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Custom orthotics

Custom orthotics

Custom-made foot orthotics designed from a scan or cast of your feet to address your specific biomechanical needs.

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About custom orthotics

Custom orthotics are prescription shoe inserts made from a detailed scan or cast of your feet. Unlike over-the-counter insoles that offer generic support, custom orthotics are designed specifically for your foot structure, arch type, gait pattern, and the condition being addressed. At Merivale Clinic, orthotics are prescribed only after a thorough biomechanical assessment that includes evaluating your feet, ankles, knees, hips, and how you walk. Common reasons patients are prescribed orthotics include plantar fasciitis, flat feet (pes planus), high arches, bunions, knee pain related to foot mechanics, shin splints, and recurring ankle instability. Orthotics work by redistributing pressure across the foot, correcting alignment issues, and reducing strain on muscles, tendons, and joints. They can be made for everyday shoes, athletic shoes, dress shoes, and work boots. The process from assessment to fitting typically takes two to three weeks, as the orthotics are manufactured by an external lab based on your scan or cast.

What to expect

  1. 1 A biomechanical assessment of your feet, ankles, gait, and posture
  2. 2 A foam cast impression or digital scan of your feet
  3. 3 A discussion of orthotic type, material, and shoe compatibility
  4. 4 Manufacturing by a certified lab (typically two to three weeks)
  5. 5 A fitting appointment to check comfort, alignment, and shoe fit
  6. 6 Guidance on a gradual break-in schedule and when to return for follow-up

Many extended health plans in Ontario cover custom orthotics when prescribed by a qualified practitioner. A prescription or letter of medical necessity may be required by your insurer. Coverage limits vary by plan and renewal cycle. We provide all documentation needed for insurance submission. Orthotics typically last two to five years depending on materials, activity level, and changes in your feet. Call the clinic to confirm current fees.

Common questions about custom orthotics

What are custom orthotics?
Custom orthotics are prescription shoe inserts made from a cast or scan of your feet. They are designed specifically for your foot structure, arch type, gait pattern, and condition. Unlike drugstore insoles, they address biomechanical issues identified during a clinical assessment.
How long do custom orthotics last?
Custom orthotics typically last two to five years depending on the materials used, your activity level, and changes in your feet over time. Your practitioner can assess whether your orthotics still provide proper support at follow-up visits and recommend replacement or refurbishment when needed.
Are custom orthotics covered by insurance in Ontario?
Many extended health plans cover custom orthotics when prescribed by a qualified practitioner. Most plans renew orthotic coverage every one to two years. A prescription or letter of medical necessity is usually required. We provide all necessary documentation for insurance submission. Check with your insurer for your specific coverage limits.
How long does it take to get used to custom orthotics?
Most people need a break-in period of one to two weeks, starting with a few hours per day and gradually increasing wear time. Some initial awareness or mild discomfort is normal as your feet adjust to proper support. If discomfort persists beyond two weeks, your practitioner can make adjustments.
What conditions do custom orthotics help with?
Custom orthotics are commonly prescribed for plantar fasciitis, flat feet, high arches, bunions, metatarsalgia, shin splints, knee pain related to foot mechanics, ankle instability, and gait abnormalities. They may also support recovery from lower-limb injuries by improving alignment and reducing strain.
Can I wear custom orthotics in any shoe?
Custom orthotics can be made for most shoe types including athletic shoes, casual shoes, dress shoes, and work boots. However, the orthotic design may differ depending on the shoe. Let your practitioner know which shoes you wear most so the orthotics are designed accordingly. Very flat or narrow shoes may not accommodate a full orthotic.

Explore other services

Chiropractic care Assessment and hands-on care for the spine, joints, nerves, and movement. Massage therapy Registered massage therapy for muscles, tension, and soft-tissue rehabilitation. Acupuncture Fine-needle technique for pain management, headaches, and complementary care. Shockwave therapy Non-invasive acoustic-wave treatment for chronic tendon conditions and soft-tissue pain. CoreScore assessment Non-invasive nervous-system scanning used as part of a chiropractic assessment.
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Dr. Leo Lachowich

Chiropractor · D.C.

