Breaking: Study Validates Foot Levelers Custom Orthotics Significantly Reduce Low Back Pain, Help Reduce Reliance on Opioids

What could eclipse the eclipse?

In our world–in the world of safe, effective pain management and the fight to save lives as the national opioid emergency rages on–it’s a new, major research study that proves what we’ve know for over 65 years:

Foot Levelers + Chiropractic care significantly reduce Chronic Low Back Pain

—by an average of 40.4 percent.

Published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, the study hits the print stands September 1. Click here or scroll down to view the full news release.

Foot Levelers custom orthotics, like Chiropractic care, are safe, painless, non-invasive and cost-effective–in stark contrast to risky, expensive surgery.  It’s important to note that Chiropractic is, and has always been, a proudly drug-free approach to care.

Got Pain? Avoid the knife and potentially life-threatening drugs. Call 800.553.4860 to find a Foot Levelers doctor near you.

ROANOKE, VA—August 22, 2017—A conclusive new study, “Shoe Orthotics for the Treatment of Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial” conducted by National University of Health Sciences and published in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation shows that Foot Levelers custom orthotics, particularly in combination with chiropractic care, significantly reduce Low Back Pain (LBP). The National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports 80 percent of adults experience LBP at some point in their lifetime and it’s the single leading cause of disability worldwide, with many taking prescription drugs for pain relief – which often leads to long-term drug abuse and addiction.

“The study unequivocally confirms what we have known for over 65 years: Foot Levelers custom orthotics are a powerful first-line treatment in the battle against LBP,” says Kent S. Greenawalt, CEO of Foot Levelers, the world’s leading provider of custom-made functional orthotics and other therapeutic products. “There is significant scientific evidence that explains the foot-spine connection, but the bottom line is that using Foot Levelers to balance and support the feet—the foundation of the body—helps balance and support the spine. This study is another striking development in the case for evidence-based, conservative care of LBP, which in the face of America’s ongoing opioid crisis, is more important news than ever.”

A Chiropractor resident treats a patient in Hayward, California

Key Findings

• Foot Levelers orthotics significantly reduce Low Back Pain 34.5 percent
• Foot Levelers orthotics plus chiropractic care reduce Low Back Pain 40.4 percent
• Foot Levelers alone or in conjunction with chiropractic care improves function:  18.5 percent and 32.3 percent, respectively

Methodology

• Outcomes assessed at six weeks. Outcomes also assessed after 12 weeks, and then after an additional three, six, and 12 months.
• Improvements in both pain and in function as measured on the Numeric Pain Rating Scale and functional health status (Oswestry) scale.
• 225 subjects with LBP were randomly assigned to one of three groups:

1. Wait-list: no treatment for 6 weeks.
2. Foot Levelers Shoe Orthotic Group: treatment plan consisted of Foot Levelers custom orthotics only.
3. Plus Group: treatment plan of Foot Levelers custom orthotics plus chiropractic care.

Manuel Duarte, DC, MSAc, DABCO, and DACBSP, Chair of Clinical Practice at National University of Health Sciences, (Lombard, IL) and one of the study’s lead researchers, says, “LBP is one of the most common reasons cited for missed work and the NIH study confirms more than one quarter of adults reported LBP during the past three months.  Most alarming is the link between LBP and the deadly opioid epidemic, a challenge that is effectively addressed when Foot Levelers custom orthotics and drug-free chiropractic care are the first-line approach for LBP pain management.”

More on this important breaking story coming soon!

Media Contact:
Foot Levelers, Inc.
Elizabeth Parsons, 540-682-2336
Elizabeth.Parsons@FootLevelers.com

Let’s Get Nerdy

Science. We like it.

And not just because the design of our custom orthotics is based on it. Not just because research proves again and again that our custom orthotics help Low Back Pain, plus a ton of other pain and performance issues.*

Wellllllll... OK. That’s a big part of it.

But we also like science because our patients like it. Nay, our patients demand it! As well they should–health is “kind of a big deal” and folks want to make sure they’re making the right decisions for their body, well-being, and longevity.

