Orthotic Repairs Melbourne
Orthotic repairs in Melbourne by qualified podiatrists
Melbourne Podiatrists & Orthotics can repair and refurbish your custom orthotics and make them like new again. This service is performed onsite by our podiatrists at our Melbourne foot clinic. Our podiatrists can perfom almost any orthotic repair and we stock a wide range of orthotic top cover materials.
We know how important your orthotics are to your feet so we deliver quick turnaround times on all of our orthotic repairs. Simply drop your orthotics into us for a free assessment and repair quote by one of our podiatrists.
NB. If your orthotics are over 5 years old then we strongly recommend making an appointment for a full orthotic review.
Which types of orthotics are eligible for this service?
If your custom orthotics were professionally prescribed by one of our Melbourne podiatrists or made at our Melbourne podiatry clinic then we can offer this repair service to you.
Unfortunately as a rule we do not repair orthotics made at another clinic or made by another podiatrist. This is for the following reasons:
- We have no background of you, your symptoms or your orthotic history
- We don’t know if your orthotics have been prescribed accurately
- Orthotic repairs and modifications can alter orthotic function
My orthotics are made elsewhere what can I do?
If your custom orthotics have been made elsewhere by another podiatrist don’t despair. We would still love to see you and your orthotics at our Melbourne foot clinic. We just suggest you make an appointment with one of our podiatrists first for an orthotic assessment. Our Melbourne podiatrists will assess your orthotics and let you know if they are still functional. They will let you know if they can be repaired or if they could be improved and in need of replacing.
Types of orthotic repairs perfomed at our Melbourne clinic
Our Melbourne podiatrists can perfom almost any type of orthotic repair at our Melbourne podiatry clinic. This includes repairs to custom orthotics and non-cast orthotics as follows:
Old orthotic covers are removed and replaced with brand new orthotic topcovers. The orthotic covers can either be shell length (to the end of the orthotic), web (to the webbing under your toes) or full length (to the end of the shoe) and can be made by our podiatrists in a wide choice of materials.
Different padding options can be replaced or incorporated into new covers. Padding options are generally made out of poron or soft EVA and options include metatarsal domes, winged plantar covers, accommodative padding and more.
Rearfoot and forefoot posts can be replaced or added to your orthotics. These are generally made of firm EVA and help add stability and correction to an orthotic.
Heel lifts can be replaced or added onto your orthotics. These are generally made out of a firm EVA material and are approximately 5mm in height. Heel lifts can help reduce strain on lower leg muscles and improve foot function in patients with tight or restricted ankle flexion. They can also be used by our podiatrists to help address a limb length discrepancy.
There are plenty of other orthotic modifications that our podiatrists can perfom. This includes orthotic shell modifications or other orthotic additions. These are primarily done to reduce symptoms, improve orthotic function and ultimately improve foot function. If unsure please call us and speak to one of our podiatrists.
We stock a wide range of orthotic cover materials
At our Melbourne podiatry clinic we have a wide range of orthotic cover materials to match your specific needs. The materials our podiatrists stock are the same used by most podiatry orthotic labs. Some materials are designed for cushioning and to reduce friction whilst some are designed to be hard wearing and durable. Choice of orthotic materials include:
Vinyl is a thin synthetic leather material with a smooth finish. It is extremely tough and durable making it our most popular orthotic top cover for daily use. It has the advantage that it is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and can be wiped clean with a damp cloth if it gets dirty. It wont absorb moisture making it great for perspiring feet.
Colours we stock = Black
NB. Other colours are available on request but these repairs will be performed at our orthotic lab, resulting in a slight increase in costs and turnaround times (approximately 10-14 days).
Opulex performance is a high performance two layered material consisting of a closed cell neoprene bottom layer glued to a nylon top layer. It is a material with excellent cushioning and abrasive properties. It is a great orthotic top cover choice for sporting footwear as it helps to prevent friction and blisters.
Colours we stock = Blue (1.5mm & 3mm)
Lunasoft is a lightweight and flexible EVA orthotic material with good cushioning properties. It is a popular top cover choice for athletic and walking footwear and a good durable “all-rounder”.
