I have worked as a Canadian Certified Pedorthist for 10 years but I continue to be surprised by the number of patients I see who have delayed pedorthic treatment for months, needlessly living with pain or decreased mobility. When I ask these patients why they waited so long, many say they believed the pain and reduced activity were simply things they had to live with.
If you are unsure if you should book a consultation with a Canadian Certified Pedorthist, ask yourself the following questions:
• Are you experiencing pain in your heels, forefeet, toes or ankles?
• Are you suffering from unexplained pain in your back, hips or knees?
• Are you living with diabetes or arthritis?
• Is discomfort in your lower limbs preventing you from participating in all the activities you would like?
• Do you have difficulty finding footwear that fits comfortably?
• Are the wear patterns on the soles of your everyday shoes uneven?
• Have you experienced a serious foot or lower limb injury?
If you answered yes to any of the above questions you should definitely seek pedorthic treatment.
As foot orthotic and orthopaedic footwear specialists, Canadian Certified Pedorthists provide a wide range of services to help patients with an extensive array of foot and lower limb conditions. They undergo extensive training in lower limb anatomy and biomechanics to ease pain and increase mobility. Your Pedorthist will:
• Assess your feet and lower legs and evaluate how you walk or run
• Educate you about your foot or lower limb condition and the recommended treatment
• Provide custom-made foot orthotics or over-the-counter devices if appropriate
• Professionally fit you with orthopaedic footwear that is appropriate for your foot type and condition
• Modify footwear to accommodate problem areas
To arrange a consultation with a Pedorthist in your community, book an appointment with your family physician and ask for a referral to a Canadian Certified Pedorthist. When you go for your initial assessment with your Pedorthist wear a pair of shorts or loose pants that can be rolled to your knees and take your everyday/work shoes and sports shoes if appropriate. Also remember to take your physician’s referral.
Your Pedorthist will quickly get you on a treatment program to ease your pain and get you back doing the activities you enjoy.
By Paul Mäkinen, C. Ped (C), Halifax, Nova Scotia