You may be interested in orthopaedic shoes because you've heard they help ease foot or ankle discomfort. But do you know what features distinguish them from standard footwear? To put your mind at ease, we've got you covered. Here, we'll discuss what orthopaedic shoes are and why you might need them. Also, we will answer the crucial issue of whether or not they are covered by insurance in Canada.
What distinguishes orthopaedic shoes from the rest? The architecture of these shoes is geared at easing pressure on your feet and ankles. Pedorthists, Podiatrists, Chiropodists and general practitioners often suggest them to people with foot and ankle problems like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, bunions, and other similar conditions.
So, how do orthopaedic shoes differ from regular shoes? Orthopaedic shoes tend to have more depth, extra width options, rocker forefoot structure, strong heel counters and options for pronation or supination control, among other things, to make them more comfortable and supportive. On top of that, they come equipped with components that alleviate discomfort, including arch supports, heel cups, and large toe boxes. Every component in these shoes acts individually and together to give your feet the special care they have been yearning for a while.
Before purchasing orthopaedic shoes, consult with your family doctor or a podiatrist. It is also wise to ask your insurance company if orthopaedic shoes are covered. If you wear shoes that provide enough arch support and cushioning, you may take steps toward improving not just the health of your feet but also your general wellness.
If you are considering orthopaedic shoes, knowing about the main types recognized by the College of Chiropodists of Ontario can be helpful. They are:
Custom-made Orthopaedic Shoes
They are custom-made footwear that is designed around an impression of your feet. These shoes are the priciest choice, yet they provide the finest comfort and support for your feet.
Custom-fitted Orthopaedic Shoes
These are shoes that have been altered to suit your feet per a prescription given to you by your primary care physician or podiatrist. This footwear style is highly recommended for those seeking a middle ground between personalization and price.
Off-the-shelf Orthopaedic Shoes
These are prefabricated footwear that comes in conventional sizes. They're less costly than having a pair custom-made, and you can get them in various colours and styles, but they may not be the best fit.
Orthopaedic footwear that is supportive and comfortable is available for various foot problems. Here are a few examples:
Plantar Fasciitis - Wearing orthopaedic shoes with adequate arch support can help reduce pain and irritation in the plantar fascia (the band of tissue that runs down the bottom of the foot).
Flat Feet - Arch-supporting orthopaedic shoes is ideal for those who suffer from flat feet since it helps distribute weight more evenly over the foot.
Bunions - -By reducing the pressure on the toes, orthopaedic shoes with wide toe boxes may help ease the pain of bunions and keep them from worsening.
Arthritis - Orthopaedic shoes may help ease some of the pain and suffering caused by arthritis by giving more cushioning and absorbing stress.
Diabetic Foot Complications - People with diabetes are less likely to get foot injuries and other problems when they wear orthopaedic shoes with extra cushioning and roomy toe boxes.
Insurance Coverage: Does Insurance in Canada cover Orthopaedic Shoes?
It's natural to wonder if your health insurance will cover orthopaedic shoes if you're thinking about trying them on. Government health plans in Canada do not normally cover the expense of orthopaedic shoes; however, some private insurance plans do.
You should check with your health insurer to see if orthopaedic footwear is covered. Ask about any coverage limits or restrictions, for example, the maximum amount that will be reimbursed or the kinds of orthopaedic shoes that will be covered
Brands and Styles Covered by Insurance
You may be able to use a variety of shoe manufacturers and designs if you have coverage for non-custom orthopaedic footwear. However, it’s vital to remember that each policy is unique and might vary from plan to plan and from insurance provider to insurance provider.
Brands of Orthopaedic Shoes That Are Usually Covered
Some orthopaedic shoe brands, like Saucony, Asics, Cambrian, Keen, Portofino, Anodyne, and APEX, may be covered by insurance. You can get shoes from these well-known brands with different styles and features that will make your feet and ankles feel better.
Other Brands of Orthopaedic Footwear
Your health insurance or employer's benefits package may cover the cost of buying some particular brands of orthopaedic shoes. Find out whether your policy covers specific brands and models.
Coverage Limitations
It's worth noting that insurance policies often exclude orthopaedic shoes with open toes or heavy soles, like winter boots. But shoe coverage can vary from policy to policy, so it's important to check with your insurance company.
