The cost for custom orthotics is $400 which includes one pair of orthotics (one orthotic for each foot) as well as the dispensing appointment (when you return to the clinic to pick up your orthotics).  

There are no taxes on custom orthotics, nor on any other appointments.  

When a patient orders a second pair within 6 months of the first pair, the fee is $350.  

When a patient orders a third pair within 6 months of the first pair, the fee is $300.  

These promotional fees are per person only.  

When a patient orders a third pair within 6 months of the first pair, the fee is $300. 

These promotional fees are per person only. 

No.  

If you need custom orthotics, a comprehensive foot examination is first required so that we know how to specifically construct them for your unique feet.   

The fee for the comprehensive foot examination is $120. 

No.   

We are a private clinic, and our services are not covered under OHIP.  

However, our services and custom orthotics are covered by most extended health insurance plans. 

No. 

Dr. Horowitz is a primary healthcare practitioner. As such, no referral is required to book an initial examination. 

All new patients are required to book a comprehensive foot examination. 

As a regulated primary health care practitioner, Dr. Horowitz is required to conduct her own examination, to form a diagnosis and suggest a treatment program.

The only way to make orthotics customized for your feet and with the appropriate modifications and additions, is to have a thorough examination. 

Normally you will receive your custom orthotics within 7-10 days. However, it can take up to 14 days during the last few months of the year.

With time and use, custom orthotics wear down. You are likely to need new orthotics if:

• the material is wearing out, if they are falling apart or cracking or if the topcoat is slipping off from the shell
• you lost your old orthotics 
• your orthotics have been worn consistently and they are older than 3 years  old
• your original pain has returned 
• you have had a significant new foot/leg injury or knee or hip surgery
• your weight has changed significantly, you are/were pregnant and/or your feet grew
• you have taken up a new activity or exercise or would like to
• you were never comfortable wearing your old orthotics but still have foot pain and know you need custom orthotics
• you were told as a child that orthotics were medically necessary but have not had new orthotics or a foot re-examination in a number of years

Insurance companies recognize that orthotics wear out over time and need replacing. 

Yes.

Custom orthotics can be made for children as young as 6 years old. This is particularly helpful when there is a strong hereditary concern and there are other family members who wear custom orthotics.

Ask Dr. Horowitz about the children's outgrowth program that is available to reduce the costs of purchasing future orthotics.

Almost every insurance company covers the cost of our custom orthotics. You will have been given either a physical booklet or online access to your insurance policy. If not, ask someone who works in Human Resources. We suggest that you take the time to call the insurance company so you learn the details of your coverage, preferably prior to making your appointment. 

It is the patient's responsibility to learn the details of their coverage and requirements for reimbursement. 

Yes.

Dr. Horowitz is a registered Chiropractor and the examination and treatments are covered by most extended health insurance plans. 

We suggest that you look into your policy to determine how much coverage you have per year.

No. 

Unlike for examinations and treatments, insurance companies do not permit doctors to bill them directly for custom orthotics.

Patients are responsible for paying us directly for the cost of the orthotics they order and we provide you with a receipt as well as an insurance package that you will need to send in for reimbursement.

• Am I covered for Chiropractic care for the examination and any treatments that may be required? 
• Does my insurance cover custom orthotics? If so, how much per calendar year or when does the cycle start?
• Can the Chiropractic doctor write the prescription for custom orthotics or do I need one from my medical doctor? 
• Can the Chiropractor make and dispense the custom orthotics? 
• Do I need to submit a pre-determination letter for custom orthotics? 
• Am I covered for medical-grade compression hosiery and if so, will I need a medical doctor’s prescription? 

Almost every insurance company lists Chiropractors as permitted to make and dispense custom orthotics. If “Chiropractor” is not listed, then you would need a prescription from your medical doctor or if you do not have a medical doctor, obtain one from a walk-in clinic. 

We understand that you would like to be reimbursed as quickly as possible.

Most insurance companies will only reimburse you for orthotics if you submit the following 4 documents: 

1. A prescription that states the medical necessity for custom orthotics and lists the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis.
2. A receipt that shows that you paid for the orthotics in full.
3. Biomechanical Exam and Gait Scan Report. This is information gathered during your examination. It will include the dispending date (the date that you picked up your orthotics). 
4. A report that lists the 3-dimensional casting technique and the raw materials that were used in constructing your orthotics. This report is called Proof of Manufacturing and comes with the orthotics from the lab, only once the orthotics are made. As such, it cannot be obtained in advance. 

A few insurance companies like to see a Pre-Determination Report prior to agreeing to reimburse you. It lists the diagnosis, costs and treatment plan. You can let us know if you need this and it will be provided to you after the examination. 

No. 

