FAQs about Custom Orthotic Services
Please note that we've answered all these questions in our Welcome To booklet which part of our Patient Intake documents, and is available as a pdf for you to print off and peruse at your leisure.
If you have any other questions, please Contact Us and we will be more than happy to assist you. |
What is a Certified orthotist?
A Certified Orthotist is a medical professional skilled in the manufacture, application and use of an orthosis. The steps towards becoming a Certified Orthotist are:
Certified Orthotists are recognized as the experts in the field of custom orthoses by: The Canadian Medical Association The Canadian Association of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation The Canadian Orthopaedic Association The Ontario Ministry of Health & Long Term Care, Assistive Devices Branch Please refer to this paper from OPC: Certified Orthotist vs non-credentialed 'Orthotist' What is an orthosis?
An Orthosis (plural = orthoses, from the Greek”Ortho” meaning straight), is a device that helps the body move in a more efficient and comfortable way, or can be used to simply align and support as in the case of a splint. Leg, arm and spinal braces, foot orthotics and splints are all considered orthoses. While all orthoses that we provide are intended to brace various parts of the body and prevent further deformity from misalignment, we go beyond, with our innovative functional control orthotic designs. Not only do these designs brace the existing deformity but also work to counteract, straighten and prevent it from reoccurring. Our Certified Orthotist, Eric Bapty, is able to provide this service by drawing on his knowledge and understanding of pathomechanics to address the underlying cause of the problem. Pathomechanics is an applied science that studies the mechanical forces, both static and dynamic, acting on the human body as a result of a neurological, muscular or skeletal disorder. Eric has been successfully fitting and manufacturing functional control orthoses for over ten years and is one of a few Certified Orthotist in Ontario with this extensive experience. What does "Custom-Made" really mean?
The term “Custom-Made” can be very confusing. In our case, custom-made means that we cast, manufacture on site, supply and fit the device. Fitting also includes follow-up appointments for adjustments so that the maximum benefit may be derived from the device. Adjustments are almost always done while you wait. “Custom Made” can also mean that the device is made for you at a central manufacturing laboratory. This is especially true of foot orthotics and knee braces. The individual casting, measuring or taking an imprint either manually or via a computerized system may not have the expertise to properly fit and adjust the device. Whenever you are looking at purchasing an orthotic device, be sure to ask:
Can you provide a prescription?
To avoid conflict of interest, Orthotics Prosthetics Canada, the governing body of Certified Orthotists, decreed in its code of ethics that Certified Orthotists cannot prescribe, but rather must fulfill the prescription of the referring medical professional. Should you wish to visit us before seeing your family physician or specialist, we can provide a written assessment for you and your medical professional. Please ask us for details. is there a warranty policy?
For custom-made orthoses (braces or foot orthotics) manufactured on our premises which have been used under normal conditions and whose original design has not been altered by the patient: Custom Braces: (As per the Ontario Assistive Devices Program Policy)
Patients covered under the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) should note that the program does not provide funding for any repairs. However, ADP may partially cover adjustments due to growth or change in medical condition. For complete details concerning the replacements covered by this program, please talk to our staff What happens when I visit you?
Our Certified Orthotist first takes your medical history and physically examines the areas of discomfort. Other types of non-invasive examination may be done such as a Harris Mat technique and gait analysis, or video taping for subsequent computer analysis depending on the device prescribed. Casting is required for many orthoses, usually a quick drying fibreglass. We do not take X-rays, but will consult them if provided by your referring medical professional. Your orthosis is manufactured at our facility by Eric, our Certified Orthotist, and Wendy, our Orthotic Technician. At your next appointment Eric will ensure that your orthotic device fits properly, and advise you on the best way to become accustomed to it. We are happy to make minor adjustments at no extra charge during the warranty period after delivery. After this time, a fee will be charged. To ensure everything is functioning as it should, a six-month follow-up appointment is scheduled for you after your final check-up appointment. Do you have any sports bracing?
Advanced Orthodynamics offers a wide variety of devices for use in sports and our clients include both amateur and professional athletes. To ensure that your device is providing you with the best possible fit and function, we provide you with adjustments free of charge during the manufacturer’s warranty period. We are also able to custom design your knee brace to include the colours of your favourite team. For devices such as leg or spinal braces, you are able to choose an NHL or NFL insignia to incorporate into the design. Please ask us for further details and cost. Where can i find your privacy policy?
Please click here for a pdf file of our policy or visit Forms for both regular and large print documents. What is your accessibility policy?
Please click here for a pdf file of our policy or visit Forms for both regular and large print documents. Do you hold any clinics outside Hamilton?
Clinical services are provided through Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital (Burlington) and the Hamilton hospitals at the request of the attending specialist. Please contact us to book an appointment. What funding is there for braces?
Please see our Funding page for more information. What is your payment policy?
For all custom-made orthotics, a deposit of 50% of the cost of the device ($50.00 minimum) is required before commencement of manufacturing. For clients receiving assistance through the Assistive Devices Program (ADP), 50% deposit of the patient portion (i.e. the amount not covered by ADP) is required. Kindly note that devices fully funded by an agency such as the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board do not require a deposit. For all non-custom bracing, a 50% deposit is necessary. The balance owed by the patient must be paid before the device is dispensed. For your convenience we accept Interac, Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, Cash, and a Certified Cheque or Bank Draft/Money Order. We also have gift certificates available; please ask our receptionist for more details. We do not accept personal cheques. Do you sell any shoes?
We do not carry a selection of shoes, but our Certified Orthotist is trained to properly measure your feet and assess your needs. He can then recommend the type of shoe you may need and order special orthopaedic shoes that you choose from several speciality shoe catalogues. |
