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Questions about Orthaheel products and orthotics

What exactly is a foot 'orthotic'?

A foot 'orthotic' is a device designed to restore your natural foot function. Many 'biomechanical' complaints such as heel pain, knee pain and low back pain are caused by poor foot function. (Biomechanics, the science of movement, studies the body's movements during walking, running and sports). Orthotics help to realign the foot and ankle bones to their neutral position, thereby allowing you to reclaim your natural footprint. In turn, this can help alleviate problems in other parts of the body.

In addition, orthotics give a more even weight distribution, take pressure off sore spots (e.g., the ball of the foot, corns in between toes, bunions, etc.) and they provide some shock absorption.

What is the difference between a footbed or insole and a foot orthotic?

Regular footbeds are designed to provide a cushioning effect and absorb shock. They may feel comfortable at first, but they do not address the biomechanical cause of 'excess pronation.' Orthotics provide some degree of shock absorption, but more importantly they are functional and are designed to help you reclaim your natural footprint. Some footbeds also feature an arch support; however, quality orthotics such as Orthaheel do a lot more than just support the arches.

What are orthotics made of and how long will they last?

Traditional orthotics are made from rigid materials, such as hard plastic or even metal. Although they provide correct alignment, they are very hard to get accustomed to and limit the foot's natural suspension mechanism. Having something rigid under the foot means that with every step the impact is not being absorbed properly and a shockwave travels from the foot all the way up the spine.

Orthaheel orthotics and sandals are made of a flexible material called EVA (ethyl vinyl acetate). The key advantage of EVA is that it is supportive and 'giving' at the same time! As you apply weight to the foot, there is a certain amount of 'give' in Orthaheel orthotics and sandals, providing shock absorption to the feet, ankles, knees, hips and back. This makes the device much more comfortable and more natural compared to hard orthotics. Yet, at the same time, they are firm enough to realign the foot and allow you to claim back your natural footprint.

Because Orthaheel orthotics and sandals are somewhat flexible, they will need to be replaced every 12-18 months. Older people or those with sensitive feet will benefit from a softer type of orthotic such as Orthaheel, as they may have difficulty tolerating anything hard under the foot.

Who can benefit from wearing orthotics and why?

Any person with a foot problem can benefit from wearing orthotics. It is estimated that over 70% of the population suffer from rolling inwards of the foot and fallen arches ('excess pronation'), which is the major contributing factor to foot problems. As we get older this problem often worsens.

People most likely to suffer excess pronation-related conditions are:

• Those over 50: As we get older, the muscles and ligaments in the foot become weaker, as do the bones due to calcium reduction. In addition, the fatty padding under the foot thins out, which means less protection and cushioning for the bones, in particular the heel bone. Fallen arches combined with thinning fat tissue are a recipe for foot problems. Heel Spurs are the most common foot complaints for those over 50.
• People who are on their feet all day: Factory workers, nurses, teachers, people in retail and many other industries are required to stand on their feet for hours each day. Hard, unforgiving surfaces like concrete and asphalt take their toll after prolonged standing even for young and healthy people! Most common complaints are tired, aching feet and legs as well as low back pain. Women who are required to wear dress shoes with heels (e.g., in retail or hospitality) often suffer from pain under the ball of foot (Metatarsalgia) and/or aching legs.
• Runners & athletes: Because athletes put so much strain on their muscles and bones and ground reaction forces are much higher (up to 4 times the body weight), biomechanical injuries are more rule than exception. Orthotics play a major role in preventing sports injuries such as Achilles Tendonitis, shin splints and problems in and around the knee joint. Plus, running pain-free enables any athlete to perform better!
• High-heel wearers: Most women know that high heels are not good for their feet, however many women do wear them. Common symptoms occurring from wearing high heels are pain in the back of the legs (and shortening of the calf muscles over the long term!), ball of foot pain, pain under the arch and the heel. Orthaheel Slimfit orthotics are specifically designed to reduce discomfort associated by heeled shoes and sandals.
• Pregnant / overweight people: Excess weight worsens the effects of excess pronation and its related pains. Proper alignment and support are crucial for those carrying additional weight, which creates additional forces on the feet, ankles, knees and back.

What pains and ailments can be aided by orthotics?

Most foot conditions respond favorably to orthotic treatment. Foot orthotics are found to be very effective for foot complaints such as bunions, calluses & corns, heel pain, Achilles tendonitis, Morton's Neuroma and ball of foot pain. Because the feet are the foundation of our body, orthotics can also provide natural, lasting relief for back pain, knee pain and shin pain. The sandals are especially good to keep beside the bed and slip on before you stand up each day. This can relieve morning heel pain or "plantar fasciitis."

What can I use Orthaheel shoes and sandals for?

Orthaheel shoes, slippers and sandals are a great complement to your orthotic treatment when you are not wearing your orthotics in regular shoes. The slippers and sandals are an ideal solution to wear around the home and keep beside the bed, so you can slip them on before you stand up each morning. This can relieve morning heel pain or "plantar fasciitis." Orthaheel sandals can also be worn any time you would wear other sandals or flip flops, and they will provide much better support and alignment than regular flat sandals.

How is Orthaheel different from other brands?

• Orthaheel is the only product recommended by America’s doctor, Andrew Weil, MD. He sees its success in relieving pain naturally.
• Orthaheel orthotics, Walker athletic shoes and the Wave, Tide and Ryder sandals are endorsed by the APMA (American Podiatric Medical Association)
• Orthaheel’s Complete System offers versatility, which means you can have orthotic comfort in your favorite shoes.
• Only Orthaheel has its unique orthotic built right in to a sandal. Orthotic relief without the orthopedic look!

How do I know which orthotic style to choose?

