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!

Supporting Those ‘Who Risk Their Lives to Keep Us Safe’

Team Foot Levelers was honored to kick off an unprecedented partnership with the brave men and women of Roanoke Fire-EMS this week, our hometown’s first responders. One-hundred and sixty-five of the Star City’s finest will be product-testing a new Foot Levelers orthotic top cover, designed for the toughest jobs and lifestyles!

The Roanoke Press Corps was also out in force to help share the news with our community. Check out some of their recent stories:

• From WSLS Channel 10: “Foot Levelers Gives Back to Roanoke Firefighters“
• From WDBJ Channel 7: “Foot Levelers Partners with Roanoke Fire-EMS to Test Product Improvement“
• From WSET Channel 13: “Firefighters Get Custom Orthotics from Foot Levelers“
• From The Roanoke Times: “Foot Levelers Enlists Firefighters to Test New Orthotics“
• From WFIR Talk Radio: “Roanoke Firefighters Receive Free Custom Orthotics During Test“
• And look for a piece from WFXR Channel 21 coming soon too!

“Roanoke Fire-EMS is excited to partner with Foot Levelers on this exciting opportunity,” said Roanoke Fire-EMS Chief David Hoback. “We can’t wait to see how these custom products will benefit our firefighters.”

“Every new Foot Levelers product and product element must go through an intensive series of tests,” said Steve Stone, Foot Levelers Senior Vice President… “There aren’t many folks who work in tougher environments or who are harder on their feet and bodies than first responders; plus, as a company, we’re always looking for ways to give back…What better way than to support the selfless men and women who are out there every day risking their lives to keep us safe?”

Good news for our firefighters, who frequently suffer from back pain: a major clinical trial to be published in The Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation conclusively shows that Low Back Pain improves with Foot Levelers custom orthotics. We’ll be sharing more on this exciting development soon!

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!

Docs: Enter to Win An Eno Double Deluxe Hammock + Osprey STRATOS 24 Backpack! (+ Last Chance to SHINDIG with Us!)

The SHINDIG continues for 7 more days ONLY with UNLIMITED chances to win this week’s amazing prize package: An Eno Double Deluxe Hammock + Osprey STRATOS 24 Backpack! 

• Every use of code SHINDIG = BIG SAVINGS + chances to win our Outdoor Adventurer prize package

• The more you SHINDIG, the more you save + the greater your chances of winning! (Today through April 30th ONLY!!)

SHINDIG is a win-win-win. Part of Foot Levelers’ ongoing 65th year anniversary celebration, the savings docs receive with code SHINDIG are nothing short of historic. But hurry, the SHINDIG ends this week! So does the opportunity to win this FINAL SHINDIG prize package! Call 800.553.4860 today or include code SHINDIG in special instructions.

Here’s what you need to know about the must-have prize package for the Outdoor Adventure junkie: “Like carrying a breeze on your back, the STRATOS 24 incredibly ventilated pack features panel-loading convenience and organization for demanding day hikes and features adjustable torso lengths to dial in the perfect fit for everyone.”

“The ENO Double Deluxe is ENO’s largest hammock with room for two and then some. Sure, you could hog the whole Double Deluxe and feel like the King or Queen of your own country, but what good is a party bus with no party? Invite a friend, stretch out, and laugh together at all the people sitting in the dirt like suckers… The added width of the Double Deluxe makes it the perfect option for some quality time for you and your favorite St. Bernard.”

Increase your chances of winning the ENO Double Deluxe Hammock + Osprey STRATOS 24 Daypack by SHINDIG-ing with us through the end of this week ONLY! Call 800.553.4860 or include code SHINDIG in special instructions.

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.

“WHYOTY” April: Enter to Win a Pair of Brooks Shoethotics® at Facebook.com/FootLevelers!

