Plantar orthotics: types, benefits, and adaptation tips

What are the different types of plantar orthotics?

There are 2 main types of plantar orthotics, and it is important not to confuse them:

• Custom plantar orthotics: this option is available to you when you consult with a podiatrist, who will conduct a personalized evaluation and prescribe plantar orthotics that are customized to suit your feet.
• Over-the-counter plantar orthotics: you can find orthotics in a pharmacy; however, this is not always the best solution for your specific condition. In reality, each person’s foot is different, and the quality and effectiveness of these orthotics are not always optimal, because they are not adapted to your specific condition.  

Additionally, there are several types of custom-made foot orthotics, depending on your needs. They can be flexible, semi-flexible or rigid, depending on your health requirements. Here are some examples:

• Plantar orthotics for children: plantar orthotics can be worn by children aged 3 and older. It is possible to prevent or correct certain biomechanical deficiencies at a very early age. Children’s orthotics are specifically designed to adapt to children’s feet that are growing.
• Plantar orthotics for diabetics: diabetes often weakens the foot, because it affects the nerves and arteries. Orthotics for diabetics prevent the formation of wounds or lesions that may result from diabetes. This type of orthosis is semi-flexible in order to relieve pressure points, while promoting optimal foot function.
• Plantar orthotics for athletes: this type of orthosis is designed to support running and sports activities. It is manufactured with materials that assist with foot propulsion and absorb impact shock. It is also designed to absorb foot moisture during physical activity.
• Accommodative plantar orthotics: particularly suited for seniors or those dealing with arthritis, accommodative orthoses are very flexible and cushioned to relieve as much pressure as possible on your feet and foot joints. They are also designed to help prevent falls among the elderly.
• Short plantar orthotics: no need to wear an orthosis that covers the entire foot in order to correct certain podiatric issues. In general, there is little added value in having an orthotic device that reaches the toes, and full-length orthoses limit the choice of footwear. You have the option of wearing a shorter orthosis to accommodate a wider variety of footwear.

What’s the best way to adapt to wearing plantar orthotics?

The days when foot orthotics were a handicap to your daily activities are long gone! Nowadays, this type of equipment can be worn comfortably. Of course, there is an adaptation period, but your podiatrist is trained to ensure that this adaptation period is as short as possible. The length of adaptation varies from case to case, but wearing orthotics is usually done gradually over 1 to 2 weeks, which allows your feet to become accustomed to the device.

During the first two weeks, it is normal to experience minor discomfort while wearing an orthosis. It actually changes the way your muscles work and modifies the position of your foot, which can lead to changes in your gait. Your entire body will have to adapt, which can cause aches and pains in your feet and legs. However, the podiatrist will have previously conducted a complete evaluation of your feet and will design a treatment plan so that you can become accustomed to it as quickly as possible. It is very important to follow instructions to the letter in order to quickly return to the normal course of your life. When your adjustment period is over and you are comfortable and symptom-free, you can resume your regular sports activities with your orthotics.

Initially, your podiatrist will recommend that you wear your orthotics for only one hour each day. Then, gradually, you will increase the number of hours. Don’t hesitate to contact your clinic if you have any questions or doubts about your condition during this adjustment period.

In the weeks following the adjustment, if you experience significant discomfort, you should contact your clinic to learn whether the discomfort you are experiencing is normal. Your podiatrist can recommend exercises to make your foot more receptive to wearing an orthosis, or make modifications to the device to make it more comfortable.

Since the orthosis is a device that works over a gradual period of time, it generally takes between 4 and 8 weeks to see significant progress in reducing your level of pain for which the orthoses were designed.

Properly caring for your plantar orthotics

In order to benefit from the most effective treatment to correct a foot problem, it is important to take care of your custom orthosis. Just like a dental appliance or prosthesis, it must be cleaned regularly to increase its durability.

Below are a few simple steps to take to protect your plantar orthotics:

• Wash the orthosis frequently with mild soap and a cloth soaked in warm water. Be careful not to damage it by immersing it in water.
• At the end of the day, remove the plantar orthosis from your shoe to prevent the growth of any bacteria caused by humidity, then allow it to dry completely at room temperature until the next morning.
• If your orthotic device emits a strong odour, spray it with an anti-odour product. Your podiatrist can suggest various products.
• Avoid placing the foot orthotic directly on a heat source, such as a radiator, or exposing it to direct sunlight.
• Carefully clean the inside of your shoes before replacing the orthosis.
• Never leave your foot orthosis within reach of your pooch or kitty.

Lastly, in addition to any follow-up visits, it is recommended to consult your podiatrist once a year so that they can conduct an in-depth review of your plantar orthosis and ensure that it is still performing the task for which it was designed.

Who pays for the plantar orthotics?

Many patients at PiedRéseau clinics often wonder if their plantar orthotics are covered by their insurance plan or if they are tax deductible. You should know that it is quite possible to have your orthotic devices reimbursed, in whole or in part, by your private insurance companies if they are covered under your plan. In addition, the portion that is not covered can be used for income tax deduction purposes.

The Ministère du Travail, de l’Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale contributes up to $180 towards the cost of your orthotics. A document signed by your podiatrist is required to prove the necessity of your plantar orthotics. The replacement of an orthosis is reimbursed every two years, except for podiatric plantar orthoses. In addition, if a third party assumes a portion of the cost of the orthotics, the amount is deducted from the contribution provided by the Ministère. You may also be reimbursed by the federal government.

The Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec does not pay for the cost of plantar orthotics. However, your group insurance plan at work may pay for part or all of the cost. The Commission des normes de l’équité, de la santé et de la sécurité au travail (CSST), and Indiginous and Northern Affairs Canada and Veterans Affairs Canada also assume the costs, but you must request prior authorization before visiting a clinic.