orthotics for the foot & ankle

prescription and custom footwear

Frequently Asked Questions

 1.  Does insurance pay for custom foot orthotics?    

Some do and some don't.  We are a contracted provider with Blue Cross Blue Shield so we will contact them for you and bill them directly.  But if you have other insurance you will have to call them to find out if orthotics are covered.  We use procedure code L3020  

 

 2.  Does Medicare pay for our services?

Medicare will pay for custom AFO ankle braces but they do not pay for custom foot orthotics.  One exception.  If you have diabetes then medicare will pay a small portion towards foot orthotics and one pair of shoes per year but we do not accept assignment.

 

 3.  How much do they cost?

Our price for a pair of custom made foot orthotics is $450 (2009 price).  This includes molds of both feet and computer pressure analysis.  It also includes any adjustments you may need during the first 2 months of wear.

 

 4.  How long do custom orthotics last?

This depends on the material.  And the material chosen depends on your unique needs.  Soft, accommodative orthotics may wear out in a year or two because they compress.  However, most of the orthotics we fabricate are made using a strong plastic base and the average life is about 5 years.    

 

 5.  What makes Central Dupage Orthotics unique?

Firstly, all patients are seen and evaluated and casted by Scott Torppey who has been in private practice since 1983.  At last count, he had made over 17,000 pairs of foot orthotics.  Secondly, all fabrication is done on the premises.  This  means you will get your product faster and we can make any adjustments or modifications on the spot.  We understand everything about foot orthotics from start to finish.

 

 6.  What kind of materials are used for custom orthotics?    

A variety of materials are used ranging from very soft to very hard depending on your specific needs.  We use foams that come in different densities as well as plastics in different strengths.  

 

 7.  Will custom orthotics help relieve pain in other parts of my body besides the feet?

Many patients report pain relief in the lower back as well as hips and knees due to improved foot alignment.  However, this is not the case with every patient.    

 

 8.  Do I have to buy bigger shoes and can I interchange my orthotics into different shoes?

Most people do not have to buy bigger shoes to wear orthotics.  And orthotics can be interchanged into different shoes.  They are not glued down.

 

 9.  Can orthotics be made for dress shoes?

Yes.  We make a very trim orthotic to fit inside ladies or men's dress shoes.  

  • custom fabrication done on premises
  • insurance claims submitted for patients
  • Blue Cross Blue Shield network provider
  • Medicare claims submitted for covered services
  • next day services available for custom orthotics