Professional Services
A pedorthist is trained in the manufacture, fit, and modification of foot appliances and footwear for the purpose of alleviating painful or debilitating conditions, including abnormalities or limited actions of the lower limb.
- Improvement of balance
- Control of biomechanical function
- Accommodation of foot deformities
- Reducing strain for runners and other athletes
- Re-alignment of anatomical structures
- Redistribution of external and internal forces
- Accommodation of special circulatory requirements
- Enhancement of actions of limbs compromised as a result of accident, congenital deformity, neural condition or disease
What makes EAPOD unique?
Our speciality: Custom, handcrafted orthotics made on premises.
EAPOD does not attempt to practice medicine, perform diagnoses, or replace the medical professional. It is our commitment to provide the finest products and value. Our objective is quality service, and we are constantly striving to explore, seek out, and act upon the needs and expectations of our clients.
If you are experiencing pain, please consult a physician or other health care professional first.
Member of the PFOLA
The Prescription Foot Orthotic Laboratory Association (PFOLA) ensures that our orthotics have been custom-made by prescription as per a licensed professional medical diagnosis. For more information, visit the PFOLA website: www.pfola.org
Foot Facts
Feet, like ears, eyes and teeth, tend only to worsen over time.
A structural foot problem is rarely cured - the symptoms are merely treated. Once a problem exists, it often grows more severe if not controlled.
Fortunately, the symptoms may often be relieved, through orthotics, shoes and or other foot aids.
The foot is a mass of 26 small bones, tiny ligaments, small muscles and many tendons coming from major muscles. Passing through this compact machine is a network of arteries, veins, lymph nodes and nerves. This entire complex must operate between the weight of the human body and all the hard surfaces we walk on. The foot inevitably becomes a place for problems to occur.
Feet, ankles, knees, legs and back are all connected by major muscles that span at least two joints.
If something goes wrong, it will most likely affect and influence adjacent joints as well. These connections ensure that no problem stays isolated for long.
Prescription orthotics are often the start of any possible treatment.
Orthotics give professionals and patients a place to begin.
From there, a process of refinement ensues, culminating in the right combination to resolve an individual's particular set of problems.
A good foundation is the basis of any structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can benefit from the services offered by a pedorthist?
If you are experiencing pain, see your doctor first. If your discomfort is in the lower back, hip, knee, ankle, or foot, a pedorthist may be able to help. Even those only experiencing occasional discomfort hiking or distance running can reduce or eliminate pain and improve performance.
Are pedorthic services covered by OHIP?
Unfortunately not. In many cases private health plans will cover a variety of goods and services. Check your coverage to be sure.
Do I need a prescription?
Yes. See your doctor first. A prescription will ensure that you do not pay taxes on many goods and services. Some services are unavailable without one. It will also be required by your insurance company.
What can I expect at an appointment?
Initial consultation to determine wherein lies the problem, if prescription is present, full biomechanical evaluation and casting can take place. All work is done on the premises, and your orthotics would be ready within a week.
To date, Ernie has hand-made over 1,700 pairs of orthotics; we have seen at least 2,700 clients. Each individual is treated with the utmost respect and privacy and given the care and treatment he / she deserves.
How often do I need to see my pedorthist?
A pair of orthotics will wear over time, much like a pair of shoes. Depending on use, they may last several years. Children whose bodies are still growing and those requiring frequent adjustments may need to visit several times a year.
About Ernest A. Pagnacco
Ernie has been creating professional orthoses for the past 20 years and has had his own office since September 1st, 2001.
He maintains strong relationships with physicians and other health-care professionals throughout Canada.
Ernie is committed to patient care and satisfaction, and is constantly striving to improve analysis and treatment techniques.
Contact Us
Ernest A. Pagnacco Orthotic Dispensary
401677 Highway 4, R.R.1 Hanover, Ontario N4N 3B8
Phone: 519-364-2037 | Toll-free: 1-866-323-1308
Office Hours
Please note: we will close Friday December 18th, 2009 and re-open at 9am on Wednesday January 6th, 2010. Merry Christmas and Happy New year to one and all!
Appointments are normally scheduled from Wednesdays to Saturdays between the hours of 9am - 5pm.
Closed long weekends & holidays. No walk-ins please!
Please call to book your appointment well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Driving Directions
EAPOD is located on Highway 4, a short drive east of Hanover, near the intersection of Grey Road 3 (Ayton). Watch for the blue & white house on the north side.
- Printable map and driving directions (PDF)
- Interactive map and driving directions (Google Maps)
- Driving distances:
- 180 km from Toronto (2.5 - 3 hours)
- 150 km from London, Hamilton (2 - 2.5 hours)
- 100 km from Kitchener-Waterloo, Guelph (1.5 hours)
- 60 km from Owen Sound, Kincardine (1 hour)
- 40 km from Mount Forest (40 minutes)
- 5 km from Hanover (3 minutes)