Q What kind of shoes can I get from you?

A We use a wide variety of footwear suppliers and can advise you whether you need something a little more wide than is available on the high street or you require something completely custom made. We often give our patients brochures so that you can browse and order foot wear at your leisure. We will always discuss with you the best options in terms of suitability to your needs and value for money. Specialist footwear.

Q Can I wear orthotic insoles in my existing shoes?

A For fitting of orthotic insoles, we usually recommend shoes which are a little wider and deeper than normal shoes. We also recommend that the shoe has some type of adjustable fastening over the top of the foot to allow changes in volume due to the addition of the insole. A removeable inlay can also be very handy if space is at a premium inside the shoe.

However, many people manage to fit their orthotic insoles inside their existing footwear. Gents footwear is usually much better at accommodating insoles than ladies. When you come for your assessment, bring some of your typical shoes with you and we will be able to advise on what best to do regarding shoe choice. It is very difficult to fit most orthotic insoles inside moderate to high heeled court shoes but we will be able to advise you at your assessment.

Q Can I do any exercises to help my problem?

A There are often exercises that you can do to help your problem but the type of exercise depends on what your problem is. Your orthotist will give you an exercise programme if it is suitable for you or he might refer you to another health professional such as a physiotherapist.

Q Can I wear orthotic devices for sport?

A After a period of breaking in most foot orthotics are beneficial when participating in sport and should alleviate pain that you were previously experiencing. Similarly, knee bracing can give you the support you require in order to play sport safely. Other types of orthotics such as spinal braces and trusses are often too restrictive to wear whilst participating in sport. It is important that you inform your orthotist of all activities that you like to participate in during your initial consultation so that the best possible devices can be ordered for you.

Q What do I do if my orthotic does not work?

A Come back and see us free of charge.

We offer all of our patient’s one free ‘emergency’ consultation. This means that if you are not satisfied with your device for any reason, e.g. you are still experiencing the same pain, you will see your orthotist again who will carry out another thorough assessment. This assessment might lead to small alterations to your existing device, or referral to another health professional e.g. Orthopaedic Consultant.

Q When do my devices need to be replaced?

A We recommend a review appointment six months after your fitting appointment. Not all devices need to be replaced at this time; this is dependant on what the device is made of and how much wear the device has had. Another reason to attend a six month review is to check that your anatomy has stayed the same and that the device you are using is still suitable for your condition. If no changes have occurred to either device or anatomy, an appointment is made for six months time.

Q Do I need to be referred by a GP or consultant to see you?

A No. This is only the case for seeing health practitioners in the NHS. Anyone can come and see us although some health insurers do require orthotic claims to be linked to an ongoing case and therefore require referral letters.

Q Is private orthotic treatment covered by my health insurer?

A All private health insurers policies differ and we advise that you check with your insurer before your appointment. However, most of our patients do receive remuneration for their consultation fees, not the cost of their devices.

Q How long does each appointment take?

A Initial consultations take between 45 minutes and 1 hour. Fitting appointments take approximately 30 minutes. Review appointments take approximately 45 minutes.

Q Can you recommend other health professionals?

A Yes. We do recommend other health professionals. There are links to these individuals throughout our website but if you can’t find the person that you are looking for or require further advice, please give us a call.

If you have any further questions please Contact Us.