5 Signs You Need Custom Orthotics Replacements
We share below some telltale signs that it may be time to replace your orthotics:
Your Foot or Ankle Pain Has Returned
A strong signal that your orthotics are no longer functioning well is if you start to feel the same pain you did before getting your orthotics. Also, if you’ve developed recent problems in your feet, ankles, knees, hips, or back, it might be an indicator that your orthotic has seen better days and might need replacing.
Age
Assess the lifespan of your orthotics to see whether they are still fit for purpose. A set of orthotics made from a semi-rigid material like graphite or carbon fiber, for example, may be expected to last a bit longer than orthotics made from very soft and squishy materials.
You may need a new pair of hard plastic custom orthotics every three to five years. But if they’re built of soft plastic or foam, you may have to replace them annually.
How often you wear them also affects how long they will last. In general, most of our patients with orthotics are instructed to wear them at all times. However, some may only need orthotics for certain shoes or activities, or you may have different pairs of orthotics for different pairs of shoes. If you aren’t walking on that set every day, or for only a few hours every day, they’ll last longer.
Look at the Bottoms of Your Shoes
Your shoes wearing out more heavily on one side can mean poor feet alignment or unequal weight distribution. Check the soles of your shoes to determine if there are any indications of uneven wear, and get your orthotics review from our experts.
Your Custom Orthotics Appear Old
One sign that your orthotics’ usefulness is waning, and they can no longer support your feet is if they are worn down. Check your orthotics for cracks, broken pieces, or thinning soles, which are clear indications that your orthotics’ time is running out.
Other Significant Changes
Lifestyle changes may also dictate whether you require new orthotics. Body changes such as pregnancy or foot injuries may require a revision in the prescription for your orthotics because your current pair may not account for the new bodily changes.
Also, as you might expect, people who spend a lot of time standing and walking (or even running and jumping) will wear down their orthotics faster than those who are mostly sedentary.
How Long Can Custom Orthotics Last?
Typically, custom orthotics last for 1-5 years. It’s important to note that lifespan depends on how they look and how they are used. Knowing how to identify the early warning signs and going for regular reviews can help you get the full lifetime value of your orthotics.
At Texas Foot & Ankle Center, assess your orthotics to determine whether a replacement is necessary. Sometimes, adjustments or repairs might return your orthotics to great condition, prolong their lifespan, and save you money.