That’s why today (!) we released a BIG, whopping, dare-we-say thrilling update to our Patient Report of Findings… Check out the latest and greatest below!

This new Report of Findings–available on the cloud-based Kiosk only–reveals detailed info and images about the health of your feet and their three arches, plus how arch collapse may be contributing to problems throughout the body. It helps your doctor determine if you’re a candidate for custom orthotics.

Our 3D BodyView generates a fantastic Patient Report of Findings too–but this version is more in-depth than ever. You and your doctor are armed with…

• More data about your feet and posture
• Enhanced options to review the Report together
• Nifty new graphics that show how orthotics can improve your posture
• Sections your doctor can customize with her or his practice information so you’ll always have your doctor’s info handy should you have questions or want to schedule a follow-up

You also get emailed your very own version of the Report.

Patients are loving the Kiosk because scanning yourself is fun–and it’s a real eye-opener when it comes to learning how important foot health is, not just for the feet, but for the entire body.  Docs love the Kiosk because it saves them time–invaluable in any busy practice.

A patient gives the Kiosk a whirl as C.A. Lexi Zoppetti looks on at Bompiani Spine & Sport in Latrobe, PA.

So go ahead, get nerdy with us! We at Foot Levelers ❤ our science and we think you will too. If you’ve got back pain (or hip pain, joint pain, knee pain, neck pain, even headaches!), ask your doctor how research-backed custom orthotics can help. Don’t have a Foot Levelers doc yet? Give us a call at 800.553.4860 or message us on Facebook–we’ll help you find one in your area.

(And whether your doctor scans your feet with the 3D BodyView or the new Kiosk, the end result–should you need it–is a great pair of custom orthotics, built from scratch, made just for you).

*Hint: we’ve got another BIG announcement coming soon in the science arena. Stay tuned!

Rory’s Story (and The Case of the Missing Orthotic)

The most rewarding part of working for Foot Levelers? Helping patients–no question.

And Rory’s story is one of our favorites.

Earlier this month, our gal Tammy, who works in our Sales & Service Department, read about the plight of an adorable little guy all the way across the pond in Lancashire, England. Six-year-old Rory was born four months premature, leaving him with sensory, physical, and neurological issues. He’s unable to walk, but with ongoing therapy his parents hope that one day he will.

To stand, Rory wears a special support frame plus custom orthotics custom-made at a U.S. lab. From a special vest that helps Rory breathe, to ongoing therapies, tests, and nutritional supplements, Rory’s care is incredibly expensive.

Rory with his mom Sally and dad Henry

One of Rory’s shoes fell off on a trip to visit his father’s family. The special insole was inside, so the family went to the media with a plea: help us find our son’s shoe.

Tammy was moved as she read about Rory.

“Losing Rory’s shoe is a huge blow as the insole costs many hundreds of pounds and was made exactly to fit his feet,” said Rory’s dad in the story posted on CornwallLive. Rory “relies on his insoles” to help him get the support he needs to be able to stand.

He added: “One day we hope that he will be able to walk, but for now he relies on his insoles to hold his feet in the correct position when standing in his support frame.”

The moment Tammy finished the story, she reached out to our friends  Dr. James Bloom and Dr. Adam Greenfield at Stanmore Chiropractic Clinic near London. Without hesitation, they agreed to help Rory any way they could.

Rory’s shoe with his special insole. The match went missing during a family vacation, and the family asked the public’s help in finding it.

This week, Rory’s family made the 200-mile trip to London so that Dr. Bloom and Dr. Greenfield could take scans and imprints of Rory’s feet.

Dr. Adam Greenfield (left) and Dr. James Bloom with Rory earlier this week

Once Rory’s imprints arrive here in Roanoke, Virginia, we’ll make a pair of custom orthotics just for Rory at no charge to the family.

We’re excited for Rory to get his new custom orthotics, which should be arriving soon. You can read more about Rory’s story by liking his page on Facebook.  If you would like to give to support this little boy’s ongoing care, click here.

Because Rory’s case is complicated, the doctors took several foam impressions of his feet in addition to scanning his feet with the Foot Levelers 3D BodyView. The impressions and 3D images will be used to build Rory’s new pair of custom orthotics at our Roanoke, Virginia headquarters.

