Are footwear modifications covered by insurance?

Most extended health plans cover footwear modifications when the required diagnosis is documented. We prepare the prescription and supporting documentation and can submit an estimate to your insurer before work begins.

Can my own shoes be modified?

In most cases, yes. The shoe needs to be in good condition with a sole construction that can be built up or reshaped. We will advise at your assessment whether your current footwear is suitable or whether a different shoe would give a better result.

How is lift height decided?

Leg length is measured at your assessment, and the lift is prescribed based on the measured difference, your symptoms and how you walk. A lift does not always correct the full difference; the aim is comfortable, balanced walking.

How long does a modification take?

Turnaround depends on the type of modification and the footwear. Reception will confirm an expected timeline when your shoes are sent to the lab.

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Foot Clinic · Footwear

Footwear modifications

Shoe lifts, rocker soles and other modifications prescribed by our Registered Chiropodists, adapting your existing footwear to a diagnosed condition. Most insurance plans cover modifications when the required diagnosis is documented.

Call (289) 337-1657

Leather casual shoe with a full-length external sole lift added

Athletic shoe with a built-up midsole lift matched to the original tread

What Modifications Are For

Types of modification

External lifts and sole builds

Material added to the heel, or the full length of the sole, to equalize leg length. The lift is blended into the existing outsole so the shoe keeps its tread and walks naturally.

Rocker soles

A curved sole profile that reduces bending at the toes and midfoot, lowering pressure under the forefoot and easing painful or stiff joints during push-off.

Flares and stabilizers

The sole is widened on the inner or outer side to improve stability for ankles that roll, or for feet that sit unevenly in the shoe.

Stretching and widening

The upper is stretched or relieved to make room for bunions, hammertoes, swelling or bony prominences without changing to a larger size.

Depth and brace accommodation

Additional depth or internal adjustments so footwear can accommodate custom orthotics or an ankle-foot orthosis (AFO) comfortably.

Closures and fastenings

Hook-and-loop or alternative closures for patients with limited hand function, reduced flexibility or difficulty reaching the feet.

Conditions commonly treated

Leg length discrepancy
Drop foot
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Hallux rigidus
Charcot foot
Diabetes-related foot changes
Ulceration or high plantar pressure
Partial foot amputation
Ankle or foot fusion
Polio and post-polio syndrome
Stroke and other neurological conditions
Chronic ankle instability

How It Works

From assessment to fitting

1
Assessment
A Registered Chiropodist assesses your feet, gait and, where relevant, leg length, and confirms whether a modification is appropriate.
2
Prescription
The modification is prescribed and specified, including lift height and placement, and the documentation your insurer requires is prepared.
3
Fabrication
Your footwear is modified by a long-standing Canadian orthopedic footwear lab that we have worked with for many years.
4
Fitting
The modified footwear is fitted in clinic and reviewed, with adjustments made if needed.

Common questions

Other Foot Clinic services

We direct-bill most extended health plans.Billing details

Book a footwear assessment

Most new patients prefer to call. Reception can advise which practitioner is best suited to your concern and arrange a suitable time. Online booking is also available if you would prefer to book directly.