What are Foot Orthotics?
Foot orthotics are inserts placed inside your footwear to help alleviate pain or symptoms related to how your foot is built, how it moves, or how stress is applied to your foot and up your leg. They come in a variety of materials, shapes and sizes depending on your lifestyle needs and your foot structure.
Jennifer and Amanda are trained to determine if your foot problem requires an orthotic device.
Not everyone needs orthotics, but if you do, this is our process:
Determine your lifestyle needs
Assess your foot structure and function
Take a 3-D mold of your feet
Design an orthotic specific for YOU!
How To Break-in Your Custom Foot Orthotics
Your muscles, other tissues, and joints, may need time to adjust to your new orthotic inserts. A proper break-in schedule prevents discomfort, rubbing, or overuse irritation. Follow these instructions for a safe and comfortable transition:
What to Expect the First Week
Common sensations during the first week may include:
· Mild arch pressure
· Slight muscle fatigue in the feet or legs
· Awareness of the device underfoot
These sensations should go away as your body adapts.
Recommended Break-In Schedule
Day 1 Wear 1-2 hours during light activities only.
Day 2-3 Increase to 2-4 hours, split time into shorter intervals if needed.
Day 4-5 Increase to 4-6 hours and wear during moderate daily activities.
Day 6-7 Progress to full day. If discomfort persists, hold at current level for 2-3 more days.
After 7- 10 days you should be able to wear them full-time or as instructed by your Pedorthist.
Begin using orthoses for exercise or sports only after you can comfortably wear them all day.
When to Contact Your Pedorthist
Contact our office to book an appointment with your Pedorthist if you experience:
· New discomfort or pain that persists after the first week of breaking them in
· Blisters or skin breakdown
· A feeling that the orthoses are too high, too hard, or uneven
· Difficulty fitting them into your shoes
Adjustments are common and often necessary. Your orthoses are designed so that they can be fine-tuned.
Care and Maintenance of Your Orthotics
· Wipe clean with a damp cloth and mild dish soap. They can be lightly rinsed, but do not soak.
· Air-dry away from heat sources
· Have them checked after 2 years. They may not need to be replaced, but they may need to be rebalanced or get a fresh top-cover.