You have been prescribed a footwear adaption by your Orthotist to help you with the issues you are having.
What is a footwear adaptation?
A footwear adaptation is a change to your own footwear. They are used to:
- improve your walking pattern
- realign some or all of the joints in your leg
- provide support to weakened or weakening joints
- prevent movement which impairs your walking
- reduce pain
- compensate for a short leg
- accommodate a socket for a calliper
What sort of shoes can be adapted?
Many different types of footwear are suitable for adaption. We ask that you look for a suitable footwear with:
- a supportive fastening, e.g. laces or Velcro
- a strong and firm upper material
- a wide heel
- a heel approximately 2.5 centimetres (1 inch) in height
- removable inlays
- a low opening
- a solid sole. Avoid styles with air bubbles.
Please ensure your footwear is comfortable and in good condition before bringing them in for adaptation.
Note: The Orthotic department will not adapt sandals, slip-on footwear, slippers or court shoes.
How many footwear adaptations can I have?
The NHS provide you with 3 footwear adaptions in your first year and 1 every year after this.
How long will it take to get used to wearing the adapted footwear?
You will need to take some time to get used to your adapted footwear. This list suggests the length of time you should try and wear them each day:
- Day 1: 30 minutes
- Day 2: 1 hour
- Day 3: 1 to 2 hours
- Day 4: 2 hours
- Day 5: 3 hours
- Day 6 or more: continue increasing the time you wear the adapted footwear by an hour each day until you can wear it all day until you go to bed.
How do I keep my adapted footwear in good condition?
It is your responsibility to look after your footwear.
- Please keep the uppers clean using appropriate products.
- Should your footwear become wet please do not dry them using an artificial heat source but pack them with paper and allow them to dry naturally.
- Your footwear adaptions are prescribed for your use only. Please do not allow other people to wear them.
How can I get my adapted footwear repaired?
It is your responsibility to bring your adapted footwear into the Orthotic department for repair when you need to.
Only the adapted shoe will be repaired.
We recommended that you regularly check the outer sole of your footwear for any signs of damage.
You do not need to pay a prescription charge for adapted footwear or repairs.
What happens if I have a problem?
If you need any help, please contact the Orthotic Department on 01709 424385.