The exam and treatments are billed under Chiropractic care (usually found under the category of paramedical services). Custom orthotics are found under its own separate category.

It depends on your insurance policy.

We will provide you with a prescription after your examination. If your policy does not specifically mention that a Doctor of Chiropractic can write the prescription, then you will need to obtain one from a medical doctor.

The quickest way to be reimbursed it by knowing the details of your plan ahead of your appointment. Obtaining a medical prescription, if needed, and having that in hand at your examination will speed up the process. 

While a prescription is not required on the day you order your orthotics, most insurance companies REQUIRE you to obtain the proper prescription BEFORE you pick up your orthotics. 

If you do not have a medical doctor, then visit a walk-in clinic. 

Book 2 appointments: a Comprehensive Foot Exam and a Custom Orthotics Appointment right after each other. Book your appointments by clicking the links below.  

https://toronto-orthotics.janeapp.com/#/discipline/1/treatment/1 

https://toronto-orthotics.janeapp.com/#/discipline/1/treatment/2 

You MUST complete and submit the Intake Form at the time you make your appointment.  Without the Intake Form completed, your appointment time will not be reserved and will be cancelled. 

We ask new patients to bring the shoes/sandals/boots that you would like your orthotics to fit into or those you wear most often. 

After your diagnosis and suggested treatment is discussed with you, the type(s) of orthotics you require will be decided. With your consent, a 3-Dimensional scan/cast of your feet will be taken and the order will be placed.

You will receive your orthotics within 7-14 days, depending on the time of year.

If your orthotics are less than 2 years old and you have not had any new injuries or changes in your feet, e.g. pregnancy*: 

1. We suggest you contact your extended insurance provider to determine the requirements for reimbursement. Ask if you can use the same prescription as before AND if they require you to have a re-evaluation.  
2. Email us at mytorontochiro@gmail.com and let us know what type of orthotics you would like to reorder and await confirmation and the fee.  
3. E-transfer the fee.
4. We will email you when the orthotics arrive after 7-14 days. Then, make a dispensing appointment (no charge) at https://toronto-orthotics.janeapp.com/
5. If you want to order orthotics for your sandals, make a dispensing appointment to drop them off. 

*If you have had a new injury, experience new pain, have not seen the doctor for more than 2 years or there have been significant changes in your weight, book a Re-evaluation Appointment AND a Custom Orthotic Appointment. 

Book 2 appointments: a Comprehensive Foot Exam and a Custom Orthotics Appointment right after each other. Book your appointments by clicking the links below.  

https://toronto-orthotics.janeapp.com/#/discipline/1/treatment/1 

https://toronto-orthotics.janeapp.com/#/discipline/1/treatment/2 

You MUST complete and submit the Intake Form at the time you make your appointment.  Without the Intake Form completed, your appointment time will not be reserved and will be cancelled. 

It is helpful to bring the shoes/sandals/boots that you would like your orthotics to fit into or that you wear most often. 

After your diagnosis and suggested treatment is discussed with you, the type(s) of orthotics you require will be decided.  With your consent, a 3-Dimensional scan/cast of your feet will be taken and the order will be placed.

We will email you when the orthotics arrive, which will be after 7-14 days. You can then make a dispensing appointment (no charge) to pick up your orthotics at  https://toronto-orthotics.janeapp.com/

During a half-hour examination, Dr. Horowitz will have time to examine EITHER your feet or your spine/leg pain.  

If your primary area of pain is in your feet or legs, then book a Comprehensive Foot Examination.

If your primary area of pain is in your spine,  book an Chiropractic Examination.

Insurance usually only reimburses patients for one examination per day. You can book a second examination for a different area of concern on another day. 

Book 2 appointments: a Comprehensive Foot Exam and a Custom Orthotics Appointment right after each other. Book your appointments by clicking the links below.  

https://toronto-orthotics.janeapp.com/#/discipline/1/treatment/1 

https://toronto-orthotics.janeapp.com/#/discipline/1/treatment/2 

You MUST complete and submit the Intake Form at the time you make your appointment.  Without the Intake Form completed, your appointment time will not be reserved and will be cancelled. 

We ask new patients to bring the shoes/sandals/boots that you would like your orthotics to fit into or those you wear most often. 

After your diagnosis and suggested treatment is discussed with you, the type(s) of orthotics you require will be decided. With your consent, a 3-Dimensional scan/cast of your feet will be taken and the order will be placed.

You will receive your orthotics within 7-14 days, depending on the time of year.

Yes. Book by clicking on the link below:

https://toronto-orthotics.janeapp.com/#/discipline/1/treatment/1

You MUST complete and submit the Intake Form at the time you make your appointment.  Without the Intake Form completed, your appointment time will not be reserved and will be cancelled. 

