Most of us love to be in a happy feet comfort zone. So much so that we do not even replace our shoes or insoles till they wear out. Sometimes, your shoes undergo uneven wear and tear. This may upset your balance and cause ankle pain or foot pain.
A good pair of shoes and insoles are a must for everyday wear. Worn orthotics can affect your foot health by causing foot infections. So, do not wait until you get pain from calluses or your shoes or insoles show signs of visible wear and tear.
So, when is the time you should change your foot orthotics and how frequently should you change them?
Common signs that indicate you need an orthotic replacement
Each pair of custom orthotic inserts or shoes is different. But on average, most of them last for 1- 5 years. Look out for the following factors given by our custom orthotics specialists in Calgary who tell you it is time to replace them.
Discomfort
The main objective of using orthotic insoles is to provide comfort for your feet. If you feel any kind of discomfort like itching, burning, pricking, etc. When you use your insoles, it is time to change them. Look for such signs on each foot. Sometimes, one insole might be more worn out than the other. Even then, it is better to replace both.
Pain
Medical practitioners prescribe custom foot orthotics to provide pain relief. If you find the slightest indication of any type of pain, change your foot insoles at once.
No therapeutic improvement.
For a majority of foot conditions, orthopedic footwear and shoe insoles are the best alternatives to foot surgery or even knee surgery.
Usually, a foot doctor does a thorough foot scan and foot examination. Then he suggests the right type of orthotic shoe inserts for that condition.
Functional orthotics are specially meant to cure common foot conditions like plantar fasciitis. Accommodative orthotics are for treating foot deformities like flat feet.
If you find no significant improvement in your condition or if your foot issue advances, then it is time to change your foot inserts.
Age
The average lifespan of a pair of custom inserts is 5 years. If the inserts are made of hard plastic, as a rule of thumb you must replace them every 3-5 years. If they are made of foam or soft plastic, you must replace them every year.
Nature of use
Orthotics get worn when you use them for athletic activities. If you use them for daily activities, they will not wear out as often. For people who follow an active lifestyle or athletic lifestyle, your custom footwear will wear out more quickly.
Wear and tear
Look at your orthotics for signs of wear and tear. If you find any cracking or peeling, it is time you change them.
Formation of calluses
Constant wear of your footwear and insoles can cause calluses on your feet. Such calluses are important indicators of wear and tear of your insoles. They signal the need for change.
Lifestyle changes
Any change in your life or lifestyle like pregnancy, delivery, or menopause may warrant the need for new orthotics. Additional cushioning might be needed for pregnant women for effective foot pain relief. The formation of diabetic foot ulcers is a sign that you have developed a sugar ailment.
Foot mechanics change along with the condition of the body and you will likely find that you need new orthotics to suit the new condition.
Changes in foot structure
If your foot shape has been altered due to an injury or there are new outgrowths like corn or bunions, consult a podiatrist. You might be using over-the-counter orthotic shoe inserts made of softer materials with limited effectiveness. What you need are prescription orthotics made of semi-rigid materials to treat such issues.
Gait issues
If you find your gait or walking pattern affected, there is likely a foot health issue. Opt for new insoles with an orthotic fitting to improve the gait mechanics.
Shoe condition
Take a good look at your shoes. They might be casual shoes, athletic shoes, dress shoes, or running shoes. Whatever the type may be, see if they have uneven wear and tear in certain areas. If they are worn out only at the heel or arch, this is where the problem might lie. Consult a foot specialist to get a new pair of custom orthotics.
Changing your custom foot orthotics frequently is a must to maintain foot health. A multitude of foot issues arises only because of using the same orthotics for a long period. Contact a foot expert at Shoe Solutions Calgary for custom foot orthotics at Shoe Solutions to prevent biomechanical foot issues and ensure that your feet are in prime condition.
Visit Shoe Solutions in Calgary and meet our expert pedorthists for your custom-made foot orthotics and live life a better way.