When you need specialized orthotic care in Fletcher, North Carolina, Orthopedic Appliance Company offers the highest quality custom orthopedic bracing and support services available. Since 1960, we've been serving Western North Carolina with expert orthotic solutions designed to improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance quality of life for patients of all ages.
Our Fletcher location provides convenient access to our full range of orthotic services, backed by decades of experience and a commitment to personalized care. Whether you're dealing with chronic foot pain, recovering from an injury, or managing a long-term condition, our team of certified specialists is dedicated to finding the right orthotic solution for your unique needs.
Our Orthotic Services in Fletcher
At our Fletcher location, we offer comprehensive orthotic services tailored to address a wide range of conditions and mobility challenges.
Custom Orthotics
Our custom orthotics are designed to provide precise support and correction for your specific needs:
- Custom Rigid Functional Orthotics: Provides complete control of motion in the foot joints directly below the ankle, ideal for patients needing maximum support and stability.
- Custom Semi-Rigid Functional Orthotics: Offers controlled flexibility with a blend of supportive and accommodative materials, perfect for daily activities and moderate athletic use.
- Custom Accommodative Orthoses: Designed to cushion and protect the foot while relieving pressure points, particularly beneficial for diabetic patients or those with arthritis.
Each custom orthotic is precisely crafted based on detailed measurements and impressions of your feet, ensuring optimal fit and function for your specific condition.
Pediatric Orthotics
Children with developmental or congenital conditions benefit from our specialized pediatric orthotic services:
- Growth-accommodating designs: Our pediatric orthotics are designed to adjust to your child's growth while providing necessary support and correction.
- Pediatric AFOs (Ankle Foot Orthoses): Help correct alignment and improve stability for children with various neuromuscular conditions.
- SMOs (Supramalleolar Orthoses): Provide moderate support for children with low muscle tone or mild instability.
- Pediatric knee braces: Support proper alignment and stability for young athletes or children with knee joint issues.
Our pediatric specialists understand the unique challenges of fitting and maintaining orthotics for growing children and work closely with parents to ensure optimal outcomes. Read our article, Guide to Pediatric Orthoses Devices, for more information.
Adult Orthotics
Our comprehensive adult orthotic services address a wide spectrum of needs:
- Lower extremity orthotics: Including custom foot orthoses, ankle-foot orthoses (AFOs), knee-ankle-foot orthoses (KAFOs), and hip-knee-ankle-foot orthoses (HKAFOs).
- Upper extremity orthotics: Ranging from hand and wrist supports to elbow and shoulder bracing solutions.
- Spinal orthotics: Including cervical collars, thoracolumbosacral orthoses (TLSOs), and lumbosacral orthoses (LSOs).
- Post-surgical bracing: Specialized orthotic solutions to support recovery and rehabilitation after surgical procedures.
Sports Orthotics
For athletes and active individuals, we offer specialized sports orthotics designed to enhance performance and prevent injury:
- Custom sports insoles: Designed to improve biomechanics during specific athletic activities.
- Functional knee braces: Providing stability and support during sports and high-impact activities.
- Ankle stabilizers: Offering protection and support for those with previous ankle injuries or instability.
- Performance enhancement orthotics: Designed to optimize alignment and energy transfer during athletic activities.
Conditions We Treat
Our Fletcher location specializes in orthotic solutions for a wide range of conditions affecting mobility and function.
Foot Conditions
- Plantar fasciitis: Custom orthotic inserts to reduce heel pain and support the arch.
- Flat feet (pes planus): Supportive orthotics to create an artificial arch and distribute pressure evenly.
- High arches (pes cavus): Shock-absorbing orthotics to compensate for rigid foot structure.
- Bunions and hammertoes: Accommodative orthotics to relieve pressure and slow progression.
- Diabetic foot concerns: Protective orthotics to prevent ulceration and distribute pressure.
- Metatarsalgia: Orthotics with metatarsal pads to relieve forefoot pain.
Ankle Issues
- Chronic ankle instability: Supportive ankle braces to prevent recurrent sprains.
