Custom Orthotics & Gait Analysis in Richmond Hill
Your feet, knees, hips and lower back are linked through how you move. At Union Health Network in Richmond Hill, Dr. Shahab Entezami, DC offers gait assessment and custom foot orthotics as a conservative option for selected biomechanical complaints. Orthotics are one part of an assessment-based plan — individual results and treatment needs vary.
Common Reasons People Consider a Gait Assessment
You might consider an assessment if you experience any of the following:
- Foot, arch or heel discomfort such as plantar fasciitis-type pain
- Knee pain that worsens with walking, running or standing
- Shin splints or recurrent lower-leg discomfort with activity
- Flat feet or high arches contributing to discomfort
- Lower back or hip discomfort that may be linked to your gait
- Running or standing-related overuse pain
What a Gait Assessment May Involve
A first visit determines whether orthotics are appropriate for you:
- A history of your foot, leg and back symptoms and your activities
- Observation of your gait and foot posture in standing and walking
- Footwear review and guidance
- A movement screen of the hips, knees and ankles
- A discussion of whether custom orthotics, other conservative care, or referral is appropriate
How Orthotics Fit Into Your Care
Where appropriate, orthotics are combined with active care, not used alone. A plan may include:
- Custom foot orthotics prescribed from your assessment
- Footwear and gait guidance
- Exercises to strengthen the foot, hip and core
- Complementary chiropractic care where helpful
- A follow-up review of how the orthotics are working for you
When Orthotics Are Not the Right First Step
Orthotics are not right for every situation. We take a different approach or refer when:
- A suspected fracture or acute injury needs medical imaging or care
- There is severe swelling, redness or signs of infection — seek medical assessment
- Symptoms may be driven by a hip, knee or spinal issue needing other care first
- The diagnosis is unclear — further assessment or referral is appropriate
- Orthotics support comfort and function; they are not a guaranteed fix — outcomes vary
What to Expect at Your First Visit
At your first visit we take a history, observe how you stand and walk, and review your footwear. We explain our findings and whether orthotics are appropriate, or whether another approach fits better.
There is no obligation to proceed. Orthotics, when prescribed, are made to your assessment and reviewed for fit and comfort. Individual results vary.
No referral is needed. Patients come to us from Richmond Hill, Thornhill, Markham, Vaughan and across the Greater Toronto Area.
Your Provider
Dr. Shahab Entezami, BSc, DC, CMAG
Doctor of Chiropractic · Certification in Contemporary Medical Acupuncture (McMaster)
Dr. Entezami is a licensed chiropractor in Ontario with a focused clinical interest in conservative musculoskeletal care, including gait-related complaints. He is a registered chiropractor with the College of Chiropractors of Ontario.
He offers gait assessment and custom orthotics as part of assessment-based care at Union Health Network in Richmond Hill.
Meet the full team on our Our Team page, and see all booking options on the Book an Appointment page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need custom orthotics?
Not everyone does. An assessment helps determine whether custom orthotics, over-the-counter supports, exercises, other care, or a referral is appropriate for you. Individual needs vary.
How long do orthotics last?
Lifespan varies with use, activity and the materials used. Orthotics are reviewed periodically for wear and continued fit.
Will orthotics fix my back pain?
Orthotics may help as one part of a broader plan for some people with gait-related back discomfort; they are not a guarantee of relief. Individual results vary, and back pain often requires a combined approach.
Are custom orthotics covered by insurance?
Custom orthotics are often covered under extended health benefit plans, sometimes with a physician or podiatry referral. Please confirm your coverage before your appointment.
Selected clinical sources
The clinical information above reflects general guidance. Care at our clinic is based on your individual assessment; individual results and treatment needs vary.
Ready to book?
New patients welcome — no referral needed. Serving Richmond Hill, Thornhill, Markham, Vaughan and the GTA.