 

 

1 Scan = Unlimited Pairs (for Up to 2 Years!)

Did you know that Foot Levelers keeps your foot scan on file for 24 months? That means a fresh pair of custom orthotics or orthotic footwear may just be a phone call away!

Call your doctor today to ask about additional pairs–whether it’s the same model you got before or you want to try something completely different, one scan gives us the information we need to build you the support you need.  And if you don’t have a Foot Levelers doctor yet, call or message us today to find one near you! 800.553.4860.

Foot Levelers’ Seabreeze custom orthotic flip-flop, taking in some rays

New Shoes, New Flip-Flops, New Ways to Save This Spring!

DOCS: Our 65^th Year celebration continues! Call 800.553.4860 to learn more about our NEW fabulous orthotic footwear plus NEW fabulous ways to save!

Patients: Visit Your chiropractor or call us at 800.553.4860 to find one near you!

Docs: May is a great time to make sure your patients have the footwear they need for spring and summer, and Foot Levelers is here to help with even more additions to our already extensive Shoethotic^® and custom orthotic flip-flop collections. Plus, big savings in May with code STEP20—call 800.553.4860 to take advantage today!

Get to know our brand new custom orthotic footwear styles below…

• New Clarks Marus Edge Shoethotics: Casual styling meets sporty versatility in the new Clarks Marus Edge for men. This trendy lace-up evokes a boat shoe vibe, with a breathable textile upper and soft lining that offer instant comfort—no break-in required. A high-rebound, lightweight outsole offers limitless flexibility, perfect for spring and summer lounging and outdoor enjoyment. Mention SAVE20 and save on these brand new beauties today!

• New Women’s Catamaran^® Custom Orthotic Flip-flops: It’s time for her to take the helm with the new Catamaran custom orthotic flip-flop for women. On the boat, at the beach, at the barbecue—wherever your patient’s journey takes her, the unbeatable comfort and durability of Catamaran custom orthotic flip-flops are hers to command. The Catamaran for women features 3 Arch Advantage, a soft leather top cover and strap, and a shock-absorbent mid-layer. (Interested in the men’s Catamaran? Check it out here!) Use code STEP20 to set sail with a pair today!

Foot Levelers Shoethotics®, Sandalthotics® and custom orthotic flip-flops are the world’s healthiest footwear, because they’re fitted with your patient’s custom-made, individually designed orthotic. Foot Levelers custom orthotic footwear takes the guesswork out of choosing footwear that’s actually good you, plus the shoe-orthotic combo often costs less than purchasing these wellness products separately.

Remember, Docs! Use STEP20 to save on ALL custom orthotic footwear—including our newest custom orthotic footwear styles! With code STEP20, your patients can go from work to play with a firm foundation all year long. Call Foot Levelers today to put some spring in your patient’s step and to take advantage of STEP20!

Media Alert: Foot Levelers Named as World Federation of Chiropractic’s (WFC) Premier Corporate Sponsor in Historic Agreement

As the Exclusive Premier Corporate Partner of the WFC, Foot Levelers Further Extends Its International Presence and Legendary Support of the Chiropractic Profession

ROANOKE, VA—April 7, 2017—Foot Levelers, the world’s leading Chiropractic supplier and manufacturer of custom orthotics, has been named as the WFC’s (World Federation of Chiropractic) new Premier Corporate Partner.

Dan of Foot Levelers (right) shows off our new Kiosk at the WFC Assembly event in D.C.

Foot Levelers made the announcement just prior to the WFC’s Assembly of Members, which was held March 13-14 in Washington D.C. As the exclusive Premier Corporate Partner of the WFC, Foot Levelers further extends its international presence and legendary support of the Chiropractic profession.

Addressing delegates at the Assembly, Foot Levelers CEO Kent S. Greenawalt spoke of his support for the aims and objectives of the WFC: “Foot Levelers has been supporting doctors of Chiropractic in their practices for 65 years,” he said. “During this time, we have evolved with the Chiropractic profession and are now pleased to be supplying orthotics in 83 countries around the world. Partnering with the WFC seemed natural to us and we are delighted to share its aims and objectives in advancing the Chiropractic profession.”