- Ankle arthritis: Bracing to limit painful motion while maintaining function.
- Achilles tendonitis: Heel lifts and supportive bracing to reduce strain on the tendon.
- Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction: Custom AFOs to support the arch and stabilize the ankle.
- Drop foot: AFOs designed to lift the foot during walking for improved safety and gait.
Knee Problems
- Osteoarthritis: Unloader braces to reduce pressure on affected compartments of the knee.
- Ligament injuries: Supportive braces for ACL, MCL, PCL, or LCL injuries.
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome: Braces with patellar stabilization features.
- Post-surgical support: Rehabilitation braces with adjustable range of motion settings.
- Knee instability: Functional braces to provide stability during daily activities.
Back and Spine Support
- Scoliosis: Custom-molded TLSO braces to accommodate spinal curvature.
- Lower back pain: LSO braces to limit motion and provide abdominal support.
- Spinal stenosis: Bracing to promote proper posture and reduce symptoms.
- Post-surgical spinal support: Custom bracing to support healing and limit harmful movements.
- Compression fractures: Hyperextension braces to reduce flexion of the spine.
Our Fletcher Orthotic Team
The quality of your orthotic care depends largely on the expertise of the professionals providing it. At our Fletcher location, you'll be served by a team of certified specialists with extensive experience in orthotic solutions.
Certified Specialists
Our team includes:
- Board Certified Orthotists (BOCO): Specialists who have completed rigorous education and clinical requirements established by the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics.
- Certified Pedorthists (C-Ped): Professionals specialized in the design, manufacture, modification, and fit of footwear to alleviate foot problems.
- Trained Orthotic Technicians: Skilled craftspeople who fabricate and adjust orthotic devices to precise specifications.
Our Fletcher team stays current with the latest advancements in orthotic technology and treatment approaches through ongoing education and professional development.
Experience and Qualifications
The Orthopedic Appliance Company team brings decades of combined experience to every patient interaction:
- All practitioners maintain current certification with the American Board for Certification in Orthotics, Prosthetics & Pedorthics.
- Our facility is fully accredited, meeting rigorous standards for quality care and fabrication.
- Our specialists have experience working with patients of all ages and with diverse medical conditions.
- We maintain close working relationships with referring physicians to ensure coordinated care.
Personalized Approach
We believe that effective orthotic care requires a personalized approach:
- Each patient receives a comprehensive evaluation to understand their unique needs and goals.
- We take the time to listen to your concerns and answer your questions.
- Treatment plans are developed collaboratively with you and your healthcare team.
- Follow-up care ensures your orthotic device continues to function optimally as your needs change.
The Orthotic Fitting Process
Understanding what to expect during the orthotic fitting process can help you feel more comfortable and prepared for your visit to our Fletcher location.
Initial Consultation
Your orthotic journey begins with a thorough initial consultation:
- Review of your medical history and any previous orthotic experiences
- Discussion of your symptoms, limitations, and treatment goals
- Physical examination focusing on the affected area
- Assessment of your gait, range of motion, and functional capabilities
- Review of any relevant imaging or medical reports
This comprehensive evaluation allows our specialists to determine the most appropriate orthotic solution for your specific needs.
Custom Measurements
For custom orthotic devices, precise measurements are essential:
- Traditional casting methods using plaster or fiberglass
- Foam impression systems for foot orthotics
- Digital scanning technology for highly accurate 3D representations
- Detailed measurements of specific anatomical landmarks
- Assessment of weight-bearing vs. non-weight-bearing positioning
These measurements provide the foundation for creating an orthotic device that fits perfectly and functions optimally.
Fabrication Process
Once measurements are complete, our skilled technicians begin the fabrication process:
- Creation of a positive model based on your measurements
- Selection of appropriate materials based on your needs and activities
- Thermoforming of plastic components for custom-molded devices
- Precision alignment of components according to biomechanical principles
- Assembly and finishing with careful attention to detail
Our on-site fabrication capabilities at Orthopedic Appliance Company allow for faster delivery and easier adjustments than facilities that outsource this crucial step.
