Treatment Options

Orthotic Therapy Orthoses

Do you require Orthotic Therapy? Our expert team are here to help.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT

The Role of Foot Function in the Human Body

At Spinal & Sports Care, we understand how the function of the feet and legs during walking and running affects the entire body. This knowledge is essential when treating conditions such as heel pain, shin splints, bunions, big toe joint pain, knee pain, hip discomfort, and lower back pain.

Whether you are an elite athlete, a recreational runner, or someone who simply wants to stay active without pain, we place significant emphasis on how foot function influences posture, biomechanics, and the kinetic chain of the human body.

How We Assess and Manage Foot and Lower Limb Conditions

Our approach combines advanced technology with clinical expertise to address both acute injuries and chronic foot and lower limb problems. We focus on:

  • Correcting muscular imbalances and joint restrictions using strengthening and stretching programs tailored to the feet and lower limbs.
  • Performing detailed functional and gait assessments using pressure plate analysis, 3D optical scanning, and computerised movement analysis.
  • Employing soft or semi-rigid orthotics where required to optimise alignment and biomechanics.
  • Providing advice on sports shoes and orthopaedic footwear suited to each individual.
  • Utilising taping techniques, manual therapy, and hip, pelvic, and lumbo-sacral mobilisations to complement orthotic therapy.
  • Referring to medical specialists when appropriate for surgical or medical co-management.

Our clinicians are trained to evaluate the entire lower limb, from the hip down, using hands-on assessments combined with the latest podiatry technologies.

Orthotic Manufacturing Process

Spinal & Sports Care does not manufacture or produce orthoses on-site. Instead, our trained physiotherapists and chiropractors perform:

  • A full foot assessment
  • Functional and gait analysis
  • Computerised foot scans
  • Foam box casting for custom devices

These findings are then forwarded to a specialist orthotic laboratory for fabrication and production. We currently partner with a New South Wales–based laboratory that has been producing orthotics for over 30 years, supplying clinics nationwide in Australia. All orthotics, apart from over-the-counter options, are manufactured externally according to our detailed prescription forms.

Because we work with highly reputable laboratories, if a patient is not satisfied with the device, correction, or quality, they are always welcome to contact our clinic for further assistance. The laboratory offers a full warranty on all devices, subject to a fair use and fair wear-and-tear policy. Any device that does not meet expectations can be replaced or refunded directly through the laboratory, ensuring both our clinicians and patients have complete peace of mind about the quality, durability, and long-term benefits of their orthotics.

Orthotic Options and Cost Structure

We understand that orthotics can be expensive, and pricing varies significantly between clinics, podiatrists, and laboratories, as does the rebate structure from health funds. At Spinal & Sports Care, we provide three options to suit patient preference and budget:

  • Over-the-Counter Orthotics
    – Heat-moulded or pre-moulded devices tailored to the patient’s feet.
    – Suitable for entry-level support.
    – Typically under $100.
  • Semi-Custom Orthotics
    – Fabricated using a prefabricated shell modified in the laboratory based on the patient’s prescription.
    – Additions and corrections are made according to individual needs.
    – A more affordable option than full custom orthotics, suitable for those wanting greater correction than over-the-counter devices without the cost of full custom devices.
    – Prices typically range from $100–$350, depending on the complexity of modifications required.
    – Offer effective biomechanical correction for a wide range of conditions.
  • Full Custom Orthotics
    – Designed and manufactured entirely from the patient’s assessment, scans, and prescription data.
    – Made from the ground up by the external laboratory to meet all clinical specifications.
    – Prices typically start from $350+.
    – Recommended for patients requiring maximum correction or long-term solutions tailored to complex biomechanical needs.

All options provide effective biomechanical correction; the choice depends on patient preference, budget, and long-term needs. Our clinicians guide each patient through the options, ensuring they can make an informed decision and guaranteeing client satisfaction, which is fully backed by the laboratory’s lifetime warranty on all supplied devices.

When Are Orthotics Recommended?

Orthotics may be beneficial for patients experiencing:

  • Localised foot pain
  • Heel pain or plantar fasciitis
  • Bunions or hammer toes
  • Arch pain
  • Shin splints or knee pain
  • Hip or lower back discomfort related to poor biomechanics

Interesting Foot Facts

  • Women have four times the foot problems of men, largely due to footwear choices.
  • 75% of people will experience foot problems at some point in their lives.

Summary

At Spinal & Sports Care, orthotics are part of a comprehensive rehabilitation and injury prevention program. We integrate biomechanical assessments, exercise therapy, manual therapy, and footwear education alongside orthotic prescription to deliver complete care for lower limb injuries and postural problems.

Our partnership with long-standing, reputable laboratories ensures that every device is backed by comprehensive quality assurance, patient support, and warranty coverage, providing you with complete peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions

No referral is required. Our physiotherapists and chiropractors can assess your needs and prescribe appropriate orthotics directly.

If you experience foot, ankle, knee, hip, or lower back pain – especially when walking, running, or standing for long periods – orthotics may help by correcting biomechanical imbalances. A full assessment will determine whether orthotics are appropriate.

  • Over-the-counter orthotics are pre-made devices that can be heat-moulded to your feet for basic support.
  • Semi-custom orthotics start from a prefabricated shell and are modified by the laboratory according to your assessment for more personalised correction at an affordable cost.
  • Full custom orthotics are designed entirely from your scans and clinical prescription for maximum precision and long-term correction.
  • Over-the-counter orthotics are typically under $100.
  • Semi-custom orthotics range from $100 to $350, depending on the complexity of the modifications.
  • Full custom orthotics start at $350+.

An experienced laboratory manufacturer manufactures all devices with a lifetime warranty.

Many health funds provide rebates for orthotics depending on your level of cover. We can provide itemised invoices so you can claim directly with your fund.

With normal use, quality orthotics typically last several years. The laboratory warranty covers fair use and wear. If any issues arise with fit or quality, the laboratory will adjust, replace, or refund as required.

Not always. Some patients use them long-term for structural issues or chronic conditions. In contrast, others use them temporarily for pain relief or rehabilitation from injury. Your clinician will guide you based on your needs and goals.

Yes. Most orthotics are designed to fit into everyday shoes, work boots, and athletic footwear. For specialty shoes such as football boots or cycling shoes, we may recommend additional pairs or specific designs.

It is common to feel mild pressure during the first few days as your body adapts. Most patients adjust within one to two weeks. Our clinicians provide clear wear-in instructions to ensure a smooth process.

This depends on your injury, goals, and competition schedule. After assessment, your Sports Chiropractor will outline a treatment and performance plan tailored to your needs.