Brooks Adrenaline GTS 17

MEDIA ALERT: To celebrate 65 years of relieving pain and improving patient outcomes, Foot Levelers launched an exciting, year-long patient sweepstakes: “Where Have Your Orthotics Taken You?” (“WHYOTY”). There’s a prize for every month; April’s was recently revealed to be a pair of Brooks Shoethotics^®. Brooks are the go-to shoes of serious runners; our Brooks Shoethotics combine this exceptional brand with Foot Levelers custom-made orthotics built in.

Whether it’s running their first marathon or walking to the mailbox pain-free, patients who post their photos and/or videos of them “in action” with their orthotics to Foot Levelers’ Facebook page are entered to win a fabulous WHYOTY prize each month.

“My Foot Levelers took me hiking through an old volcano on the island of Hawaii!” said Danielle Evans of Michigan, January’s winner. “I never travel without them. Two foot surgeries and metal in my feet have made me so thankful for the support they offer my three arches (or lack there of), the lightweight design, and soft foam inserts. I had tried ones from my foot doctor who did my surgeries and the hard inserts made my feet hurt worse! Foot Levelers orthotics are a life changer!”

Another submission from WHYOTY contestant Claire Welsh!

It’s easy for patients to enter WHYOTY. Here’s how:

1) Posts a photo or video to our Facebook page of an activity in which you’re wearing Foot Levelers orthotics or orthotic footwear.

2) Say a few words about what’s happening and where.

3) Each post, post like, and post comment equals entries into a monthly sweepstakes. At the end of the month, we announce the winner!

The more you post, and the more your friends “like,” share, and comment on it, the greater the chance of winning that month’s prize! Visit Facebook.com/FootLevelers or FootLevelers.com/PostandWin for more information and official rules.

From relaxing on the Baja beach to ice fishing in Minnesota, from training with famous MMA fighters to chillin’ with Chewbacca, below are some of our favorite WHYOTY submissions so far. Foot Levelers orthotics take folks everywhere!

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

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.

 

Media Alert: Kent S. Greenawalt to Speak at Groundbreaking Event in the Fight Against Opioid Abuse

Greenawalt to Address Global Healthcare Leaders, Media in Washington D.C. This Week at the World Federation for Chiropractic’s (WFC) Biennial Congress. The Launching of a New F4CP Campaign — “Save Lives. Stop Opioid Abuse. Choose Chiropractic.” — May Be “The Most Significant Meeting in the History of the Profession”

Foot Levelers’ Chairman and CEO Kent S. Greenawalt will deliver opening remarks on behalf of the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (F4CP) on March 14th at the National Press Club in Washington D.C. next week. Greenawalt, who is also the founder and Chairman of the Foundation, will speak on a topic that could not be more urgent or relevant today: the opioid epidemic in America, an ongoing tragedy with staggering implications on communities, families and the American healthcare system. Chiropractic, Greenawalt says, can lead the charge in reversing the horrifying trend.

Nearly 30,000 Americans died from opioid overdose in 2014, a number that has tripled since 2000. For comparison, about 5,000 die annually from cocaine overdose. “The pharmaceutical industry, physicians and other prescribers, hospitals, and the FDA are all to blame,” wrote one author, a physician on the front lines, in a New York Daily News article exploring the problem last year.

The Foundation’s “Save Lives. Stop Opioid Abuse. Choose Chiropractic” campaign aims to “touch every consumer in the U.S. with our message that Chiropractic is a safer strategy than opioids.” It follows a positioning paper the Foundation released last year, “Chiropractic: A Safer Strategy Than Opioids.”

The Foundation is asking for “5,000 doctors of chiropractic to contribute $200 each to support the efforts of ‘Save Lives. Stop Opioid Abuse. Choose Chiropractic.’ Those that want to contribute more can add others names – children, assistant(s), significant others and in honor of deceased family members – for an additional contribution.”

To learn more and give, visit www.f4cp.com/pledge/tosavelives.php.

To attend the launch event on March 14th at 3 pm in the National Press Club in Washington, RSVP to alexis@f4cp.com. You can also register for the free live webcast at http://www.f4cp.com/pressclub2017/