Footwear Orthotics FAQs
Can footwear modifications be completed without seeing the patient?
For complex footwear modifications, in-clinic assessment is preferred. For repeat or less complex modifications, referrers may contact us to request a modification script and quotation.
Can you assist with EnableNSW and other funding applications?
Yes. We supply supporting documentation, reports and quotations to assist with EnableNSW Equipment Request Forms and other funding submissions.
How do I refer a patient for custom footwear?
Referrers are encouraged to provide a brief written report with relevant clinical information. No GP referral is required. Following assessment, we provide a detailed report, treatment plan and quotation.
What services do you provide for referrers?
We provide custom-made footwear, footwear modifications, custom orthotics, ankle-foot orthoses and bracing for patients with complex foot and lower limb conditions.
Do you work with funding bodies?
Yes. We work with funding bodies such as NDIS, EnableNSW, My Aged Care, DVA, Workers’ Compensation and private health funds where applicable.
Do I need a GP referral?
No GP referral is required to make an appointment. Referrals from medical and allied health professionals are welcome.
Are ankle-foot orthotics fitted with footwear?
Yes. Ankle-foot orthotics and braces are carefully fitted with footwear to maximise stability, safety and overall mobility.
Who benefits from ankle-foot orthotics?
Ankle-foot orthotics and bracing are often prescribed for people with neurological conditions such as stroke or cerebral palsy, trauma-related instability, post-surgical weakness or drop foot.
How are your orthotics made?
Orthotics are precision-crafted using CAD/CAM technology to ensure accurate fit, correction and long-term comfort. All orthotics are manufactured in a clinical setting.
What conditions do custom orthotics help with?
Custom orthotics are commonly prescribed for conditions such as diabetes-related foot issues, plantar fasciitis, tendinopathies including Achilles or tibialis posterior dysfunction, and gait or alignment problems.
Do I need to bring my own shoes for modification?
In many cases, yes. Your pedorthist will assess whether your footwear is suitable for modification or advise if alternative footwear is required.
What types of footwear modifications do you provide?
Footwear modifications may include rocker soles to reduce joint stress, heel raises to address leg length differences, limb length adjustments to improve balance, medial or lateral heel counter extensions for stability, and re-lasting footwear to achieve a more accurate fit.
Can you offload pressure for diabetic feet?
Yes. For high-risk diabetic clients, pressure offloading is precisely verified using in-shoe pressure mapping to help reduce ulcer risk and improve comfort.
Are custom shoes bulky or medical looking?
No. Our custom footwear is designed to balance function and appearance. We work with skilled upper makers to offer a wide range of styles, including supportive dress shoes and athletic footwear suitable for everyday wear.
Who needs custom-made footwear?
Custom-made footwear may be recommended for people with diabetic foot complications, arthritis, neurological conditions such as stroke or cerebral palsy, post-surgical or trauma-related foot issues, gait abnormalities, limb length differences, structural foot deformities or chronic tendinopathies.
Do you manufacture orthotics and footwear on-site?
Yes. Custom orthotics and footwear solutions are designed and manufactured on-site at our Erina facility using CAD/CAM technology, with over 30 years of clinical manufacturing experience.
What is the difference between a podiatrist and a pedorthist?
A podiatrist diagnoses and treats foot and lower limb conditions, including biomechanics and orthotic prescription. A certified pedorthist specialises in designing and manufacturing custom footwear, footwear modifications and bracing. At our Erina clinic, podiatrists and pedorthists work together to deliver integrated care.
What is pedorthic foot care?
Pedorthic foot care focuses on the assessment, design, manufacture and modification of footwear and orthotic devices to improve mobility, comfort and safety. At Coastal Orthotics & Pedorthics, this includes custom-made footwear, footwear modifications, orthotics and ankle-foot orthoses for complex foot and lower limb conditions.