Colours we stock = Blue
NB. Other colours are available on request but these repairs will be performed at our orthotic lab, resulting in a slight increase in costs and turnaround times (approximately 10-14 days).
PS vlies is an extremely hard wearing thin orthotic material with a felt like feel. It is a great top cover for daily wear when foot perspiration isn’t an issue.
Colours we stock = Black
NB. Other colours are available on request but these repairs will be performed at our orthotic lab, resulting in a slight increase in costs and turnaround times (approximately 10-14 days).
Leather is natural, breathable hard wearing orthotic material with a smooth texture. It can withstand small amounts of moisture.
Not a stock material*
* Leather orthotic top covers are performed by our orthotic lab and as a result turnaround times are longer approximatel 10-14 days.
Poron is an engineered medium density, micro cellular foam material. It has excellent cushioning properties whilst resisting compression making it a long lasting cushioning material. Poron is mostly used by our podiatrists for additions, padding and as a cushioning layer under orthotic topcovers.
Colours we stock = Light blue (1.5mm, 3mm & 5mm)
Cambrelle is a thin, resilient, high performance lining material that is breathable and extremely durable in all conditions. It is mostly used by our podiatrists as an orthotic bottom cover to help prevent wear and tear on the bottom of forefoot orthotic covers.
Colours we stock = Black
Plastazote is a soft orthotic covering material which is excellent for dispersion of pressure. It is lightweight and moulds to the shape of your foot. It is often used for diabetic and arthritic patients who suffer from pressure areas and bony deformities. It is also a great orthotic top cover choice for hypersensitive feet and feet with fat pad atrophy.
Colours we stock = Flesh (3mm & 6mm)
* Leather orthotic top covers are performed by our orthotic lab and as a result turnaround times are longer approximately 10-14 days.
What is the process for orthotic repairs?
To have your orthotics repaired by Melbourne Podiatrists & Orthotics please follow our repair process:
- Drop your orthotics into our Melbourne podiatry clinic for assessment and quote. You do not need to make an appointment. Please write down any special requests.
- A podiatrist will call you with a quote for the cost of repair and discuss any materials / covers or special requests with you.
- You will be advised or called when your orthotics are ready for collection.
Orthotic repairs are performed by our Melbourne podiatrists who are highly qualified and trained in all apsects of orthotic prescription and modification. In most instances and where possible the podiatrist who originally prescribed your orthotics will also do the repairs. All work is performed onsite meaning quicker turnaround times for the patient.
How long do orthotic repairs generally take?
Most repairs or recovers are carried out on a 2 – 5 day turnaround but it will ultimately depend on how busy the practice is. Rest assured our podiatrists will make every effort to get your orthotics repaired and back to you in the quickest time possible. Leather orthotic top covers are performed by our orthotic lab and as a result turnaround times are slightly longer, approximately 10-14 days.
Orthotic repairs FAQ
TIP: After the removal of covers you can use eucalyptus oil to help remove any remaining glue residue off the orthotic shell.
Wear and tear of orthotic covers will depend on an individuals biomechanics, their activities and the type of orthotic cover material. Certain foot types will breakdown some orthotic materials quicker than others. If you are finding that your covers are wearing quickly then please speak to one of our Melbourne podiatrists about a harder wearing option.
Another option to consider might be second pair of orthotics which will help prolong the life of your first pair. Please speak to our Melbourne podiatrists if you are interested in this option.
- You are experiencing symptoms
- You are finding your orthotics uncomfortable
- You feel as though your orthotics have lost support
- You have had your orthotics longer than 5 years
Orthotics looking tired?
If your custom orthotics are in need of repair then simply drop them in to our Melbourne podiatry clinic for assessment by one of our podiatrists. Remember if your orthotics have been made elsewhere or if they are older than 5 years then we recommend you make an appointment for further assessment.
For all your orthotic needs, advice, assessment, prescription and repairs book a consultation with one of our friendly podiatrists today.