He continued: “At a time where low back pain has been identified as the leading global cause of disability and where the overuse of opioids has reached epidemic proportions, we know that Chiropractic is uniquely positioned to deliver non-drug, non-surgical solutions. The safe, effective care that Chiropractic doctors are delivering to patients around the world translates to improved health for millions. Foot Levelers is extremely pleased to be working with the WFC at a time where the world needs more Chiropractors.”

L-R Kent S. Greenawalt, our Fearless Leader; Dr. Richard Brown of the WFC, and Dawn Galbraith, Foot Levelers Sr. Vice President

WFC Secretary-General Dr. Richard Brown commented: “The WFC is thrilled to have signed this 3-year agreement and are proud that Foot Levelers will be partnering with us to further our mission of advancing awareness, utilization and integration of Chiropractic internationally. Foot Levelers has an outstanding global reputation and the quality of their products is unparalleled.”

He continued: “We are looking forward to a relationship where the ultimate beneficiary will be Chiropractic. The expertise and corporate support that Foot Levelers brings to the WFC will make an enormous difference to the projects and initiatives that we are looking to undertake in the coming years. To have a Premier Corporate Partner of this caliber is a huge boost to the WFC’s ability to exert influence around the world.”

About World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC): The WFC is a not-for-profit, non-governmental organization that represents the Chiropractic profession internationally. Its members are the national associations of 93 countries in seven world regions. Headquartered in Toronto, Canada, the WFC is a non-governmental organization in official relations with the World Health Organization.

Media Alert: Docs, Win the Revolutionary New Foot Levelers Kiosk!

Every Use of Code SHINDIG through March 31 = 1 Entry to the Kiosk Sweepstakes!

The More Uses of Code SHINDIG, The More Chances to Win!

ROANOKE, VA—March 22, 2017—Foot Levelers turned 65 years old in 2017, and we’re celebrating throughout the year with special contests, savings and more! The latest “guest to the party” is code SHINDIG, with incredible savings for healthcare providers on all our custom-made orthotics through April 30th. Plus, with every use of SHINDIG from March 22 through Friday, March 31^st, doctors are entered to win Foot Levelers’ revolutionary new Kiosk!

Every use of SHINDIG is another chance to win! There’s no limit to how many times docs can save and gain a Kiosk sweepstakes entry. Providers are encouraged to call Foot Levelers’ Sales & Service at 800.553.4860 to take advantage!

The Kiosk sweepstakes runs March 22^nd through Friday March 31st ONLY. (SHINDIG savings end April 30). 

The Kiosk makes it easier than ever for doctors to scan patients for custom-made orthotics.  Dozens of Kiosks have already been sold, with doctors lining up to be the first to experience this cutting-edge, self-service innovation. After all…

• Scans every patient, so the doctor doesn’t have to
• Patient education made easy
• Scans in less than 30 seconds
• It’s like a new employee for your office

Dr. Kevin Wong of Orinda Chiropractic & Laser Center was among the first to get on the Kiosk pre-order list. “The minute I heard about the new Foot Levelers Kiosk, I knew I had to have one for my East San Francisco Bay Area practice,” said Dr. Wong.  “Foot Levelers has always been on the cutting-edge of innovation and the Kiosk is sure to take my patient education and orthotic care to the next level. I love the idea that patients have the option of self-scanning and learning the benefits of custom orthotics before my exam even begins…I can’t wait to see how the Kiosk accelerates my practice and improves my patients’ outcomes.”

The Kiosk boasts a touch-screen interface that educates patients on their scan results and helps them select custom-made functional orthotics.  Only Foot Levelers’ custom-made functional orthotics are backed by dozens of research studies, 65 years in business, and the testimonials of millions of happy patients.

 

Docs test drive the Kiosk at the recent WFC Biennial Congress in Washington, D.C.

 

Step Right Up! Get to Know Our New Kiosk

Docs all over the world have been going wild for our NEW Kiosk, Foot Levelers’ revolutionary cloud-based technology that empowers patients to scan themselves while waiting for their Chiropractic appointment.

