What happens at first orthotics appointment?
Asked by: Javier Collier Jr. | Last update: October 14, 2025Score: 4.3/5 (43 votes)
What to expect when you start wearing orthotics?
How Orthotics Will Make You Feel. Initially, a general “Ache” or “Tired” feeling in the foot and ankle is normal. It is normal to feel a “shin-splint” type of pain or experience new muscle pains. These will go away after a brief sit, self-massage, and adjusting the wearing time.
What do you wear to an orthotics appointment?
Before your appointment
Please wear or bring appropriate clothing to your appointment, as the orthotist will need to examine the affected limb or area. For example: with foot and ankle problems it is useful to come in trousers which can be easily rolled up, shorts or a skirt.
Are orthotics uncomfortable at first?
While you shouldn't experience foot pain, discomfort is to be expected. Your feet will need time to adjust so that the orthotics can mold and settle around your feet and into your soles.
Do you take insoles out before putting in orthotics?
Take out the shoes existing insoles before inserting custom orthotics. If you don't remove the original insoles, custom insoles will not sit properly and securely. If your insoles are not full length they can be placed on top of the shoe's existing footbed.
Shoe Inserts - Do They Help? Everyone needs to know this! (My recommendation)
Should I wear my orthotics around the house?
However, by wearing foot orthotics frequently, the pain will be greatly reduced and hopefully eliminated altogether. Bottom line – the more orthotics are worn, the more correction is present and the more effective it is for treatment and pain. Especially around the home!
Does it matter what shoes you wear if you have orthotics?
Buying the best shoes to wear with orthotics
Rigid heel counter - To keep your ankles in the right position when using an orthotic device, your shoes need to have a firm heel. This will prevent the ball of your heels from rolling or slipping away from the shoes even when you walk or run fast.
What happens at your first orthotics appointment?
Your first appointment
At the initial appointment, the Orthotist assesses you, discusses your condition and decides on the most appropriate device.
Do orthotics work immediately?
How Long Does It Take for Orthotics to Start Working? Your orthotics may start working within a few days or take a few months to work their magic. The length of time it takes for orthotics to start working depends on such factors as: The quality of your orthotics: The best orthotics are thorough and fast-acting.
What are the side effects of wearing orthotics?
- Increased Soreness and Discomfort.
- Blisters and Skin Irritation.
- Loss of Sensation or Numbness.
- Altered Gait and Posture.
- Difficulty Wearing Certain Shoes.
- Minimising the Side Effects of Orthotics.
What is the break in period for orthotics?
Wear your orthotics for 12+ hours on Day 5 (12 hours is considered “full time”) Most people can wear their new orthotics full time in five days, but it can vary from person to person. It usually takes about two weeks to become completely used to wearing the orthotics.
What foot problems require orthotics?
- Bunions (hallux valgus).
- Corns and calluses.
- High arch feet.
- Flat feet.
- Foot tendonitis.
- Forefoot pain (metatarsalgia).
- Hammertoes.
- Morton's neuroma.
How do they fit you for orthotics?
Typically, an impression of a foot is taken either by plaster or 3D scan, which is then reproduced in a lab. Then an orthotic is designed and made to fit your feet. They are 100% handmade by a specialist and involve complicated steps to manufacture.
Do orthotics realign your body?
Correct body alignment
Poor foot alignment or mechanics in your feet or ankles affect their weight-bearing abilities, placing more stress on your knees, hips, or back. Improving foot and ankle alignment with custom orthotics redistributes your body weight, easing your knee, hip, or back pain.
What age should you start orthotics?
There's really no specific age at which children should start using orthotics. Orthotics can be used by children of various ages, from kids with developmental foot deformities to older children and teenagers with sports injuries or chronic foot or leg pain.
How long does it take to get fitted for orthotics?
Step 3: Fitting and Adjustments (1 Week)
Fitting Check: We'll have you wear the orthotics in your shoes and walk around to make sure they fit well and feel comfortable. We'll also check for any areas of pressure or discomfort that may require adjustments.
What is the success rate of orthotics?
Studies indicate that orthotics are highly effective, with an 89% success rate in reducing pain associated with plantar fascia degeneration [9]. The primary objectives of orthotic use are to augment the midfoot contact area and provide medial arch support.
Why do my feet hurt more with orthotics?
Your orthotics were not properly fitted or designed, or are worn out. Improper design or fit is one of the top reasons for foot pain from orthotics. If you have an improperly fitting foot orthosis, it is often because you have chosen an off-the-shelf solution that does not fit your specific foot shape correctly.
What are the three types of orthotics?
There are three common types of orthotics known as soft, rigid, and semi-rigid. Soft orthotics are made to provide extra cushioning while the foot is planted on the ground. Semi-rigid orthotics, which are often used on flat feet, are designed to provide both cushioning and stability.
Do you need bigger shoes if you wear orthotics?
You may have to go up by half or one size so that your insole fits comfortably into your shoe.
How much can I expect to pay for orthotics?
Custom orthotics run anywhere from $200 to $800, but you'll also need to factor in other costs. This includes the associated office visits required to fabricate your orthotics as well as the cost to replace the top surfaces when they wear out. Resurfacing a pair of orthotic inserts can cost $50 to $100.
Do I remove original insoles when using orthotics?
If possible remove the original insole from your shoe first and replace it with your new insole. This prevents the insoles taking up too much room in your shoe. If you don't follow these instructions, then you may find it takes a long time to get used to your devices and to get any benefit from them.
Are Crocs good for orthotics?
They are made with deeper insole that allows for a comfortable fit with your orthotics. Crocs Rx are especially useful for diabetics because they have a wide toe and some have built-in antimicrobial properties. Crocs Rx can actually provide better support than some of your high end athletic shoes.
Do orthotics go over or under insoles?
Most shoes that are compatible with orthotics have a removable footbed that allows your custom foot orthotics to fit inside comfortably. You should not place your orthotics on top of the existing insoles. Your orthotics work best when they rest securely in your shoe, directly on the midsole (interior) of the shoe.
Is it good to wear orthotics all the time?
Updated April 3, 2023. Custom orthotics are designed specifically for your feet and intended to restore them to their ideal condition. There is no such thing as wearing them too much, but at some point, your podiatrist may say that it is alright to stop wearing them, or only to wear them during certain activities.