If you have never been to an orthotics clinic before, it is normal to have questions about what to expect and what you should bring with you.

The good news is that you do not need to arrive knowing exactly what type of orthotic or brace you need. Your appointment is an opportunity to talk about what you are experiencing, your daily activities and your goals, and to help determine the appropriate next step.

A little preparation can make that conversation easier. Here are a few things you may want to have with you for your first appointment at ProMotion Orthotics.

1. Your Prescription or Referral, If You Have One

If a doctor or another healthcare professional has given you a prescription, referral or other documentation related to your concern, bring it with you.

This information can help the ProMotion team understand why you have been referred and provide important clinical information about your needs.

Not every appointment or service has the same prescription or referral requirements. If you are unsure whether you need one, call ProMotion Orthotics before your appointment and the team can let you know what documentation may be required.

2. Relevant Medical or Clinical Information

If you have reports, notes or other clinical information related to the reason for your appointment, it may be helpful to bring those as well.

You do not need to arrive with your complete medical history. Focus on information that relates to the concern being assessed, particularly documentation that has been provided by the healthcare professional involved in your care.

If you are not sure whether something is relevant, bring it with you or ask the clinic when you call.

3. Your Current Orthotics, Braces or Other Devices

Already wearing an orthotic, brace or other supportive device? Bring it with you, even if it is old, worn or no longer comfortable.

Seeing what you currently use can give your orthotist useful information about your previous support, fit and experience. It also gives you an opportunity to explain what has been working well and what has not.

If you have more than one device that is relevant to your appointment, consider bringing those as well.

4. The Shoes You Wear Most Often

For an appointment involving your feet or lower limbs, bring a pair or two of the shoes you wear regularly.

Think about your real life. If you spend most of the week in work shoes but arrive wearing running shoes, your everyday footwear may provide more useful information.

You may want to bring:

• Your everyday walking shoes
• Work shoes or safety footwear, if you wear them regularly
• Athletic shoes if sports or exercise are an important part of your routine
• Shoes you frequently wear with your existing orthotics

Different shoes provide different amounts of room, structure and support. Looking at the footwear you actually use helps put your needs into a practical, everyday context.

5. A Few Notes About What You Are Experiencing

You do not need to prepare a detailed medical report. It can, however, be helpful to think about what prompted the appointment.

For example:

• What are you having difficulty with?
• When do you notice discomfort or instability?
• Does it happen while walking, standing, working, exercising or doing another activity?
• How long has it been happening?
• Is there something you would like to be able to do more comfortably or confidently?
• Have you previously used an orthotic, brace or other form of support?

These details help give context to your appointment and keep the conversation focused on your individual needs and goals.

7. Your Questions

Your first appointment is also your opportunity to ask questions.

You may want to know how an orthotic or brace will fit into your daily routine, whether it can be worn with your usual clothing or footwear, what follow-up may be required, or what funding and insurance options might apply.

Write your questions down beforehand if that helps. There is no expectation that you already understand orthotic terminology or know which device is appropriate for you.

What If You Are Not Sure What You Need?

That is okay.

Many patients contact an orthotics clinic because they have been referred by another healthcare professional, are experiencing a mobility or support concern, or simply need help understanding the next step.

You do not need to choose a device before you arrive.

At ProMotion Orthotics, appointments are booked by phone so the team can learn a little about what you need and schedule the appropriate type of appointment.

Before Your Appointment: A Quick Checklist

Before you leave, check whether you have:

• Your prescription or referral, if applicable
• Relevant clinical documentation
• Existing orthotics, braces or supportive devices
• Everyday footwear relevant to the appointment
• Insurance or funding information, if applicable
• Any forms you have been asked to complete or bring
• A short list of questions or concerns

If you do not have everything on this list, do not assume you need to postpone your appointment. Requirements can depend on the service you need. Call ProMotion Orthotics if you are unsure what applies to you.

Ready to Get Started?

If you have questions about orthotics or bracing, or you are not sure what kind of appointment you need, contact ProMotion Orthotics.

Our team can help you understand what information to prepare and determine the appropriate next step based on your needs.

Call ProMotion Orthotics at 613-725-3415 to book an appointment or ask what you should bring.