The Kiosk makes it even easier for docs to ensure that EVERY patient gets evaluated for custom-made orthotics, plus it offers patients an exciting, immersive educational experience. The benefits of custom-made orthotics are made crystal-clear before the patient’s exam even begins. 

The Foot Levelers Kiosk…

• Saves time: Patients “do the work” of scanning!
• Is fast, easy and fun! With a touch of a button, the scanning experience begins
• Scans 2 feet at once
• Is cloud-based, so doctors can access their patients’ information from anywhere

It’s like a new digital assistant for the office. Docs, call today to find out how you can be among the first in your region to offer this exciting technology.

Back from D.C.!

Just a few pics of the team at DC2017, the 14th WFC Biennial Congress in the historic Washington Hilton, March 15th-18th. We were excited to meet with Chiropractors from all over the world plus learn about the latest and greatest in the profession. Speaking of latest and greatest (if we DO say so ourselves) — we showed off our new Kiosk!

For the first time, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC), and the Association for Chiropractic Colleges (ACC) joined forces to present a world-class Chiropractic program featuring the latest in scientific research, global perspectives on the future of the profession, and inspirational sessions delivered by the profession’s thought leaders and content experts.

Elizabeth and Dan trying Standard Process’s Echinacea suppliment

Far Left: Nash. Back row: Dr. Tim Maggs; Dawn (middle); front row, L-R: Dan, Elizabeth and Rob.

L-R: Dan, Dawn, Elizabeth, Rob and Dr. Maggs.

Rob makes a new friend

On March 14th at the National Press Club, our CEO Kent S. Greenawalt delivered opening remarks at the official launch event for the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress‘s  “Save Lives. Stop Opioid Abuse. Choose Chiropractic” campaign. Chiropractic, Kent argues, can lead the charge in reversing America’s ongoing opioid epidemic with its staggering implications on communities, families and the American healthcare system.

You can view the moving presentation here.

 

 

 

A Woman’s Place is in the Profession

Did you know? More women than ever before are joining the Chiropractic profession. In fact, in a field that was once almost completely male-dominated, some of today’s Chiropractic graduating classes are nearly a 50-50 male/female split.

On this International Women’s Day, Foot Levelers honors women the world over, with a special nod to those women Chiropractors who have dedicated their careers to helping patients lead  healthier, happier lives. Here are just a FEW of the women DCs who have, or are, shaping the profession, many of whom we’re proud to call “partner.”

Dr. Mabel Palmer, aka the “First Lady of Chiropractic”

Dr. Alicia Yochum (left), foremost Chiropractic radiologist and educator

Dr. Sherry McAllister, Executive Vice-President of the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress

Dr. Jennifer Walker of Balance Wellspace in Roanoke, Virginia

Dr. Irum Tahir, international speaker, coach, entrepreneur and Chiropractor based in Syracuse, New York

Chiropractic students at Life Chiropractic College West in Hayward, California

Dr. Gitte Tonner of Amsterdam, The Netherlands, who is Convention Academic Organizer for the European Chiropractors’ Union

Dr. Kristina Petrocco-Napuli, Foot Levelers speaker and renowned specialist in Chiropractic care for women and children

Dr. Sharon Gorman, President of the League of Chiropractic Women

Dr. Mads Schroder of Schroeder Family Chiropractic in Fresno, California

Dr. Michelle Riegleman of Delafield Chiropractic in Delafield, Wisconsin

Chiropractic author, speaker and coach Dr. Lona Cook (left) and associates

Dr. Heather Lambert of Atlantic Coast Physical Medicine in Summerville, South Carolina

Dr. Karin Drummond, author and owner/doctor at Drummond Chiropractic in Bloomington, Indiana

Dr. Rhonda Sharman of Life Care Chiropractic & Wellness Center in Waldorf, Maryland

Dr. Maiken Zeigler (right) of Zeigler Chiropractic in Denver, Colorado

Dr. Katie Stull of Natural Health Improvement Center in St. Joseph, Michigan (copyright Tucker Creative Photo)