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Wearing & Instruction Guide
What Exactly Are Orthotics?
Orthotics are prescription devices worn inside your regular shoes that your doctor has
prescribed precisely for you. They have been designed and crafted to help make your feet function in
an optimal neutral position. In a sense, orthotics provide the same service to your feet as glasses do for your eyes. In other words, they help make your feet function more efficiently. And, like glasses, each person must have his or her own prescription for othotics.
How Do Orthotics Help?
Orthotics are made to fit comfortably inside your shoes and should be worn at all times to maximize the benefits they provide. As your foot rests comfortably on the orthotic, the device gently and consistently forces the foot into the correct position for walking, running or standing. Pressure points, improper rotation of the foot, painful muscle strain - all are eliminated because the orthotic causes your foot to function in the proper way.
Remember, orthotics do not cure your foot problems, any more than glasses cure your vision problems. Orthotics modify the function of your foot as long as you continue to wear them. Your feet are your body's foundation. They work
hard each day. Even the slightest misalignment of the bones and muscles can cause
considerable discomfort. In fact, many times back and neck pain are a direct result of foot problems. Obtaining and consistenly wearing prescription orthotics is a sound investment toward your overall well-being.
Instructions and General Information
-If possible, purchase a new pair of shoes which have a deep heel seat and high, firm heel counter.
-Do not insert your othotics until you are satisfied that your shoes fit comfortably without the orthotics in them. Now, insert the orthotics. Most people find that they do not need larger size shoes. However, if you do, you can now determine how much larger they must be. Avoid oversizing.
-If you cannot obtain new shoes, make certain the heels and soles on your present shoes are in good condition and not worn down.
Before using orthotics in either new or old shoes, it is important that you remove all arch supports, rubber or felt additions, "cookies" or other inserts from the shoes.
How Long Should Orthotics Be Worn?
Wear your orthotics initially for one hour the first day. Extend this to two hours the next day, increasing one hour per day for the first week. After one week, you should wear them every day for the entire day's
activitiy.
Sensations To Be Aware Of
Some sensations you may be aware of when first using your orthotics are:
-A feeling of firmness or pressure in the heel.
-Mild to moderate pressure in the arch.
-Mild awareness of the outer borders and heel seats of the orthotics.
-Mild pressure in the instep, particularly in high-arched feet. (This can be alleviated by loosening the laces of your shoes over the affected areas of your feet.)
Remember, your feet, legs, muscles and bones are going to be moving and funtioning differently than before and you may be aware of this in the early stages of using your orthotics. Occasionally, you may develop new
sensations. If so, advise your doctor at once. However, most situations are usually temporary and disappear shortly.
On rare occasions, a slight adjustment to your orthotics may be necessary to "fine tune" the realignment process.
Some Facts You Should Know
Your orthotics are custom-made with more than twenty precision manufacturing stages, using
the latest technology materials and components. However, you deliver thousands of
pounds of crushing, twisting pressure as you actively engage in your daily activities. Consequently, your orthotics will slowly show signs of wear and tear in
various ways. When that eventually happens, they can be taken apart, reconstructed and totally refurbished for a nominal charge. Though rare, even in the early stages of use, you might notice a slight peeling of a top cover. This can be re-adhered using a good quality contact cement.
Caring For Your Orthotics
-Leather: Air dry and spray with deodorizing powder. Let dry completely before use.
-Plastic: May be scrubbed lightly with mild soap and water. Wipe down with paper towel and allow to dry completely before use.
Follow these suggestions and instructions carefully.
Be sure to visit your doctor regularly to maintain the full benefits of your orthotic
devices.
PERFORMANCE + PLUS
Orthotics Insurance Plan
Click
here for more details on our insurance plan
Performance Plus Orthotics Insurance includes the following:
-Outgrowth Protection: This protection is especially valuable for children with growing feet. One
prescription change (outgrowth) from a new casting is available free of charge during your two-year policy.
-Required Adjustments: Orthotic adjustments ordered by your doctor are made without cost to you.
-Breakage and Damage Guarantee: During normal wear, if your orthotics break or sustain damage, we will make a replacement from your original casts at no charge. (Does not include deliberately damaged or broken devices.)
-Loss Replacement: If your orthotics are lost or stolen, we will make replacements from your original casts at a cost of
$30 per orthotic, or $60 per pair.
Please Note The Following:
-Deadline to apply for orthotic insurance is four weeks from the date
of manufacture which is shown on the front cover of the
Instruction Guide that came with your orthotics.
-When requesting replacements because of outgrowth, breakage or damage,
the insured orthotics MUST be returned. Your are responsible for all shipping and handling fees.
-Special order leather top covers are not covered by this policy.
-Your doctor must sign all claim forms and your doctor's fees are not covered by this renewable insurance plan.
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