Pedorthic Department

Pedorthics (ped-or-thix)
Is the design, manufacture, modification and fit of footwear, including foot orthoses, to alleviate foot problems caused by disease, congenital defect, overuse, or injury.  Without a shoe, a foot orthoses can't do its job.  With an appropriate one the foot can get the treatment the doctor prescribes.

Pedorthics & Orthoses
An Orthosis (or orthotic) is an apparatus that supports, aligns, prevents or corrects deformities, and improves function for a section of the body.  Most orthoses, like a back or knee brace, "wrap" or cradle the body area they're intended to help.  A foot orthosis, however, is unique.  While its goal is to improve, a foot orthosis can only achieve its goal in conjunction with a shoe.

Why does a foot orthosis depend on a shoe?
It's the shoe that holds the orthosis in the proper place under the foot.  Shoes can maximize the value of an orthosis, or limite it.  That is why an orthosis, when removed from one type of shoe into another type, might not work as well.  Because an orthosis takes up room that would otherwise be for the foot, not all shoe types are suitable for an orthosis.  Many of today's shoes, however, are manufactured with a removable inlay, which is the "bed" the foot rests on in the shoe. When the inlay is removed, there should be sufficient space to replace it with an orthosis.

When is a Footwear Prescription Needed?
People often wear over-the-counter orthotics for comfort reasons.  Generally, a prescription is not needed to relieve minor aches and pains.  When a medical condition is present in the foot such as injury, arthritis, diabetes, or poor circulation,  a pedorthic prescription is standard.  Any Healthcare provider qualified to prescribe can write a pedorthic prescription.

Your Office Visit
The Shoe Tree Pedorthic Dept.  offers a full range of care.  Patients are seen by appointment Monday thru Friday only, and by special arrangement on the weekends.  Our Comfort Shoe Store is located on site and open 7 days a week to serve you.

Are you diabetic and on Medicare?
If so, you may be eligible to receive a pair of qualifying shoes and cushioned diabetic inserts per calendar year.  If you are on Medicare and have a supplemental or secondary insurance,  there will be little or no cost out of pocket to you.