What are orthotics?
In layman’s terms, you may think of them simply as arch supports or shoe inserts. However, they are actually much, much more than that. Orthotics are orthopedic devices made to: treat or adjust abnormal foot motion; provide support, stability and control; increase balance; absorb shock; and relieve pressure on uncomfortable or sore spots. They may be pre-molded (over-the-counter) devices for conditions that are not severe, or custom made to address an individual’s specific needs. It is important to remember that your feet are the foundation of your body. How your feet perform can affect how your skeletal body feels and functions. The stability and efficiency of the foot and ankle promote better foot health and overall body function.n
Are orthotics the same as an insole?
Absolutely NOT! Most store bought inserts (also called insoles) are fabricated from nothing more than different density cellular sponge and/or foam rubber materials. They may provide some shock absorption, but little (if any) biomechanical/functional control or support. If you can bend an insert in half, it is nothing more than an insole. Ortho-Dynamics manufactures true orthotics, not flimsy rubber insoles. n
How are orthotics made?
Custom (prescription) orthotics are specifically crafted to meet an individual’s particular individual. This is done from a casted mold of the individual’s foot, which duplicates any misalignments in the foot . The casted mold, along with a prescription for recommended corrections, is sent to on orthotic laboratory. Highly skilled technicians at the laboratory use this mold of the foot and the physician’s prescription to fabricate an orthotic that incorporates the necessary adjustments. Pre-molded (non-prescription) orthotics are molded on (standard) wood arch models by shoe size, as opposed to an exact mold of the individual’s foot.n
How do I know if I need orthotics?
Orthotics can be very helpful in correcting biomechanical imbalances of the foot and ankle, such as excessive pronation or excessive supination. Over time, abnormal foot motions cause stresses that can lead to conditions such as Achilles tendinitis, bunions, heel spurs, metatarsalgia, Morton’s neuroma, plantar fasciitis (heel and arch pain), post-tib tendinitis, shin splints, tarsal tunnel syndrome, as well as knee pain (chondromalacia, iliotibial band syndrome), hip pain and lower back pain. They are also useful for people: who are very overweight; required to be on their feet for extended periods of time; or have a leg length discrepancy.Athletes use them to optimize performance and enhance comfort, and people with arthritic or diabetic foot conditions use them for comfort and protection. Orthotics can help prevent injury or deformity from occurring or halt the progression of existing problems, allowing healing to occur. However, even if no major conditions or symptoms exist, orthotics can provide protection and comfort for your feet, promoting good foot care.n
Will orthotics cure my foot problems?
Orthotics are not cure-all for all foot and related conditions. They are a conservative (non-invasive) treatment. They help your feet to function more efficiently, allowing healing to occur. If worn regularly they should help relieve pain and prevent the development of additional foot and related problems.n
Do I require custom or pre-molded orthotics?
You have to be the judge regarding this. If you have infections or ulcerations on the bottom of your feet, lack sensation, or have developed severe foot pain or deformities, you should consult a physician. Under these circumstances you may require a custom-made (prescription) orthotic designed to address your specific needs. If however, your foot symptoms are not severe or long term, pre-molded orthotics can provide many of the same therapeutic benefits, at a fraction of the cost.n
Will orthotics fit in all of my footwear?
No. Orthotics vary in size and thickness. You may be led to believe that one type of orthotic will fit all shoes, but this is not true. Ortho-Dynamics’ line of pre-molded orthotics are available for different footwear, different activities, and different conditions.n
How much do Ortho-Dynamics pre-molded orthotics cost?
They range in price from $49.95 to $69.95 per pair. We can make modifications to our devices if an individual requires more correction than our standard models provide. There is an additional charge of $10.00 per pair for any and all modifications. Shipping and handling charges are a flat $8.95 per order for domestic shipments, and a $25.00 per order for international shipments.n
How long will it take to get my pre-molded orthotics?
Standard (non-modified) orders are normally processed and shipped the following working day and modified orders within two (2) working days of receipt. We ship all domestic orders U.S. Priority Mail, with a delivery time of approximately two to three working days. International orders are shipped Global Priority Mail, with a delivery time of approximately five to seven working days.n
What are your methods of payment?
You can pay with a credit card ( over the internet using our secure order form, or you can printout our order form and mail it along with your credit card information, check or money order. Payment (by check or money order) should be made to Progressive Footcare Distributors. Our address is:nORTHO-DYNAMICSn210 E 16th StreetnPaterson, NJ 07524-2009nOtherwise, you can order via telephone, by calling us toll-free at 1 (800) 275-1842. Our phone hours are Monday – Friday, 7:00 AM until 5:00 PM, EST.n
Are your pre-molded orthotics returnable?
For sanitary reasons, our (standard) pre-molded devices are not returnable once they have been used. However, if upon receipt you are unhappy with the fit, quality or workmanship (and it was not a modified order) you are more than welcome to send them back for a (product) refund or exchange them for a different size.nModified orders (arch filler/extrinsic rear foot posting, heel lifts, lateral wedges/forefoot posting, metatarsal pads, 1st ray cutout, special requests, etc.) are not returnable, however, we do provide free adjustments if necessary.nAll of our devices come with a five year guarantee against orthotic (shell) breakage and one year guarantee on all component parts. We also provide (free) adjustments if necessary. Our goal is to provide you with 100% satisfaction!nIf you do return an (unused/unmodified) pair, or if you require an adjustment or exchange, please send your orthotics to:nORTHO-DYNAMICSnReturns/Adjustments Dept.n210 E 16th StreetnPaterson, NJ 07524-2009nWe suggest you insure your shipment. This is for your own protection should it get lost in transit.n
Can Ortho-Dynamics refurbish my custom (prescription) orthotics?
Yes, we have a custom orthotic “tune-up” program. If your existing orthotic (shells) are not cracked or damaged, we will repair or replace all component parts to their original condition, for $69.95 plus $8.95 shipping and handling. Your old orthotics will look and feel brand new! Note: NJ Residents please add $4.90 for Sales Tax.nIf you are interested in refurbishing your old (custom) orthotics to their original condition, you should write your name on the bottom of the orthotics and send them to:nORTHO-DYNAMICSnTune-up Dept.n210 E 16th StreetnPaterson, NJ 07524-2009nWe suggest you insure your shipment. This is for your own protection should it get lost in transit. nYou can pay by credit card (MC, VI or AX), check or money order. If you are paying by credit card, please be sure to include your billing and shipping address, the name on the credit card, your credit card number and the expiration date. Otherwise, payment should be made to Progressive Footcare Distributors for $76.90 ($69.95 plus $8.95 S/H).nPlease include a daytime telephone number just in case we have any questions.nTurnaround is approximately three to five working days at our laboratory and another two to three days shipping time.n
Can I order custom orthotics or braces directly from Ortho-Dynamics?
NO, custom orthotics and braces are only available through a physician’s office.n