Orthotics - Footwear

Introduction

This leaflet is for people who have been provided with footwear by the Orthotics service. It will explain how to care for the footwear and other important information about the Orthotics service.

We hope you find this information useful.

If you require further information or you are unable to attend an appointment, please telephone the Orthotics department where the appointment has been made as soon as possible:

Bury, Rochdale or Oldham: 0161 778 2670
Email: nca.orthotics@nca.nhs.uk

Salford: 0161 206 4912
Email: salford.orthotics@nca.nhs.uk

For further information about our service, please visit:

www.northerncarealliance.nhs.uk/our-services/orthotics

Our sites are open for collection and dropping off devices:

Bury: Tuesdays only
Rochdale: Thursdays only
Oldham: Mondays only
Salford: Monday - Friday

What does the footwear do?

The footwear you have been supplied with has been prescribed by the Orthotist for your specific foot condition. It is designed to maximise comfort, control and support. If you notice any changes in your foot or medical condition or if you feel that the footwear provides inadequate control you must let the Orthotics department know immediately.

What is my entitlement?

You are entitled to two pairs of footwear. However if your feet are still growing and likely to change shape we will only issue one pair at a time. Following initial supply of your first pair of footwear, you will be provided with a follow up appointment, at which point if the footwear is satisfactory, then a further pair will be ordered. We will only provide repeat pairs of footwear while you have a clinical need.

We will ensure that you have two pairs of wearable footwear*. These will only be replaced when they are beyond repair or if your clinical condition changes and the footwear cannot be altered to accommodate these changes.

We do not provide sandals or slippers as these do not meet clinical requirements.

* Wearable footwear is defined as fit for purpose and part of this includes prompt and necessary repair. Failure to ensure that footwear is maintained correctly may result in a charge being levied on replacement footwear when such replacement is due to incorrect maintenance.

Repair of footwear

When the footwear needs repairing please bring it to the Orthotics department and providing the footwear has been looked after we will repair it. Please note for Health and Safety reasons footwear will only be accepted for repair if it is in a clean, dry condition.

Theft, loss or damage to your footwear

If your footwear is stolen you will need to obtain a crime number from the police before we are able to order a replacement.

If the footwear is lost or damaged (either accidentally or maliciously) you will be asked to pay for its replacement. The average cost of replacement of stock footwear is £350. Made to measure footwear is £600 for shoes and £800 for boots.

How should I wear my shoes?

• Take time to get used to the footwear, as per the Orthotist’s instructions
• Wash your feet daily and ensure you wear the footwear with clean socks
• Ensure the footwear are fastened securely
• Have the footwear repaired when necessary
• Always check inside your footwear before putting it on to ensure that nothing has fallen inside

How should I care for my footwear?

• Clean your footwear regularly with shoe polish for leather and a brush for suede or nubuck
• Allow to dry naturally, away from direct heat sources such as the radiator
• Look after your footwear and return it for repair when necessary
• Ensure you wear the footwear with the insoles it was supplied with

What problems should I be aware of?

If you notice any of the following, please contact the Orthotics department as soon as possible:

• Skin redness that doesn’t fade after 15 minutes
• Sores or blisters on the skin
• Pain, irritation or rubbing
• Any damage to the footwear

Further appointments

Following the supply of your first pair of footwear you will be sent an appointment to see the Orthotist for a review appointment.

However, if you feel your condition has not improved, has worsened or you are experiencing problems with the footwear you can ask to see the Orthotist before your planned review by telephoning the Orthotics department where you had your original appointment.