Chiropractic care, Shockwave therapy, Custom orthotics, CoreScore assessment

"For years I suffered with headaches and was told that in many cases this is a temporary condition," explains Dr. Leo Lachowich. "I heard testimonials on the radio how Dr. Johnson, a chiropractor, helped people with headaches and so I decided to see a chiropractor.

"It was a miracle. I'll never forget that first adjustment. It was as if a huge weight was suddenly lifted from my shoulders. That's when I decided I wanted to be a chiropractor."

Dr. Leo Lachowich began his pre-chiropractic education at the University of Ottawa, where he studied the basic sciences such as inorganic chemistry, organic chemistry, and biology, along with basic physiology and anatomy courses.

After completing his studies there, he was accepted to Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in Toronto. During his four years at CMCC, courses included biochemistry, a major emphasis on anatomy and human physiology, x-ray, diagnosis, chiropractic adjusting techniques, and patient care in the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic Public Clinic. Dr. Lachowich returned to the Ottawa area to establish his practice after graduating in 1980.

"We love to see a patient's first experience," Dr. Lachowich said. "I still remember the wonderful feeling I had when I went to the chiropractor for the first time. It's my prerogative to create a wonderful experience for our patients. We explain everything in advance, answer questions and attempt to over-communicate. Patients appreciate that."

Dr. Leo Lachowich and his wife Maria have one child, Tatyana, who also graduated from the University of Ottawa and the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, and who now practices alongside her father.

Dr. Tatyana S. Lachowich

Chiropractor · D.C., B.Sc. (Hons)

Chiropractic care, Acupuncture, Shockwave therapy, Custom orthotics, CoreScore assessment

Dr. Tatyana S. Lachowich is a board-certified chiropractor in the province of Ontario with a special interest in working with families. She is a member of the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association, provides acupuncture, cupping, gua sha and orthotics as adjunctive therapies, and is a traditionally trained yoga teacher. Dr. Tatyana is the founder of Urban Panda Health and Wellness, a company created to help decrease chemical, physical and emotional stressors in the lives of families through health seminars, yoga classes and stress reduction workshops.

Dr. Tatyana S. Lachowich graduated Cum Laude from the University of Ottawa in 2005 with a Bachelor of Science Honours degree with a focus in Human Kinetics. She then went on to complete her Doctor of Chiropractic degree at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. Before graduating with her doctorate in 2009 she was awarded two clinical internships at Anishnawbe Health Center and South Riverdale Community Health Center in Toronto.

Dr. Tatyana S. Lachowich has a very personal reason for deciding to dedicate her life to helping families through chiropractic care. After a traumatic birth, she would not sleep, cried constantly and refused any source of nourishment. Like in many births, forceps and suction were used to help in the delivery process. This caused trauma to her neck and head. Desperate for a way to help Tatyana, her mother took her to a chiropractor. It was on this visit that tight muscles and a blocked cervical joint were located in her neck. It was after a chiropractic adjustment that she was able to latch and sleep through the night.

Dr. Tatyana S. Lachowich offers a wide range of treatment styles including Diversified, Koren Specific Technique, Thompson, cupping, muscle release therapy and instrument-assisted soft tissue treatment. She is also certified in Webster's technique, is licensed to perform acupuncture and can dispense custom-made orthotics.

As a two-time GTO award recipient, Dr. Tatyana S. Lachowich is passionate about giving back to the community. She is often asked to lecture at corporate and group wellness events and summits on topics including ergonomics, preventing injuries, proper motor development for children, peri- and postnatal wellness, and tips to improve overall health.

After spending many years teaching cycling and spinning to athletes as well as training as a competitive swimmer and Ironman, Dr. Tatyana S. Lachowich has taken a step back to focus on her practice and family. She spends her time hiking, biking and enjoying the great outdoors with her son, husband and dog.