09/15/2022    Ivar Roth, DPM, MPH

Why Aren’t Orthotics Covered By Insurance? (Jeff Root)

I would like to help Jeff Root understand what Dr.
Shavelson meant. First, Dr. Root did give us the
“language” which is still useful today but more in
a historical perspective.

I have spoken to Dr. Shavelson in the past and I
understand where he is coming from and I will try
to interpret with my own twist his and my
understandings. While Dr. Shavelson and I may
disagree on what to call his biomechanical theory I
believe he is RIGHT ON. I subscribe to the MASS
theory of orthotic lingo as opined by Dr. Ed
Glaser. For those of you unfamiliar with Dr.
Glaser’s theory I would highly recommend that you
read up on it. Basically in a practical sense he
throws out the Root book of biomechanics and has
replaced it with his MASS theory.

I can tell you from a practical point of view that
his theory is genius and the orthotics that he
makes are unbelievable. From a patients point of
view, they really work. Having made the traditional
orthos for over 20 years when I converted to the
MASS theory my patients began to love their
orthotics. I hardly ever have to make an adjustment
and patients can’t get enough of them. They are
truly like an annuity. Once the patient experiences
the relief and comfort they afford they return
often requesting second pairs and more and are
converted for life.

While I respect all the biomechanical specialists
out there once you actually experience the
practical application of the MASS theory you will
discard the old ROOT theory. While that may seem
radical it is the reality.

I believe in the MASS theory so much that I have
told my son who is in podiatry school that once he
joins me in practice he can throw away all he was
taught in school about biomechanics.

I know this will cause controversy among my peers
but the proof is in the pudding, i.e. many years
of very satisfied patients. Quite simply old root
orthotics are NOT the gold standard any more in my
experience.

Ivar Roth, DPM, Newport Beach, CA

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