of $50.00 will apply.

Any patient more then 20 minutes late for their appointment without informing us will be considered as a missed appointment. A cancellation fee will be charged and appointment will need to be rescheduled.

How will my child be able to get up off the floor and walk with a Rigid AFO that doesn't move at the ankle?

Your child will be able to figure out how to move around their environment even with Rigid AFOs. Rigid AFOs are prescribed to stabilize the ankle for children unable to do so themselves due to muscle imbalance or paralysis. The Rigid AFO prevents crouch gait and supports the ankle out of mediolateral collapse. Click here for a demonstration of movement with Rigid AFOs.