Frequently Asked Questions

Orthotics are custom-made or prefabricated shoe inserts designed to support, align, and improve the function of your feet and lower limbs. They work by redistributing pressure, controlling abnormal motion, and providing cushioning and support where needed. By correcting biomechanical imbalances, orthotics can help reduce pain, improve posture, and enhance overall movement efficiency. At Orthotic FX, we use advanced 3D scanning and printing technology to create orthotics that are precisely tailored to your unique foot structure and biomechanical needs.

Orthotics can effectively treat a wide range of conditions affecting the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. Common conditions include plantar fasciitis (heel pain), Achilles tendinopathy, shin splints, flat feet (pes planus), high arches (pes cavus), bunions, metatarsalgia (ball of foot pain), Morton's neuroma, knee pain, hip pain, and lower back pain related to poor foot mechanics. Orthotics can also help with sports injuries, diabetic foot care, and general foot fatigue or discomfort.

Custom-made orthotics are individually crafted based on a detailed assessment of your feet and biomechanics. At Orthotic FX, we use 3D scanning to capture your exact foot shape and create orthotics tailored specifically to your needs. These offer the highest level of precision and are ideal for complex conditions or specific performance requirements.

Prefabricated orthotics are pre-made devices that can be modified or adjusted by a podiatrist to better suit your needs. They provide a middle-ground option that can be effective for many conditions.

Over-the-counter orthotics are generic insoles available in pharmacies and shoe stores. While they can provide basic cushioning and support, they are not designed to address specific biomechanical issues and may not be suitable for treating foot conditions.

You may benefit from orthotics if you experience persistent foot, heel, ankle, knee, hip, or lower back pain; notice uneven wear patterns on your shoes; have visible foot deformities such as flat feet, high arches, or bunions; experience fatigue or discomfort in your feet or legs during standing, walking, or exercise; or have been diagnosed with conditions like plantar fasciitis, shin splints, or Achilles tendinopathy. The best way to determine if orthotics are right for you is to have a comprehensive biomechanical assessment with a qualified podiatrist.

The lifespan of orthotics depends on several factors including the materials used, your activity level, body weight, and how well you care for them. Custom 3D-printed orthotics typically last 3-5 years or longer with proper care. Prefabricated orthotics may last 1-2 years. Signs that your orthotics may need replacing include visible wear, cracking, reduced cushioning, or a return of symptoms. We recommend regular review appointments to assess the condition and effectiveness of your orthotics.

Please refer to our Fees page for current pricing on all our services including consultations, biomechanical assessments, and orthotic devices. Custom orthotic devices are $300 per device, and we also offer Spriing Orthotic Insoles at $220 per pair. The total cost of treatment will depend on your individual needs and may include initial consultation, biomechanical assessment, 3D scanning, and the orthotics themselves. Private health insurance may cover some or all of the cost depending on your policy.

Yes, podiatry services including orthotic therapy are typically covered by private health insurance policies that include extras or ancillary cover. The amount of rebate you receive depends on your specific policy and level of cover. We have HICAPS facilities available for on-the-spot claims, allowing you to claim your rebate immediately and only pay the gap. We recommend checking with your health fund to confirm your coverage levels and any waiting periods that may apply.

No, you do not need a referral to see a podiatrist in Australia. Podiatrists are primary healthcare providers, which means you can book an appointment directly without needing to see your GP first. However, if you are claiming through Medicare under certain schemes (such as a Chronic Disease Management Plan), you will need a referral from your GP. For private health insurance claims, no referral is required.

No, we do not currently accept Medicare or DVA referrals. We are a private practice specialising in biomechanical assessment and custom orthotics. Payment is required at the time of consultation, and you can claim through your private health insurance if you have extras cover. If you require services through Medicare or DVA, we recommend contacting your GP for a referral to an appropriate provider.