We recommend that you review the details of your insurance plan to determine your coverage for orthotics and compression socks, prior to attending the clinic. This will reduce the time it will take for you to be reimbursed by insurance. 

Bring the shoes/sandals/boots that you would like your orthotics to fit into or wear most often. 

Send any x-rays or other imaging reports or DVDs ahead of your appointment to mytorontochiro@gmail.com. 

Decide how much time you need with Dr. Horowitz, based on the treatment program that was discussed with you. 

If you need a 20-minute treatment, book either an Extended Foot Pain Treatment or an Extended Chiropractic Treatment ($75) 

If you need a 30-minute treatment, book either a Half-Hour Extended Foot/Leg or Half-Hour Chiropractic Treatment ($120).  

The following link will take you to our booking schedule: https://toronto-orthotics.janeapp.com/ 

If time permits and if Dr. Horowitz can offer a clear diagnosis and treatment plan without requiring a referral for specialized imaging, she tries to offer some relief after the examination. If you have a lot of information to provide or many questions, there may not be enough time to offer treatment.

Insurance usually only reimburses patients for one examination/treatment per day. 

It is our clinic policy that only patients themselves should book appointments. If you are concerned about a friend or family member, let them know about our clinic and have them make the appointment on their own.

The exceptions are:

• if you are a parent/guardian of a minor
• if a translator or a personal aid is required to help the patient complete and submit forms and/or for help when attending their appointment

Insurance companies generally require you to submit 4 separate forms to consider reimbursement for custom orthotics:

1. Prescription that lists the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis. 
2. Biomechanical Exam /Gait Scan Report that includes the exam findings and dispensing date (which proves that you picked up your orthotics). 
3. Proof of Full Payment for the orthotics (provided after payment is made when you order the orthotics)
4. Manufacturing Report that lists the casting technique (showing a 3-Dimensional scan was taken) and the raw materials that were used in the construction of the orthotics.

The manufacturing report comes with the orthotics from the lab, only once the orthotics are made and cannot be obtained in advance.

We provide the Insurance Package when you pick up your orthotics at the dispensing appointment.

To ensure that you are reimubrsed as quickly as possible, it is important to follow your insurance requirements.

If you need a Pre-determination letter for insurance pre-approval, let Dr. Horowitz know and it will be provided.

The Biomechanical Examination/Gait Report will NOT be signed until you pick up your orthotics.

Many insurance companies will not reimburse you without this signed form.

Many Ontarians do not have a medical doctor. If you know that you need custom orthotics and your insurance requires you to specifically have a medical prescription, then you can be examined by an attending doctor at any walk-in clinic that you are comfortable with and request a custom orthotics prescription.   Nearby Walk-In Clinics:

Watson Medical, Virtual Walk-in Clinic (416) 551-7606 

Bathurst Lawrence Walk-in Clinic (416) 782-7772 

Custom orthotics are made specifically for your unique foot structure, function and diagnosis, based on the biomechanical and neurological information the doctor gathers during your exam. The cast that the orthotics are made on are created from a 3-Dimensional Laser Envisic Scan taken of your feet. Custom orthotics include a Thermoplastic Shell (often made of Polypropylene) placed under a softer topcoat.  

Dr. Horowitz also uses the state-of-the-art 2-Dimensional GaitScan™ software by TOG, an innovative diagnostic pad that scans your feet in real time while you walk. These scans provide invaluable information about additions and modifications needed to be added to your custom orthotics.

Custom orthotics generally last for 2 or more years, depending on how often they are used and the activities they are used for.

Store-bought inserts come in only a few standard sizes with a fixed arch shape that may quickly deform once you stand on them. This may add cushioning and add some comfort. However, for people who have a medical need for custom orthotics, store-bought insoles are usually not enough.

Over-the-counter foot insoles tend to wear out after approximately 6 months. By the time a patient comes to our clinic for help, they may have spent hundreds of dollars in products that have not worked for them. 

Custom orthotics generally last from 1-3 years. They wear out more quickly in people who:

• are athletes and long-distance runners
• are overweight
• wear them every day and are very active on their feet
• do not handle them properly (such as immersing them in water)

The topcoat and modifications tend to wear out more quickly than the shell. 

With time and use, custom orthotics wear down. You are likely to need new orthotics when: 

• the material is wearing out, if they are falling apart or cracking or if the topcoat is slipping off from the shell 
• you lost your old orthotics  
• your orthotics have been worn consistently and they are older than 3 years old 
• your original pain has returned  
• you have had a significant new foot/leg injury or knee or hip surgery 
• your weight has changed significantly, you are/were pregnant and/or your feet grew 
• you have taken up a new activity or exercise or would like to 
• your old orthotics are no longer helping and you know you need new custom orthotics 
• you were told as a child that orthotics were medically necessary but have not had a foot re-examination in the past couple of years 

Insurance companies recognize this which is why they often cover one pair a year. 

