If you have invested in custom orthotics, you’ll probably have found that they’ve made a huge difference to the comfort and health of your feet, and you’ll want to prolong their life as much as possible. Here, we’ll consider how to look after your orthotics and we’ll give you our expertise on how long they will last. We’re always happy to help at Foot Solutions, so feel free to pop in and talk to us about your orthotics or any other foot concerns you may have.
Orthotics will usually last between two and five years, and choosing the right type for your lifestyle can make a difference here. We recommend using them in conjunction with good quality shoes that fit you well, giving you the best chance of having healthy, happy feet throughout your life.
Why Do I Need Orthotics?
Orthotics are devices that fit inside your shoes and help to support the muscles and bones of the feet more effectively. Shoes that do not fit well can cause or contribute to long and short term foot pain and problems such as plantar fasciitis and Morton’s Neuroma can develop as a result. Well fitted shoes can solve many foot problems, and orthotics can be helpful to ensure a really good fit. Over the counter orthotics may be effective but we always recommend trying custom orthotics as they are made to fit your unique foot shape and they can make a huge difference to the way you stand, walk and move in your shoes.
If you’ve never tried orthotics before, you are sure to be impressed. It’s hard to believe that these little devices can make such a significant difference, but the small adjustments in alignment that your orthotics can facilitate will alter the way the foot moves entirely and the results are often dramatic. We see many customers who have been living with long term foot or back pain and are amazed by the change their orthotics have made.
How Do Orthotics Work?
Orthotics do not change the shape or structure of the foot, so they will not affect your foot when you are not using them, but they change the way your foot feels inside the shoe and the way it is supported. Orthotics can control the alignment and function of the foot, treating problems such as excessive rolling in (pronation) or out (supination) of the foot. When the foot is not aligned properly, there will be a lot of pressure on certain areas of the foot and pain and stress can develop in these areas.
Many people are surprised by the level of relief they can obtain by using orthotics in their shoes, particularly if they are experiencing persistent foot pain caused by poorly fitting shoes. Custom orthotics are fitted to the unique foot and shoe they will be used for, and this means that they can provide the highest level of comfort and protection to the wearer.
How Long Do Orthotics Last?
Precision tailored orthotics tend to last at least two year, often up to five years if looked after correctly. This will depend upon how often they are used, and you can assess when they need replacing by inspecting them regularly. You can prolong the life of your orthotics by:
- Checking how they look. You will be able to see whether your orthotics are deteriorating by checking for any cracks, breaks or wear on the devices themselves. If they are becoming worn or have developed damage, you will know that your orthotics are nearing the end of their life and that they will soon need replacing.
- Considering your lifestyle. People who are more active will wear down their orthotics much quicker than those who are sedentary in their daily life. If your lifestyle or situation has changed significantly, you may need to think about being fitted for new orthotics as your existing orthotics may not support your feet adequately anymore. If you are pregnant or have developed a foot injury, you may need a different type of orthotic or your requirements may have changed, so it is always worth having this checked if your situation changes.
- Looking at the soles of your shoes. If your feet are well balanced and supported, your shoes will wear evenly across the soles. However, if you notice more wear on one side of the sole this can indicated that your weight is not being distributed correctly or that your feet are misaligned, suggesting that your orthotics are not performing as well as they should be. This is a good sign that you should consider getting new orthotics made.
- Paying attention to your feet. If your feet hurt or the foot or ankle pain that caused you to seek out orthotics has returned, you can be fairly sure that your orthotics need replacing. If they are no longer doing the job and your feet are painful again, it is a good idea to get them checked by a professional to ensure that you address the problem quickly.
Getting your orthotics adjusted. If your orthotics have sustained wear and tear or your foot mechanics have changed, you may be able to resolve the problem by having your orthotics adjusted or repaired. We may be able to reshape your orthotics or adjust the level of cushioning or the arch height so that you can continue to use your orthotics and benefit from the relief they provide.
We suggest that you get your orthotics checked at least once a year, even if you do not think they are in need of replacement. This is a good opportunity to check your feet and ensure that your orthotics are still working well for you and make any necessary changes. Doing this as a preventative measure will help to protect against foot pain and injury, and we will always be happy to talk to you at Foot Solutions.
Good Shoes Are Vital For Foot Health
Many people do not realise how important it is to wear good shoes and visiting a specialised shoe store can be the solution you’ve been looking for. If you’re shopping for shoes, you should try to visit the shoe store as late in the day as possible, as feet expand naturally throughout the day. Shoes should be comfortable and provide cushioning in all the right places, and should also be suited to their intended purpose. If you are exercising, for instance, you need shoes that will offer good support for the way your feet move, and this may be different for different forms of exercise.
It’s a good idea to let your feet breathe by giving them a break from shoes at certain points during the day, and looking after your feet with a daily foot care routine will help you to prevent problems from developing. You should ensure that you alternate shoes rather than wearing the same pair every day, as this can lead to problems such as Athlete’s Foot when shoes cannot air properly in between wears. Do not store your shoes in cupboards as this provides the perfect damp, moist environment for bacteria to grow!
Visit Foot Solutions To Give Your Feet A Treat
It’s vital to look after your feet at any time of the year and at Foot Solutions, we are here to help. We can advise you on all aspects of foot care, from lifestyle changes to custom made orthotics, and we can make suggestions that may transform the way your feet feel. Considering factors such as the socks you are wearing can also make a difference to the health of your feet, and taking care of your feet on a daily basis can go a long way to prevent problems.
Pop in and chat to our experienced team about your foot health and you will always find a friendly welcome and plenty of expertise. We will be delighted to show you our new ranges of comfortable, stylish shoes for all seasons and we will help you to find the solutions that work for you and your lifestyle. We also offer services such as custom orthotics and foot health consultations, and we will be happy to discuss these with you when you visit our store.