Orthaheel orthotics are available in a range of styles and sizes to suit most styles of footwear. The biomechanical correction in Orthaheel orthotics (except Slimfit) is the same so you should get the same benefits from all the styles - simply choose the one that will best fit your shoes and lifestyle. A few additional tips:

• If the insole can be removed from your shoes choose a full-length product; if not, choose a _-length product.
• For high-heel shoes or more fitted dress shoes, choose the Slimfit style.

What exactly is a 'custom orthotic' and who will need these?

Some people have more serious biomechanical disorders than the common degree of excess pronation that most of us suffer from. These people should seek advice from a health professional. After initial diagnosis the health professional may suggest a 'customized prescription orthotic.'

Do custom orthotics fit in all my footwear?

No, they don't. Custom-made devices can be large, rigid and bulky and are restricted to certain types of footwear; or worse, they require larger shoes to accommodate the orthotic. Orthaheel Orthotics, however, come in different models to suit different types of footwear and activities, including:

• Regular and Gel - features a lateral cutaway to enable the device to fit in most casual and dress shoes.
• Full-length - will fit in most types of sport, work or casual shoes with a removable insole. This style can be trimmed with scissors to fit the shoe.
• Slimfit - designed to fit ladies' heeled or narrow-fitting footwear and court shoes.

Do Orthaheel orthotics and shoes come in different sizes?

Yes, Orthaheel orthotics are available in men's and women's sizes. Orthaheel shoes and sandals are available in men's and women's whole sizes. Simply reference the sizing guide provided within the drop-down menu for the orthotic or footwear you are considering.

How does Orthaheel product fit?

All Orthaheel products are engineered for maximum comfort and fit true to size. When you make your product selection, use the sizing guide provided within the drop-down menu for the best fit. There may be additional notes provided in the product description.

How long does it take to get used to Orthaheel orthotics or footwear?

Because Orthaheel is made of 'foot-friendly' flexible EVA, it takes most people only a few hours to get used to them. Some people may need a few days, in which case we recommend taking the orthotics out of shoes for 1 to 2 hours before putting them back in and repeating until they feel comfortable.

How do I clean Orthaheel orthotics and shoes?

The easiest way to clean Orthaheel orthotics or sandals is to wipe them gently with a warm soapy cloth and let them dry away from direct sunlight. Please do not soak or put them in the washing machine.

How do I know if Orthaheel will work for me?

If you have feet and ankles that are rolling over, collapsed arches, flat feet or heel pain, chances are good that Orthaheel will be able to improve your alignment and comfort. However, we offer an unconditional 30-day comfort guarantee on our products so you can try them risk free. If you are not satisfied for any reason simply return them as per these instructions. How do I make a Return?

Questions about placing or tracking an order

How do I get my free foot care kit?

Use the promotion code FOOTKIT during checkout and the free foot care kit will be added to your shopping cart.  The offer expires May 9, 2011 (or while supplies last) and cannot be combined with any other promotion or coupon. You must have at least one additional product in your cart to receive the free gift. Limit one per order.

How much does shipping cost?

Ground shipping for all orders is $7.00. You can expedite your order for an additional cost ($17.00 for 3-day and $25.00 for 2-day service); please select your shipping preference when checking out.

Do you ship to P.O. boxes or Military APO/FPO addresses?

At this time we are unable to ship to P.O. boxes or APO/FPO addresses.

When can I expect my order?

With the exception of major holidays, orders placed before 9 a.m. PST Monday - Friday will be shipped within 48 hours of the purchase date. Orders placed after 9 a.m. will be shipped within 72 hours. Please allow additional time during holidays.

How do you ship orders?

We ship orders via UPS, and you can select your delivery preference upon checking out.

Can I expedite my order?

Yes, you can select expedited UPS service at check out.

Do you charge sales tax on merchandise?

Sales tax will be added to orders shipped to Florida and California. Shipments to California are subject to 9.5% sales tax; shipments to Florida are subject to 7% sales tax.

What forms of payment do you accept?

We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express.

How can I check my order status?

When your order has been processed you will receive a shipping confirmation by email, from which you can track delivery.

Can I change or cancel my order?

Yes, you can change or cancel a purchase within 1 hour of placing your order by calling Customer Care at 1-888-882-7954 or emailing ecom@orthaheelusa.com during regular business hours (Monday through Friday from 8 am - 5 pm Pacific Standard Time). To change your order, we will need to cancel it and have you re-submit the order with your changes.

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Questions about returns or exchanges

What is your return policy?

If you are not satisfied with your Orthaheel purchase or if it isn't what you are looking for, you can return merchandise you purchased through our website within 30 days of the original purchase date.

How do I return or exchange a purchase?

If you are not satisfied with your Orthaheel purchase or it isn't what you are looking for, you can return the merchandise if:

• You purchased the product through our website and
• It is within 30 days of the original purchase date

To return merchandise, please follow these simple steps:

• Download the Return/Exchange Form
• Complete the Return Form and include it with a copy of your Packing List (sent with your order) and the merchandise in the original shipping carton.
• Send via a trackable method such as USPS Mail Delivery Confirmation, UPS or Federal Express to:
  
  Orthaheel Returns
  c/o Buffalo Warehouse
  1624 Pacific St.
  Union City, CA 94587

Orthaheel is not responsible for packages lost in transit.

Please note:

• Shipping and handling charges are not refundable.
• Once we receive your return, please allow up to 15 business days for your credit to be processed.

For exchanges, we recommend placing a new order to expedite your purchase. We will process your return as above.

Where do I find Orthaheel in stores?

How can I find a store near me?

View our Store Locator for Orthaheel retailers in the U.S.

How can I learn about new products and promotions?

How can I receive information about new products, promotions or discounts?

You can receive our free Foot Facts and special offers by clicking the Newsletter Sign Up at the bottom of any page.