3 Signs it’s Time for New Orthotics
April is National Foot Health Awareness Month, and at Caring Podiatry we’re thinking what better way to celebrate than by sharing some information on an issue that’s important to the health of your feet—your custom orthotics. Custom orthotics are medical devices worn inside your shoes that can realign your feet. This helps relieve pressure on painful areas in your feet, knees and back, create a shock absorber to protect vulnerable parts of your feet and improve overall foot function. Some orthotics are designed to help improve athletic performance. Common foot disorders that can be corrected or helped by orthotics include:
Bunions and Hammertoes
Heel pain/Plantar fasciitis
Pronation
Achilles tendonitis
Orthotics are prescribed by your podiatrist and custom made for your unique feet using highly accurate 3-D imaging technologies. Orthotics, however, do wear over time. Typically they can last one to five years depending on the type of orthotics you have and whether or not you use them daily or only for specialized activities. Below are three ways to know if it might be time to ask your podiatrist about getting new orthotics.
Your feet have recently started hurting. New foot pain, burning, numbness or just noticing that your feet don’t feel as comfortable in your shoes as they have previously may all be signs that your orthotics need to be replaced. This can be the result of natural wear of the orthotics or it may be an indicator that your foot condition has changed. Either way foot discomfort needs to be evaluated by our podiatrists, Andrew Schmierer, Craig Shapero, and Mark Fillari.
You can see visible wear signs. It’s a good idea to remove your orthotics from your shoes once a month and examine them. If you see rips or holes or notice that padding is flattened considerably it’s probably time for a new pair. If you have orthotics in both shoes compare them to see if one appears to be wearing more than another. If so, bring this to the podiatrist’s attention as an adjustment may be needed.
New blisters are appearing on your feet. If you have started to get blisters on your feet and you have not started wearing a new pair of shoes there’s a good chance your orthotics may be to blame. Blisters indicate friction or pressure is being experienced by a particular area on your foot. New calluses or corns are another sign of irritation.
If you’re wondering if your orthotics need to be upgraded, contact our Monroe Township (609-860-9111) or our Neptune (732-455-8700) offices for an appointment.