Our feet are the foundation of every step we take, and when something is off at that foundation, it can affect everything above it. From chronic foot pain and knee discomfort to hip and back issues, poor alignment or biomechanics in the feet can cause a ripple effect throughout the body.

At Proactive Health in Richmond BC, our custom orthotics are designed to restore proper alignment, support natural movement, and relieve pain so you can stay active, comfortable, and confident in your everyday life.

What Are Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics are specialized medical devices that fit inside your shoes to support and correct the way your feet move. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, which offer generic cushioning, custom orthotics are individually crafted to match the exact shape of your feet and address your unique biomechanics.

At Proactive Health, your orthotics are prescribed by one of our healthcare professionals after a detailed assessment of your posture, gait, and lower-body mechanics. The goal is to provide not only comfort but also long-term correction and prevention of recurring pain or strain.

Custom orthotics are specialized medical devices that fit inside your shoes to support and correct the way your feet move. Unlike over-the-counter insoles, which offer generic cushioning, custom orthotics prescribed by a physiotherapist in Richmond BC, are individually crafted to match the exact shape of your feet and address your unique biomechanics.

At Proactive Health, your orthotics are prescribed following a detailed assessment of your posture, gait, and lower-body mechanics by our trained healthcare professionals. The goal is not only comfort but also long-term correction and prevention of recurring pain, all part of our physiotherapy care approach.

Why You Might Need Custom Orthotics

If you experience any of the following symptoms or conditions, custom orthotics may be the right solution for you:

• Chronic foot, heel, or arch pain (including plantar fasciitis)
• Flat feet or fallen arches
• Bunions or hammer toes
• Knee, hip, or lower back pain
• Uneven wear on shoes
• Shin splints or tendonitis
• Poor balance or posture
• Standing or walking for long periods at work

Orthotics help realign your body from the ground up, redistributing pressure evenly across your feet and improving how your joints and muscles work together. This not only supports foot health but also complements physiotherapy treatments for knee, hip, and back issues.

How the Custom Orthotics Process Works at Proactive Health

Your journey to better movement begins with a comprehensive biomechanical assessment at our Richmond physiotherapy clinic. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Detailed Consultation

Your appointment starts with an in-depth consultation with a registered physiotherapist or healthcare professional at our Richmond physiotherapy clinic. They will discuss your symptoms, lifestyle, footwear habits, and activity level to understand how your feet are affecting your overall movement and comfort.

• Symptoms, pain patterns, and medical history

• Work habits (e.g., standing long hours, repetitive movements, footwear type)

• Athletic or lifestyle demands (e.g., running, walking, or occupational needs)

• Previous injuries or conditions such as plantar fasciitis, knee pain, or back discomfort

2. Gait and Posture Analysis

We assess how you stand, walk, and move to identify any abnormalities such as overpronation, flat feet, or alignment issues. This analysis helps us determine how your feet are influencing other parts of your body, like your knees, hips, and spine.

• Gait patterns – identifying pronation, supination, or asymmetrical steps

• Weight distribution – spotting uneven pressure or imbalance

• Joint alignment – checking how your ankles, knees, hips, and spine line up during motion

• Foot mechanics – examining arch height, flexibility, and midfoot stability

This step helps determine whether custom orthotics, strengthening exercises, or physiotherapy sessions (or a combination) will provide the best results.

3. 3D Foot Scanning or Casting

Once we’ve identified your movement patterns, we use advanced 3D foot scanning technology or traditional casting techniques to capture precise measurements of your feet. The scan produces an exact digital model of your feet, ensuring your custom orthotics fit seamlessly and provide targeted support. This data is then analyzed by our physiotherapists and used to create a prescription tailored to your biomechanics, footwear preferences, and activity level.

4. Custom Design and Fabrication

Your orthotics are made from high-quality materials tailored to your needs, whether for daily wear, athletic shoes, work boots, or dress shoes. The design is based on the unique parameters identified in your assessment, from arch support and heel correction to shock absorption and flexibility.

Benefits of Custom Orthotics

Custom orthotics do more than just relieve foot pain, they improve how your entire body moves. At Proactive Health, our clients often notice benefits such as:

• Pain relief in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and lower back
• Improved posture and alignment
• Better balance and stability during movement
• Enhanced athletic performance and endurance
• Reduced fatigue when standing or walking for long periods
• Injury prevention for active individuals and athletes

By correcting the root cause of imbalance, orthotics not only help relieve existing discomfort but also prevent future problems from developing.

Why Choose Proactive Health for Custom Orthotics in Richmond

At Proactive Health, we believe proper movement starts with a proper foundation. Our healthcare professionals use a detailed, evidence-based approach to ensure every orthotic is designed to meet your specific needs. We go beyond simply fitting an insert, we assess your entire kinetic chain (from your feet to your hips and spine) to ensure full-body alignment and function.

We also integrate custom orthotics with our other services, such as physiotherapy, kinesiology, registered massage therapy and active rehabilitation, to help you achieve the best possible long-term results.

Whether you are an athlete, someone recovering from injury, or simply tired of living with pain, our goal is to help you move better, live pain-free, and stay active with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Orthotics

Are custom orthotics worth it?
Yes. Unlike store-bought insoles, custom orthotics are built specifically for your feet and movement patterns. They provide targeted support that can prevent pain, improve posture, and protect your joints long-term.

How long do custom orthotics last?
Most custom orthotics last between 2 and 5 years, depending on use, activity level, and footwear. We recommend follow-up assessments regularly to ensure your orthotics still meet your needs as your body and lifestyle change.

Can I wear orthotics in different shoes?
Yes, in most cases. Orthotics can be made for different shoe types, including athletic shoes, dress shoes, or work boots. Your practitioner can advise on the best fit for your lifestyle or recommend multiple pairs if needed.

Are custom orthotics covered by insurance?
Many extended health insurance plans in British Columbia cover part or all of the cost of custom orthotics. Coverage varies depending on your plan, so it’s best to check with your insurance provider. We offer direct billing to most major providers for convenience.

Do I need a referral for custom orthotics?
No referral is required. You can book an assessment directly with Proactive Health. If you plan to use insurance coverage, some plans may request a prescription from your doctor — we can guide you through this process.

Book your custom orthotics assessment at Proactive Health in Richmond BC, today and take the first step toward pain-free movement and better alignment from the ground up.