January 19, 2023 · orthotics, Podiatry, Rehab

Custom Orthotic Instructions

Custom Orthotic Instructions - Here's info on how your orthotics are prescribed, designed, and manufactured and what to expect.

Custom Orthotic Instructions on the Gold Coast — this guide from Ace Health Centre walks you through what matters most: when to seek help, what treatment looks like, and what to expect from your recovery. Call (07) 5572 6222 to book.

Custom Orthotic Instructions on the Gold Coast — this guide from Ace Health Centre walks you through what matters most: when to seek help, what treatment looks like, and what to expect from your recovery. Call (07) 5572 6222 to book.

Custom Orthotic Guide

Welcome to Your New Custom Orthotics!

Thank you for choosing Ace Health Centre for your custom orthotics. This guide provides all the information you need about your orthotics—from their prescription and design to fitting and long-term care.

How Your Orthotics Are Prescribed

Your orthotics are tailored based on a comprehensive assessment, considering factors such as:

  • Your injury or condition
  • Foot flexibility, posture, and alignment
  • Weight, activity level, and footwear
  • Medical history (e.g., diabetes, circulation issues)
  • Muscle strength, balance, and nerve sensitivity
  • Previous injuries or foot concerns (e.g., corns, calluses)

Orthotic Design & Manufacturing

3D Scanning & Digital Design

After your assessment, your podiatrist takes a 3D scan of your feet to capture precise arch height, length, and width. Using CAD/CAM software, they design your orthotics for optimal support and comfort.

At Ace Health Centre, our podiatrists handle all design work in-house—unlike many clinics that outsource this step. (Fun fact: Our podiatrist, Mike, even designs orthotics for other clinics across Australia!)

3D Printing Process

Your orthotics are printed using an industrial HP MJF 4200 3D printer, which produces 30-50 sets at a time. The process involves:

  • Layering fine nylon powder (PA11, an eco-friendly material)
  • Fusing layers with heat (24-36 hours total print time)
  • Sandblasting and washing to remove excess powder

Hand-Finished Covers

Once printed, your podiatrist selects and applies the best top covers based on:

  • Your activity level & footwear
  • Weight, medical needs, and comfort preferences
  • Injury-specific requirements

Covers can be replaced later if needed, giving your orthotics a refresh.

Fitting Your Orthotics

Once ready, we’ll book a fitting appointment to:

  • Trim the orthotics (they’re intentionally made slightly oversized)
  • Ensure proper shoe fit and alignment

Shoe Tips for Best Results

  • Supportive, stable shoes work best—avoid soft/flat shoes if possible.
  • Fit check:
    • A finger’s width between your longest toe and shoe end
    • A slight pinch of fabric at the widest part of your foot
  • Shop for shoes in the evening (feet are naturally more swollen).
  • Rotate between two pairs (helps shoe foam recover, extending lifespan).
  • Replace shoes every 6-8 months (or 1.5 years max)—foam degrades over time.

What to Expect

  • Adjustment period (up to 4 weeks): Your muscles may need time to adapt. Mild discomfort is normal—if needed, switch back to original insoles and try again the next day.
  • If pain persists, book an early review.

Follow-Up & Maintenance

  • 3-4 Week Review: We’ll check comfort, function, and make adjustments if needed (free within the first 3 months).
  • Annual Check-Up: Feet and needs change over time—updates may be required.
  • Warranty:
    • 12 months on the orthotic shell (for breakage)
    • 6 months on top covers (excludes wear and tear)

Need Help?

For questions or adjustments, contact us here or book online.

Note:

  • 24-hour cancellation policy applies—missed/late cancellations incur a full fee.
  • No-shows at review appointments void warranty/return eligibility.

For full details, see ourrefund and returns  policy here.

We’re here to support your foot health every step of the way! ‍♂️

 

What to Expect From Custom Orthotic Instructions at Ace Health Centre

Patients who book Custom Orthotic Instructions with our team get a clinic-grade assessment, a clear plain-language plan, and a structured progression rather than a one-off appointment. Furthermore, we coordinate care across podiatry, physiotherapy, dietetics and exercise physiology where relevant, so you are not bouncing between clinics. Authoritative information on this topic is also available from Australian Podiatry Association if you would like to read further before booking. As a result, you walk in informed and walk out with a plan you understand.

For more on what we do, see our main service page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Orthotic Instructions

How long do custom orthotics last? Hard 3D-printed orthotics typically last 4-5 years; soft accommodative orthotics last 12-18 months for the top layer with a reusable shell.

Will I need to break them in? Yes — wear them 2 hours on day one and add 1-2 hours each day. Most patients are wearing them all day by the end of week one.

Are custom orthotics covered by private health? Most extras with podiatry cover offer a rebate on custom orthotics. We’ll check your level on the phone before you come in.

Book Your Custom Orthotic Instructions Appointment

Ready to get started? Call (07) 5572 6222 or book online. In addition, new patients can use our no-gap initial consult — straightforward, no surprises.

HICAPS on the spot with every major fund · Medicare CDM, DVA, NDIS & WorkCover accepted where applicable.
Medibank Bupa HCF NIB AHM Australian Unity Defence Health Police Health Navy Health TUH CUA St Lukes
Ready to act on what you read?

Book your Gold Coast assessment.

(07) 5572 6222