Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: What type of practitioner are you? What are your qualifications?

  • A: I am a Canadian Certified Pedorthist, and have been licensed since 2018. Before that, I achieved my Bachelor of Science (Double minor Kinesiology & Business) from Simon Fraser University in 2016.

  • Q: What is a Pedorthist?

  • A: A Canadian Certified Pedorthist specializes in assessing your lower limb biomechanics and function, and in the manufacture and provision of corrective and assistive devices including orthotics, footwear, and bracing. Members are accredited and regulated by national governing bodies. For more information, visit the Pedorthic Association of Canada or College of Pedorthists of Canada websites.

  • Q: What makes your business different from every other orthotic provider?

  • A: Pedorthic service providers spend extensive time training to assess lower limb biomechanics and in fabrication of orthotics. At Next Step Orthotics, we strive to take this beyond the average experience by providing thorough assessments and treatment plans, and by fabricating our orthotics in-house by your actual provider. When combined with modern 3D printing materials and methods, this gives us exceptional control over the process.

  • Q: What is the total cost of your orthotics?

  • A: The total cost of purchasing one pair of orthotics is $550. This includes $100 for a Biomechanical Examination, and $450 for one pair of custom orthotics. Additional pairs of orthotics ordered at the same time are discounted to $300. There are no further charges for the initial services, and any follow ups/adjustments are free of charge for custom orthotic clients for 6 months from the date of their fitting. Afterwards, a $60 appointment charge applies, and additional costs may be required for materials used (all to be quoted before any work is performed)

  • Q: Are the appointment and custom orthotics covered by my insurance or extended health plan?

  • A: Many extended health plans contain coverage for custom foot orthotics and other health services. You will need to check your plan documents or contact your plan administrator to confirm the amount and what is covered. Extended health claims will generally require a referral/prescription from your primary care practitioner or allied health practitioner with a valid medical diagnosis; and documentation from your orthotic provider with an Biomechanical Examination Report and details of the orthotic casting and fabrication methods and materials.

  • Q: Can you direct bill the orthotics to my insurer?

  • A: Generally, for extended health providers we are unable to direct bill the orthotics. Some government agencies allow for direct billing with written pre-authorization. If you are eligible through any of the following agencies, please contact us for more information or to start a claim:

    • WorksafeBC

    • ICBC

    • Ministry of Social Development/MSSH

    • Department of Veterans’ Affairs/VAC

    • RCMP

    • Canadian Armed Forces

    • First Nations Health Authority

  • Q: What if they don’t work/aren’t comfortable? What your Fit Guarantee?

  • A: While nobody can guarantee the success of their treatment plan, we will make sure the orthotics fit properly, comfortably, and are built to provide the function that we believe will help you. If this is not the case, we will adjust, remake, or potentially refund them to ensure you are satisfied with the product. This guarantee is valid for 6 months from your fitting date and includes 6 months of free adjustments if necessary.