What is a C.Ped.

The Certified Pedorthist

PEDORTHICS (Peh-dor-thix) - The design, manufacture, fit and modification of footwear to alleviate problems caused by disease, overuse, congenital condition or injury.

Also referred to as a C.Ped., this is a specialist in the proper use of footwear.  Typically this includes shoes, shoe modifications, foot orthoses and other pedorthic devices to solve problems in, or related to the foot and lower limb.

When a foot requires medical attention, footwear becomes a factor in the patient's treatment, recovery or rehabilitation.  Your C.Ped. addresses your "footwear" needs.

The Pedorthist's Qualifications

A C.Ped. is well versed in the study of foot and lower limb anatomy; pathology; biomechanics, which involves human locomotion; gait analysis; footwear fitting; lower extremity orthotic design, fabrication and material shoe construction and modification; patient and practice management.

Professional Pedorthists have worked under the tutelage and supervision of a Sr. Certified Pedorthist, to become familiarized with pedorthic approaches, terminology and techniques.

The learning process never ends for a true Board Certified C.Ped. who must attend specific pedorthic courses and seminars to maintain their certification.

Patient care and practice management skills are also an important part of a C.Ped's. education.

How Does a C.Ped. Do His/Her Job:

A C.Ped. understands shoe construction, evaluation and assessment.  This includes shoe materials, adhesives, closures, fitting characteristics and modification techniques.  

A Board Certified C.Ped. will select and modify footwear (or make it when necessary) for you.  These adjustments can be made inside or outside the shoe.  This footwear will help you maintain or regain as much mobility as possible.

We have all experienced improperly fitted footwear.  This can cause those aches and pains many of us are so familiar with.  Everything which surrounds your foot, be it an orthotic, your shoes, sandals, slippers, socks, bandages, braces, partial-foot prosthetic or any other device, affects your ability to walk in comfort.

All these external factors paly an integral role in the condition of your feet.  This makes footwear a crucial part of your recommended treatment plan.

Above all, a good Pedorthist will follow-up with a customer to ensure their footwear is functioning properly.

Phil Celestino, C.Ped