The Role of a Pedorthist
Canadian Certified Pedorthists are orthotic and orthopaedic footwear experts trained in postural analysis, movement patterns, and musculoskeletal examination. More specifically, they focus on the assessment of lower limb anatomy, muscle and joint function, as well as the interaction of the foot and lower limb with the rest of the body.
With specialized education and training in foot orthoses and footwear, Canadian Certified Pedorthists help to alleviate pain, abnormalities, and debilitating conditions of the lower limbs and feet.
Canadian Certified Pedorthists consult with patients based on referrals from physicians, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare providers. The goal of every Canadian Certified Pedorthist is to help patients achieve and maintain proper foot care and lower limb health, and live healthy, active lives.
Through a sustained relationship between pedorthist and patient – and depending on the precise nature of a specific patient’s condition – pedorthic care can help prevent further pain and debilitation, and the related inconvenience and expense for patients, insurers, and the healthcare system.
Pedorthic billings to the insurance industry will include a level of advice, service, and product. Currently, pedorthists do not bill separately for services such as assessment, patient education and advice, fitting, and follow-up appointments if orthoses, shoes, or other pedorthic devices are provided. Rather, these professional costs are included in the price of the prescribed products or provided modifications.
Pedorthic Designations
Certified Pedorthic Master Craftsman – C. Ped MC
A C. Ped MC has been certified as a C. Ped (C) and is also certified in custom shoe design and manufacturing.
Certified Pedorthist (Canada) – C. Ped (C) (also, “Canadian Certified Pedorthist”)
A C. Ped (C) is highly educated in postural analysis, movement patterns, and musculoskeletal examination. More specifically, a C. Ped (C) focuses on the assessment of lower limb anatomy, muscle and joint function, as well as the interaction of the foot and lower limb with the rest of the body. In addition, a C. Ped (C) is trained in the design, manufacture, and modification of foot appliances, and the clinical fitting and modification of footwear for the purposes of: (a) alleviating painful or debilitating conditions; and (b) providing assistance for abnormalities or limited actions of the lower limb.
Certified Pedorthic Technician (Canada) – C. Ped Tech (C)
A C. Ped Tech (C) is trained in the practice of shoe fitting, footwear modification, and orthosis fabrication from files produced by healthcare professionals with the ability to assess, such as a C. Ped (C) or C. Ped MC. A C. Ped Tech(C) may perform the duties of a clinical pedorthist under the direct supervision of a C. Ped (C) or a C. Ped MC.
Certified Orthopaedic Footwear Specialist – COFS
This is a legacy status presented to founding members who joined together to create the Pedorthic Association of Canada. This is a closed membership category and no new designations are being awarded. COFS members laid the foundation of pedorthics and the College of Pedorthics of Canada has verified their competency. These practitioners provide assessments, casting, measuring, and manufacturing of orthoses, orthopaedic, and custom footwear.
Download – A Resource for Canada’s Insurance Industry as a PDF
VIDEO: Why Choose a Pedorthist?
VIDEO: How Pedorthists Treat Pain
