FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between an Orthotist, Podiatrist and Physiotherapist?

The main distinction between Orthotists and other professions is the use of orthotic devices to manage injuries and conditions.

Where a Physiotherapist would prescribe exercises and stretches to treat an injury, an Orthotist would provide an orthosis to help manage the condition. E.g. for a wrist fracture, you would see an Orthotist initially to be fitted for a cast or wrist splint, then you would see a physiotherapist to be provided with exercises and stretches to regain function and strength.

Where a Podiatrist focuses on the overall health of the foot including treatment of corns, ingrown toenails and fungal infections, an Orthotist focuses on the biomechanical structure of the foot and correcting alignment and function through the use of foot or ankle orthoses.

Orthotists work in conjunction with many allied health professionals, so it is very common to see multiple health professionals to treat a particular condition.

What is an Orthosis?

An Orthosis is the technical term for any kind of external medical device fitted to the body. This can be anything from foot orthotics that go in your shoes to correct the alignment of your feet, to a cast fitted for a fractured bone.

Orthoses have many different function and goals and can either be pre-fabricated and customised to fit the client, or completely custom made depending on the needs of the individual.

Is there parking available?

Yes. We have 2 hour un-metered parking at the front of the clinic on Gheringhap St as well as free parking at the rear of the clinic accessible via Myers St and Wellwood Terrace.

Do you have disabled access?

Yes. We have disabled access at the rear of the clinic, accessible via the private car-park or by going around to the rear of the building from the street. There are visable signs on the building, alternatively one of our staff will be more than happy to help.

Do I need a referral?

No. You can make an appointment and receive treatment without a referral, however if you intend to claim the costs through your private health insurance you may require a referral. We encourage you to contact your health insurance company to ascertain if a referral is required. You do not need a referral if you are funded by Transport Accident Commission (TAC), Worksafe, National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) or State Wide Equipment Program (SWEP). You do require a referral if you are funded through the Department of Veteran’s Affairs (DVA).

Do I need to book an appointment?

Although we do accept drop in appointments without a booking, we cannot confirm that someone will be available to see you straight away.

The best way to confirm an appointment is to call our clinic on (03) 5222 8884 or to submit an online referral and one of our staff will contact you to arrange an appointment

How much is an appointment and what does it include?

A standard consultation costs $85. This is up to a 45-minute appointment with our Orthotist and involves a complete physical examination, muscular strength and range of motion testing, education and fitting of any devices you may need.

Are your services claimable under private health insurance?

Orthotic treatment and devices come under orthopaedic goods and services or medical/health aids and appliances on the ancillary extras portion of your health insurance policy. It is your responsibility to see if you are covered or to bring a copy of your policy to the appointment so we can assist in whichever way possible.

Some of our services may be covered by your private health fund. We will provide you with the necessary receipts after payment for you to submit a claim to your Health Fund.

How long do Foot Orthoses last?

Our Orthoses are made from high quality materials and generally last 3-4 years for a person of average height and weight. If you are highly active, the timeframe may be shorter and vice versa if you are not as active.

Can I hire my Orthosis?

According to the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) it is not legal to re-sell or hire out Orthoses that come in contact with the skin. This is to maintain high standards of hygiene and prevent the spread of viral or bacterial infection. This is in line with the same standards under all medical equipment.

Do we offer our services external to our registered clinic address?

Yes. We offer in-patient services to both St John of God Hospital Geelong and Epworth Private Hospital Geelong. These are attainable by having a specialist write a referral to our clinic and we will organise a time to visit you in hospital.

We also offer external services to aged care residences and private residences upon request.

How long will it take to make my Orthoses?

At Orthotic Motion we are fully equipped with a manufacturing workshop at our clinic and almost all of our technical work is completed on site. This means we have an incredibly quick turnaround for custom made Orthoses and can generally manufacture your devices in under a week.

How much do custom made foot Orthoses cost?

Due to the complexity and highly customised nature of foot orthoses, costs vary. The most commonly prescribed foot orthoses at Orthotic Motion cost $595 per pair. The exact cost is determined by your needs and can be discussed with your Orthotist before proceeding. The fee for your foot orthoses includes a fitting appointment as well as a review appointment to carry out any fine adjustments that need to be made.

What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology is any device or system that allows individuals to perform tasks they would otherwise be unable to do or which is able to increase the ease and safety with which tasks can be performed. For example a foot orthotic is an Assistive Technology device.

Covid 19

As we are considered an essential service, we are able to continue to be available for all our clients with any injury or urgent matter. All of our staff are trained and abide by the COVIDsafe guidelines set by the DHHS. This includes:

• Social distancing protocols within the clinic
• Attendance registering of all entrants to the clinic
• The availability of hand sanitiser at the door for all entrants to the clinic
• Contactless payment methods
• Tier 1 PPE protocols in place
• Wiping down of all touch points in consulting rooms between patients
• A robust COVIDsafe plan