Blog

Custom orthotics are designed to support your feet and improve the way your body moves. Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are made to fit your feet and address specific needs. With regular use, they can make a noticeable difference in comfort and mobility.

But custom orthotics don't last forever.

Over time, the materials can wear down, your feet can change, or your activity level may change enough that your orthotics no longer provide the support they once did. So, how long should you expect a pair of custom orthotics to last, and how do you know when it's time for a new pair?

How Long Do Custom Orthotics Last?

There isn't one set expiration date for custom orthotics. With proper care, a good pair can often last several years, but the actual lifespan depends on several factors.

How often you wear them is one of the biggest considerations. Someone who wears the same orthotics every day for work, exercise, and daily activities will likely put more wear on them than someone who only uses them occasionally.

The materials used to make the orthotics also matter. Some are designed to be more rigid and durable, while others use softer materials for cushioning and comfort. Your weight, activity level, footwear, and the type of correction the orthotics provide can also affect how quickly they wear out.

That means you shouldn't necessarily replace your orthotics simply because they've reached a certain age. Instead, pay attention to how they're performing and how your feet feel when you wear them.

Signs Your Custom Orthotics May Need to Be Replaced

Sometimes, it's obvious that your orthotics have seen better days. Other times, the changes are subtle. Here are some signs that it may be time to have your orthotics evaluated.

They're Showing Visible Wear

Take a look at your orthotics from time to time. Cracks, significant thinning, worn-down areas or changes in the shape of the device can indicate that the materials are breaking down.

The top covering may also become worn or damaged, particularly in areas where your foot makes consistent contact.

Some cosmetic wear is normal, but significant changes to the structure of the orthotic can affect how well it supports your foot.

Your Feet Start Hurting Again

One of the biggest reasons people use custom orthotics is to address foot pain or discomfort. If you've been wearing your orthotics comfortably for a long time and the same pain starts coming back, don't automatically assume that you simply need to get used to it again.

Your orthotics may no longer be providing the support they once did. It's worth having them checked by a prosthetic and orthotic professional to determine whether an adjustment, repair, or replacement is appropriate.

Your Orthotics Feel Different

You may notice that your orthotics don't feel the same in your shoes. Perhaps they're no longer as supportive, or you feel like your foot is sitting differently on the device.

That can happen as materials wear down. Even gradual changes can affect the way your foot interacts with the orthotic.

Your Shoes Are Wearing Unevenly

Pay attention to the soles of your shoes, too. Uneven wear can sometimes provide clues about changes in the way you walk.

If you're noticing unusual wear patterns along with discomfort or changes in how your orthotics feel, it's a good reason to have both your footwear and orthotics evaluated.

Your Activity Level Has Changed

Your orthotics were made for your feet and your particular needs at the time they were prescribed. If your routine has changed significantly, your orthotics may need to be reassessed.

For example, someone who has started running, spending more time on their feet at work or participating in a new sport may place different demands on their feet than they did previously.

A change in activity doesn't automatically mean you need new orthotics, but it is worth discussing with your provider.

Your Feet Can Change, Too

Even if your orthotics still look like they're in good condition, your feet and body can change over time.

Changes in weight, activity, age, muscle strength, or the way you walk can affect how your orthotics fit and function. An injury or surgery can also change your needs.

This is why replacing an old pair isn't always as simple as ordering the same thing again. Your provider may recommend evaluating your current orthotics and your feet before determining what you need next.

In some cases, an adjustment may be enough to get an older pair working properly again. In others, replacement may make more sense.

How to Make Your Orthotics Last Longer

Taking care of your orthotics can help you get more life out of them.

Keep them clean and let them dry if they get damp. Avoid exposing them to excessive heat, which can damage certain materials. When moving them between shoes, don't bend or force them into footwear that isn't a good fit.

Your shoes matter, too. Even the best custom orthotics can't work properly if they're being placed in shoes that don't provide enough room or support.

It's also a good idea to check your orthotics periodically rather than waiting until they become uncomfortable. Catching wear early may give your provider an opportunity to make an adjustment or repair before the problem gets worse.

Don't Ignore Changes in Comfort

Custom orthotics are meant to support your feet and help you move comfortably. If they're no longer doing that job, it's worth finding out why.

That doesn't necessarily mean you need a completely new pair. Sometimes an adjustment or repair can address the problem. But if the materials have broken down or your needs have changed, replacement may be the better option.

If you've had your custom orthotics for several years, have noticed increased foot pain, or simply aren't getting the same support you used to, consider having them evaluated.

At Atlantic Coast Prosthetics and Orthotics, our team can evaluate your current orthotics and help determine whether an adjustment, repair, or replacement makes the most sense for you.