Frequently Asked Questions about our Store.

Heres what you need to know.

What to bring and expect on your first visit:

When you visit Foot Pain Relief Store we usually schedule for a hour appointment, while we don't always use it, be prepared. An office co pay is not collected as we are not a physicians office so there's no need to pay up front for any of our services in most cases. We highly recommend bringing in shoes you would wear on a daily basis and any other shoe you would like for us to try to fit or consider for an orthotic. If you have insurance bring in that information as well. usually we can give you an idea of coverage during your visit. and of course the prescription from your doctor. For the average patient we usually break the visit down into 3 main steps:

1. Intake

We collect all your insurance and address information to help build a file along with the prescription from the physicians office. if you have workers compensation be sure you have all the correct claim and adjuster information handy. As we are subject to HIPAA regulation, rest assured we do not share your information with any marketers or creditors or anyone else not affiliated with your case.

2. Evaluation

This is the meat and potatoes of most of our visits. For most patients we will ask a few questions about your condition and some of your medical history related to your condition. We also will put you on the Matscan or I-step machine (based on location) to help show some of the pressure points on your foot. Usually at this point we evaluate your shoe size and examine any shoes you may have brought in to consider for your foot orthotics. if you have foot orthotics already we may look at them as well.

3. Casting and Scheduling.

the last step in your visit is taking the cast. we usually will use a foam impression system although plaster and fiberglass casting is available based on preference or doctors request. we cast the foot in a neutral position to help correct it.  as the bulk of the visit is over usually after casting we will schedule you back in to pick up your foot orthotics. this process can vary depending on what we are providing but usually we can turn most orders around in about a week. If we haven't already mentioned it, we will usually let you know what you will be up against financially when you come back for pick up.

What to bring and expect when you pick up

As with the first appointment we always schedule for an hour. we ask that you bring in your shoes to try on inserts (flip flops, slippers or pumps WILL NOT WORK, unless we designed for them). Any co-insurance amounts or copays will be due at this time and payment is expected in full unless prior arrangements have been made.

Usually we will try the inserts in your shoes and depending on how they feel we may adjust and trim them as necessary. there should be little discomfort and usually little or no break in period as they are molded to your foot.

 Frequently  Asked Questions

Do I need a prescription for custom foot orthotics?

Yes, this is a requirement based on Texas state law. many times patients have had them made through the podiatrist or orthopedic surgeon without one, usually as they are done within the doctors office they are exempt from this law. As we are not a physicians office we do require that you bring one in. This prescription can come from any MD, DO, Chiropractor or Podiatrist who is licensed and practices in Texas. Obtaining a prescription is the patients responsibility.

What types of shoes would you recommend for my foot orthotics? is there any one brand to consider?

Usually we recommend any shoe that has a removable insole or insert in the shoe. Often times this will give us the room we need without the need to go to a larger size shoe. Each shoe brand offers its own benefits and drawbacks so we usually tell people to go with what they feel comfortable with. keep an eye on size, as these shoes are manufactured to different standards that aren't necessarily universal, they may not run true to size or width. when you visit our store we usually will measure your foot and give you a recommendation on what to look for. if you have a question about a shoe, bring it in we'll examine it for you.

Does my insurance company pay for my foot orthotics?

Foot orthotics are subject to the provisions and exclusions in your particular healthcare policy. please check your coverage for details. we do participate with most major carriers. Check out our insurance section for more information.

Do you make hard plastic or soft foam foot orthotics?

Foot orthotics are fabricated differently based on need and function. We taylor-make each to the condition and situation the foot is in. Sometimes your doctor may ask us specifically for one type over another. We do keep many different materials on hand to ensure the best possible orthotic.

I think I may have a foot problem can you diagnose it?

As we are not doctors we cannot diagnose medical conditions. We usually recommend that you visit your primary care doctor for a proper referral and treatment.

Do I need a referral to visit your store?

No, unless you have an HMO or EPO plan with a prescription for foot orthotics, or any other custom services. for HMO plans you will need a referral from your primary care physician (PCP). as with any insurance plan, coverage may vary contact your insurance company for details on your particular plan.

Do I need a prescription to visit your store?

No, the only exception is for custom services. obtaining a script for orthotic services is the PATIENTS responsibility. your physician may need to see you before hand as well. contact your physician for questions or concerns.

Is your staff licensed or certified?

Yes, Our Pedorthic Staff is certified by the American Board For Orthotic Prosthetic and Pedorthic Certification (ABC) and are subject to continuing education requirements to maintain certification.

Do you make adjustments or am I just stuck with my foot orthotics after picking them up?

We do adjust and work on all foot orthotics we make. depending on their age you may pay a materials fee.

How long will my new foot orthotics last?

This depends on the material and lifestyle. most soft pads will last anywhere from 2-3 years although longer or shorter lifespans aren't uncommon. Most plastic, leather and cork foot orthotics will last significantly longer.

Do you take Medicare?

Yes, both of our locations accept assignment for Medicare Part B

Do you ship your foot orthotics to a lab? if so which one?

All our custom foot orthotics are made in house, assuring that you are more then just a box and number in some distant lab. when you speak to our C.Ped staff you are speaking to the people who are directly responsible for your inserts.

Do you make housecalls?

Housecalls are made on a very limited case by case basis. please call us for details. services and area coverage is limited.

Your question not listed? call us. we look forward to hearing from you!

(512) 374-0818 in Austin, or (210)-655-3668 in San Antonio