4 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Orthotics
At Caring Podiatry, one of the services we are pleased to offer our Monmouth and Middlesex County patients are custom orthotics. Prescribed by our podiatrists, Andrew Schmierer, Craig Shapero, and Mark Fillari and custom-made and fitted to support your unique feet, orthotics can be effective in treating many foot problems including plantar fasciitis, bursitis, tendonitis, and heel, foot, and ankle pain. One of the benefits of custom orthotics vs. over-the-counter varieties is that they last a long time—but not forever. How long a pair of custom orthotics will last depends, not surprisingly, on the amount of usage. The more often they are used and the more actively, the quicker they will wear out. Typically, orthotics will last anywhere from one to five years. How do you know it’s time for a new pair?
Four signs that it may be time to replace your orthotics:
You’re in pain. If you are beginning to experience the same discomfort you felt before you got your orthotics or if you’ve developed new pains in your feet, ankles, knees, or back this is a strong indicator that your orthotic is no longer functioning as it should.
You’re developing calluses or corns. Corns usually form because of friction between your foot and your footwear and calluses are a response to repetitive pressure to one spot. If this is happening with shoes that you’ve been using your orthotic with for a while, chances are the orthotic is wearing out.
There’s visible damage. If you examine your orthotics and find places that appear thin and worn down, you find any cracks in the material or pieces have broken off it’s time to get them replaced.
You notice uneven wear on your shoes. Orthotics are designed to correct biomechanical issues with your feet. Shoes that are wearing more in one spot or on one side can mean that your feet are no longer properly aligned, and your weight is not being distributed evenly.
Talk to your Podiatrist
If you notice any of the above signs or it’s been a long time since you’ve been fitted for new orthotics, make an appointment at our Monroe Township (609-860-9111) or our Neptune (732-455-8700) offices. The foot doctor will examine your feet and evaluate any chronic conditions you have to determine if a new custom orthotic is warranted at this time.