Fitting and Adjustments
When your orthotic device is ready, you'll return for a fitting appointment:
- Careful application of the device
- Assessment of fit, comfort, and function
- Minor adjustments as needed for optimal performance
- Instruction on proper donning and doffing techniques
- Education on break-in schedule and wearing guidelines
Follow-up appointments allow us to make further refinements as you begin using your orthotic device in daily activities.
Insurance and Payment Information
Navigating insurance coverage for orthotic devices can be challenging. Our Fletcher team is experienced in working with various insurance providers to maximize your benefits.
Accepted Insurance Providers
At our Fletcher location, we work with most major insurance plans:
- Medicare
- Medicaid
- Blue Cross Blue Shield
- Humana
- Aetna
- Veterans Administration
- And many other private insurers
Our insurance specialists can verify your coverage before treatment begins and explain any potential out-of-pocket expenses.
Medicare/Medicaid Coverage
For patients with Medicare or Medicaid:
- We are an approved provider for both programs
- We understand the specific documentation requirements
- Our team can help determine if your orthotic device meets medical necessity criteria
- We can explain any applicable deductibles or co-payments
A physician's prescription is required for all insurance claims, including Medicare and Medicaid.
Payment Options
We strive to make orthotic care accessible to all patients:
- Flexible payment plans for out-of-pocket expenses
- Assistance with insurance appeals when appropriate
- Transparent pricing and cost estimates before treatment
- Various payment methods accepted, including major credit cards
Our patient coordinators are available to discuss financial concerns and help find solutions that work for your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Orthotics
How long will my custom orthotics last?
The lifespan of custom orthotics varies depending on materials, usage patterns, and individual factors. Typically, rigid and semi-rigid orthotics last 2-3 years with proper care, while soft accommodative orthotics may need replacement after 1-2 years. Regular check-ups allow us to assess wear and make recommendations for replacement or refurbishment.
Will I need to wear my orthotics all the time?
Wearing schedules depend on your specific condition and treatment goals. Some patients require their orthotics during all weight-bearing activities, while others may use them primarily during certain activities like exercise or prolonged standing. Your orthotist will provide specific recommendations based on your individual needs.
Can I transfer my orthotics between different shoes?
Some orthotic designs can be transferred between similar types of footwear, while others are designed for use in specific shoes. Full-length orthotics generally transfer more easily than partial inserts. During your fitting, we can discuss your footwear needs and design your orthotics accordingly.
How long does it take to adjust to new orthotics?
Most patients require a break-in period of 1-2 weeks for foot orthotics and up to a month for larger bracing systems. We typically recommend gradually increasing wearing time and following a specific break-in schedule to allow your body to adjust comfortably to the new alignment and support.
Are pediatric orthotics adjusted as my child grows?
Yes, pediatric orthotics often require more frequent adjustments to accommodate growth. Depending on your child's age and growth rate, we typically schedule follow-up appointments every 3-6 months to assess fit and function. Some designs include growth panels that can be adjusted without requiring completely new devices.
How do I know if my insurance will cover my orthotic device?
Our insurance specialists can verify your coverage before treatment begins. Coverage depends on your specific policy, the type of orthotic prescribed, and medical necessity documentation. We work closely with referring physicians to ensure proper documentation to support insurance claims.
Contact Our Fletcher Location
Our Fletcher office is conveniently located to serve patients throughout Henderson County and surrounding areas:
Orthopedic Appliance Company - Fletcher
235 St. Johns Road
Fletcher, NC 28732
(828) 483-5781
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Lunch: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Closed Saturday and Sunday
To schedule an appointment with our orthotic specialists in Fletcher, please contact us or call our office directly. A physician's referral is typically required for insurance coverage but not necessary for an initial consultation.
Our Fletcher location offers convenient parking and wheelchair accessibility. We look forward to helping you achieve improved mobility and comfort through our expert orthotic services.