Are you wondering when to replace orthotics? When people get a new set of custom foot orthotics, one of the first questions is: how long they will last? How often should I get a new pair?
The Short Answer for When to Replace Orthotics
It would be nice to give a definite estimate, but we generally say every 2 – 5 years. It depends on how often you wear them, what you wear them for, what you wear them in, your individual body, what materials were used in the orthotic, and the quality of the craftsmanship. Also, if you have had any injuries or surgeries to your feet, ankle, knees, hips, or spine, it would be worth getting them reassessed.
The Long Answer for When to Replace Orthotics
We normally say that depending on the size and weight of the person, their activity level, how much they wear the orthotics, and the quality of the orthotics, they should last anywhere from 2 to 5 years. Of course, there are many variables. Some people will have more than one pair and by dedicating them to different footwear, they will improve the longevity of the orthotics. Since orthotics may be made from different materials a softer more accommodative pair may not wear as well as a firmer more functional set. These differences are due to the treatment plan.
For example, we might use more flexible materials for sports applications or a disease that can be highly affected by materials such as diabetes or arthritis. We might use stiffer materials to treat an alignment issue or to support a heavier person or a bigger pair of feet.
Obviously, since orthotics are custom made there is the potential for great variation, even between left and right on the same person. A person with size 6 feet will respond differently and need a different level of support than an individual with a size 14. Sometimes, the same person may have a firm set of orthotics for work, and more flexible ones for exercise and activities. Sometimes, the opposite may be true.
The individual, their history, health conditions, and their feet will dictate the formulation. It is important for you to know and trust the provider. Were the devices made by the provider or by a laboratory service? Can the provider repair, revise or update the orthotics without sending them away? These are important considerations if you’re wondering when to replace orthotics.
In our facility, we often see all kinds of orthotics. Some only last for six months, and others have held up for 10 years. We see orthotics that have been eaten by the dog, melted by a heater, and have been repaired using duct tape. We have all of the tools and know-how on-site to not only build the orthotics initially, but maintain and rebuild them as the years go on. Your old set of orthotics can often be rebuilt and repurposed as an insert for a house shoe, a garden shoe, a gym shoe, or more. Often from a short visit, we can determine when to replace orthotics and the best course of action for rebuilding the old set.
For people who use their orthotics for balance and stability, it is important to make sure that the devices fulfill those functions. As you wear them, they will change and become compressed or go out of alignment. You can tell an orthotic is out of alignment by placing it on a flat surface and looking at the heel. As your apply pressure, the orthotic should not rock from left-to-right. If it does, you’ll know it’s out of alignment and should bring it to be assessed by a professional.
If you start to feel off balance, or have a resumption of pain symptoms, check with your provider to see if they should be revised or replaced. More often than not, the shoe is the culprit and I have often found that one or both shoes that are distorted or excessively worn can undermine a good orthotic. As we age, confidence in our gait, balance and stance may be what saves us from a fall or a repetitive stress injury. Remember your ounce of prevention.
More questions than answers? You can get more information on orthotics, footwear and pedorthic services at Thera-Ped Foot and Ankle Clinic by calling (506) 632-9397, or book an appointment today with our Canadian Certified Pedorthists.