Marie Bergeron, pedorthist

Pedorthic footware is carefully fitted and often is designed so that it doesn't look any different from everyday shoes.

Pedorthists are trained to find solutions to many foot problems by fitting customers with special shoes or by modifying a person's shoe to alleviate pain caused by foot conditions.

Below are some frequently asked questions about pedorthics.

Who are Pedorthists?
A pedorthist is someone who has studied foot anatomy, shoe construction and has hands-on experience fitting shoes to feet. Certified pedorthists have passed a test administered by the Board for Certification in Pedorthics. Pedorthists must attend continuing education courses to maintain their certification.

Is a pedorthist a doctor?
Pedorthists are not doctors, although they frequently work closely with podiatrists and orthopedic doctors. Podiatrists will often refer their patients to a pedorthist for modifications to their shoes.

Matthew Bertrand, Pedorthist

Why do some people need pedorthic care?
Good foot health depends on wearing quality footwear that is correctly matched to a person's foot. Many people have foot conditions that standard or unmodified shoes do not adequately address and because of this, they may find walking painful.

So my feet hurt. Why do I need pedorthic care?
Inadequate or improperly fitted shoes can cause foot pain. But the problems frequently extend beyond the feet, causing damage to the legs and back.

What does a pedorthist do?
When you visit a pedorthist, he or she will discuss your problem and its possible causes. If you have already been to a doctor and have a prescription, the pedorthist will fill it. The pedorthist will examine your feet and your shoes, and suggest possible solutions.

Will I have to buy new shoes?
Not necessarily. Many foot problems can be solved by inserting devices called orthotics into your everyday shoes. These devices make the shoe conform to the individual shape of your foot and can correct some foot problems. The pedorthist may also be able to modify your shoes in other ways to correct the problem.

If I have to get new shoes, will they be ugly?
No. Several manufacturers make shoes suitable for use in pedorthics that look just like everyday shoes. These shoes are designed to be customized for your foot. Even shoes that are specially built for your foot can be made in a number of different styles, from athletic and casual to dress shoes.

This quote from one of our customers probably says it best:

"I still can't get over that I can wear a real shoe instead of the sneakers that I was told I would have to wear for the rest of my life. They fit so well and make my feet feel like I've never had anything wrong with them."

More questions
Have a question we haven't answered here? Email us at info@bergeronshoes.com.