Caring for Your Custom Orthotics

Proper maintenance extends orthotic lifespan and ensures continued effectiveness.
 

Daily care recommendations:

• Remove orthotics from shoes overnight to allow moisture evaporation

• Wipe with a damp cloth weekly to remove dirt and perspiration

• Avoid exposing orthotics to extreme heat (car dashboards, radiators, dryers)

• Rotate between multiple pairs of shoes when possible

• Replace worn shoe insoles to maintain proper orthotic positioning

Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Orthotics

How long does it take to get custom orthotics?

The entire process from initial evaluation to receiving your finished orthotics typically takes 2-4 weeks. Your first appointment includes a comprehensive examination, gait analysis, and foot impression or scan. The orthotics are then fabricated at a specialized laboratory, which requires approximately 2-3 weeks. Once ready, you return for a fitting appointment where Dr. Mattia ensures proper fit and makes any necessary adjustments.

Are custom orthotics worth the cost?

For patients with chronic foot conditions, biomechanical abnormalities, or activity-related pain, custom orthotics provide significant value. Studies show an 85% success rate for conditions like plantar fasciitis when custom orthotics are part of the treatment plan. Unlike over-the-counter insoles that last 3-6 months, custom orthotics typically last 3-5 years, making the per-year cost comparable while delivering superior results. Many patients reduce their need for pain medication, physical therapy visits, and more invasive treatments after receiving properly fitted custom orthotics.

Do custom orthotics hurt at first?

Some patients experience mild discomfort during the initial break-in period as muscles and joints adapt to corrected foot positioning. This adjustment period typically lasts 1-2 weeks. Dr. Mattia recommends gradually increasing wear time, starting with 2-3 hours daily and adding 1-2 hours each day until you can wear them comfortably throughout the day. If discomfort persists beyond two weeks, contact our office for an adjustment appointment.

Can I wear custom orthotics in all my shoes?

Custom orthotics work best in shoes with removable insoles and adequate depth to accommodate the device. Most athletic shoes, work boots, and casual shoes accommodate orthotics well. Dress shoes, heels, and minimalist footwear may require specialized thin-profile orthotics or may not be suitable for orthotic use. During your fitting appointment, Dr. Mattia evaluates your most frequently worn shoes and can prescribe multiple orthotic pairs designed for different footwear types if needed.

How do I know if I need custom orthotics or over-the-counter insoles?

Over-the-counter insoles may provide adequate relief for minor, temporary discomfort or general cushioning needs. However, custom orthotics are recommended if you have a diagnosed foot condition such as plantar fasciitis or flat feet, experience chronic pain lasting more than two weeks, have visible foot deformities like bunions or hammertoes, notice uneven wear patterns on your shoes, or have diabetes requiring specialized foot protection. Dr. Mattia provides honest assessments and only recommends custom orthotics when they offer clear clinical benefit for your specific situation.

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Will insurance cover my custom orthotics?

Many commercial insurance plans provide coverage for medically necessary custom orthotics. Coverage varies significantly between carriers and individual plan contracts. DMV Foot & Ankle analyzes your benefits and informs you of your specific coverage before fabrication. When insurance covers custom orthotics, patient responsibility typically ranges from $50-$350. If your plan does not include a custom orthotics benefit, our out-of-pocket cost is typically $750. HSA and FSA funds can be used for custom orthotics as they qualify as eligible medical expenses.

How often should custom orthotics be replaced?

Most custom orthotics last 3-5 years with proper care. Replacement timing depends on your activity level, body weight, and how frequently you wear them. Athletes and patients who wear orthotics daily may need replacement sooner. Signs indicating replacement is needed include visible wear patterns or cracking, decreased pain relief or symptom return, changes in your foot structure, and the orthotic no longer fitting properly in your shoes. Dr. Mattia recommends annual orthotic evaluations to assess condition and determine if replacement or refurbishment is necessary.