The APMA Seal of Acceptance/Approval Program
The APMA Seal of Acceptance/Approval Program recognizes products which have been found beneficial to foot health and of significant value when used in a consistently applied program of daily foot care and regular professional treatment.
The Seal of Acceptance evaluates footwear, materials, insoles, hosiery and equipment.
The Seal of Approval evaluates the use of therapeutic agents and their adjuncts (pharmaceuticals).
The Seal is awarded to a product after the Committee on Podiatric Seals, a standing committee of the APMA, scientifically evaluates and determines whether the product allows normal foot function and promotes quality foot health. Additionally, evidence of usefulness and safety must be established, either by an appropriately recognized laboratory or clinical investigation, or by the product’s meeting certain physical standards applicable to materials, footwear, insoles, hosiery, equipment, or pharmaceuticals. Companies must provide research documentation, information on intended use, patents, composition, and evidence of quality control procedures for each product. A detailed scientific evaluation is conducted by each committee member on every product. The committee then sends its recommendation to the APMA Board of Trustees, which has the authorization to either accept or reject the recommendation.
If you have questions or would like to request a copy of the Seal guidelines, please email Sealinformation@apma.org.