Assessment

At Leeds Orthotics we communicate clearly and openly with our patients regarding the problems they are experiencing and moving forward, their options for treatment. We fully assess every individual that we treat to ensure the most effective orthotic intervention for each patient, tailored to their personal need.

All of our assessments, fittings and reviews are carried out by a qualified HCPC and BAPO registered orthotists.

Consultation

During your initial assessment, your orthotist will seek to understand your personal goals for treatment alongside the nature of any difficulties you are experiencing. They will ask questions about your daily life in order to help determine this and you may also be asked about any current devices you use. You will be asked for information regarding any relevant medical history and treatment and your orthotist will discuss your expectation for the outcomes of treatment.

Observation

Your orthotist will carry out a visual analysis. Sometimes this will consist of gait analysis, making observations about the way you move or carry out everyday tasks or just a simple visual inspection of the area in question. If you currently use an orthotic device then your orthotist will ask to see it, and may ask you to walk or move whilst using it.

Orthotists may take measurements at this point to help them to determine any causes for the pain or issues you have been experiencing and this is your opportunity to demonstrate and help them to understand anything that you need to discuss in more depth. For knee, ankle or foot related issues your orthotist may ask to look at your shoes or the way that you walk whilst wearing them, so where possible it is a good idea to come with typical footwear that you would regularly wear.

Physical assessment

Your orthotist may wish to palpate (touch) an area of your body to help determine the cause of any pain or discomfort, looking for any irregularities in your physiology and to check the range of movement in joints or strength of specific muscle groups. This can involve moving your body both independently and with assistance or resistance to movement.

Discussion

At the end of the assessment, your orthotist will spend time sharing their findings and thoughts with you. They will advise you of any problems they have identified and recommend ways to address them. We will take time to explore your options thoroughly and determine the appropriate intervention which allows you to meet your personal goals as best as possible.

Measurements

If a bespoke orthotic is determined to be the best treatment option for you, your orthotist will take measurements for a bespoke device. This may involve taking a cast using plaster bandage, a scan using a specialist device for computer aided design, an impression of your foot using a foam impression box or using specialist measuring tools.

To arrange an appointment call Leeds Orthotics now on 0330 088 3949, or email us at office@leedsorthotics.co.uk