No, we do not accept Workcover, Motor Accident, or Public Liability claims at this time. If you have a workplace injury or accident-related condition requiring podiatry services, please contact your case manager for information about approved providers in your scheme.

We are not a registered NDIS provider. However, we can provide services to NDIS participants who are Plan Managed or Self Managed. If you have Plan Managed or Self Managed funding, you can choose to see any provider including non-registered providers like us. Please speak with your plan manager or contact us to discuss how we can assist with your podiatry and orthotic needs.

Yes, children can benefit from orthotics when indicated. Paediatric orthotics are designed specifically for growing feet and can help address conditions such as flat feet, in-toeing, out-toeing, heel pain (Sever's disease), and other developmental concerns. It's important to note that some foot postures are normal developmental variations that children will outgrow, while others may benefit from intervention. A thorough assessment can determine whether orthotics are appropriate and beneficial for your child's specific needs.

In most cases, orthotics can be worn with your existing shoes, provided they have a removable insole and adequate depth to accommodate the orthotic. Lace-up shoes, trainers, and many work shoes work well with orthotics. However, some shoes such as high heels, slip-on shoes, or shoes without removable insoles may not be suitable. During your appointment, we'll assess your footwear and provide recommendations on which shoes will work best with your orthotics. We can also design orthotics to fit specific shoe types when needed.

Absolutely! Orthotics can be particularly beneficial for runners and athletes. Sports-specific orthotics are designed to accommodate the demands of your chosen activity, whether that's running, football, netball, tennis, or other sports. They can help improve performance, reduce injury risk, and address sport-related conditions such as shin splints, Achilles tendinopathy, and runner's knee. At Orthotic FX, we specialise in sports podiatry and can create orthotics tailored to your specific sport and performance goals.

The time it takes to feel the benefits of orthotics varies depending on the condition being treated, the severity of symptoms, and individual factors. Some people notice improvement within days, while others may take several weeks to fully adapt. We recommend a gradual break-in period, starting with a few hours per day and gradually increasing wear time over 1-2 weeks. This allows your body to adjust to the new support and alignment. We'll provide specific guidance during your fitting appointment and schedule follow-up reviews to ensure optimal results.

Yes, orthotics can often be adjusted or modified to improve comfort, fit, or function. Minor adjustments can be made to address issues such as pressure points, changes in footwear, or evolving needs. During your follow-up appointments, we assess how you're responding to the orthotics and make any necessary modifications. If your needs change significantly over time, a new pair may be recommended. Regular review appointments help ensure your orthotics continue to provide optimal support.

Orthotic technology and manufacturing have advanced significantly in recent years. Our 3D scanning and printing technology allows for unprecedented precision and customisation, resulting in orthotics that fit better and feel more comfortable than traditional methods. Additionally, modern materials are lighter, thinner, and more responsive. If you've had a negative experience with orthotics in the past, we encourage you to try again with our advanced approach. A thorough biomechanical assessment ensures we understand your specific needs and create orthotics that work for you, not against you.

Yes, orthotics are one of the most effective treatments for plantar fasciitis. They work by supporting the arch, reducing strain on the plantar fascia, and distributing pressure more evenly across the foot. Custom orthotics are particularly effective because they're designed to address your specific foot structure and biomechanics. Combined with other treatments such as stretching, strengthening exercises, and appropriate footwear, orthotics can significantly reduce heel pain and help you return to normal activities. Many of our patients with plantar fasciitis experience substantial improvement with orthotic therapy.

Yes, orthotics can be very helpful for people with flat feet (pes planus). While not everyone with flat feet needs orthotics, those experiencing symptoms such as foot pain, fatigue, knee or hip pain, or difficulty with prolonged standing or walking often benefit significantly. Orthotics for flat feet provide arch support, help control excessive pronation (rolling inward of the foot), and improve overall alignment. This can reduce pain, improve comfort, and help prevent secondary problems in the knees, hips, and lower back. A biomechanical assessment will determine the best approach for your specific situation.