If custom orthotics have been prescribed for you, most likely you will benefit from wearing them indefinitely.

Custom orthotics, like prescription eyewear, are medical devices. They are only prescribed and made when they are deemed to be medically necessary

This means that the more consistently you wear your orthotics, the greater the benefit you will receive from them. 

Orthotics are one part of a comprehensive treatment program.  When medically-required and used properly, they are an important piece of the puzzle in relieving pain.

Our custom orthotics come with a 3-month warranty. This means that if during the warranty period Dr. Horowitz finds it necessary to make an alteration or modification, they will be made at no cost to you. 

In general, it is not reasonable to expect doctors to make guarantees regarding the outcome of treatments and despite the financial investment involved, custom orthotics are no different.

The human body is complex and ever-changing. People differ in their general health, healing capacity, levels of stress and general health that may or may not be known at any given point in time. 

With over 25 years of experience in making custom orthotics for patients with a variety of conditions, you are in good hands with Dr. Horowitz.

What we do promise is that we will be honest with you, treat you with respect and are committed to doing everything we can to help you get better as quickly as possible.

Some factors that determine your success with custom orthotics include:

• wearing them in the proper, neutral shoes, based on the guidance you are given in your treatment program
• wearing them in shoes that are the right size/length for your feet
• removing the insole that came with your shoes originally
• making sure that the orthotics sit flatly into your shoes, without any wrinkles
• gradually increasing the time you wear the orthotics and not trying to run a marathon the first few days that you receive them
• not walking barefoot on hard surfaces
• your willingness or ability to wear your orthotics consistently 
• following up with other treatment recommendations consistently

No it is not.

When you first try on your custom orthotics, they should feel comfortable right away.

Since custom orthotics are designed to correct dysfunction and alignment problems in your feet/leg bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and even your spine, it makes sense that it will take your body some time to get used to these changes.

Mild aches in your foot and leg muscles may be experienced in some patients and are temporary. It can take up to 2 weeks for you to get used to them.

If you have been suffering from foot pain or conditions that include swelling and inflammation, orthotics will not take away all of your pain right away. You will still need to consistently follow through with other treatment recommendation in order to experience the quickest results.

Orthotics are important to wear for people who have a medical need for them, but they are only a piece of the puzzle in your recovery.

At your initial examination, Dr. Horowitz will look at the shoes you have brought into the clinic and will make recommendations to you about the best footwear for you, based on your foot anatomy, diagnosis and lifestyle.  Dr. Horowitz will explain the type of orthotic that will best fit into the types of shoes that you wear.  

Since shoes come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. In producing shoes, each company determines its own size and there is no consistent standard sizing that is used by every company. It is important to double check that you are wearing the correct size for each type of shoe that you wear.   

Some factors that determine your success with custom orthotics include:   

• wearing orthotics in neutral (flat-arched) shoes only. This is more easily viewed when the insole that comes with the shoes is removed
• removing the original insoles that came with your shoes, so that there will be enough depth to accomodate the orthotics 
• wearing them in shoes that are the right size/length for your feet and that are wide enough in the forefoot area 
• making sure that the orthotics sit flatly into your shoes, without any wrinkles  
• lacing up to the top eyelet so that your heel fits snugly in your shoes
• gradually increasing the time you wear your orthotics and not trying to run a marathon the first few days that you receive them  
• your willingness or ability to wear your orthotics consistently   
• bringing in the shoes you want your orthotics to fit into during the dispensing appointment, so that the orthotics can be trimmed properly to fit your shoes.   
• choosing the correct type of orthotics for the type of shoes that you wear  
• doing stretches for your feet and legs daily 

Custom orthotics cannot be worn in:  

• Flats that are very shallow  
• Crocs  
• Stability - type running shoes, that have a built-up inner arch area 

If you try to wear custom orthotics in stability-type shoes, not only will they not be comfortable, but they may very likely aggravate your condition and lead to pain elsewhere. 

Yes. 

Custom orthotic sandals are a great alternative to slippers, particularly for people who are working from home and walking on hard floors. 

Most Naots and many Finn Comfort and Mephisto sandals can be customized.

In general, Birkenstock sandals cannot be customized.  

If you already have sandals with a removable insole and would like them to be customized, then you can bring them with you to your initial appointment. 

If you would like resources for choosing sandals send us an email for a list of suggested stores and products. 

Certainly! 

It is a good idea to bring in the shoes you wear often. That way, Dr. Horowitz can offer guidance on what type of shoes are best for your feet and to make sure you are choosing the correct sizes. 

You can also email us to subscribe to our list of recommended running shoes and shoe stores. 

Please note, we do not sell shoes in the clinic.