Custom orthotics can often last for several years, but there is no single replacement schedule that applies to everyone. Their lifespan depends on the materials used, how often they are worn, the activities they are used for and whether your feet or treatment needs have changed.
The main structure of a custom orthotic may remain in good condition while the top cover, cushioning or padding wears more quickly. In some cases, an orthotic can be adjusted or refurbished rather than completely replaced.
Regular reviews help ensure your orthotics are still comfortable, fitting correctly and supporting the reason they were originally prescribed. Learn more about custom orthotics on the Gold Coast at The Foot Stop.
What affects the lifespan of custom orthotics?
Custom orthotics are made from different materials depending on the support, flexibility and cushioning required. A device prescribed for everyday walking may experience different wear from one used for running, work or high-impact sport.
Factors affecting how long your orthotics last include:
- The material and construction of the orthotic
- How many hours they are worn each day
- Your work, exercise and sporting activities
- The shoes in which they are worn
- Changes in your body weight or activity levels
- Exposure to moisture, heat or improper cleaning
- Whether your feet are still growing
- Changes in your foot health or treatment needs
Someone who wears orthotics occasionally may experience less wear than a person who uses the same pair every day for work and sport. However, visible wear is not the only reason an orthotic may need reviewing.
How do you know when orthotics need replacing?
Orthotics should be reviewed when they are visibly damaged, no longer comfortable or appear to have stopped providing the same support.
Signs that you may need an orthotic review include:
- Your previous foot or lower-limb symptoms have returned
- You have developed new pain or discomfort
- The orthotics rock, move or no longer sit properly in your shoes
- The top cover is peeling, compressed or worn through
- Padding has flattened or shifted
- The orthotic is cracked, bent or damaged
- You notice new rubbing, redness or pressure marks
- Your walking, activity levels or footwear have changed
- Your feet have changed shape or size
If your orthotics begin causing pain, persistent redness, blisters or skin irritation, stop wearing them and arrange a professional review.
Do worn top covers mean the whole orthotic needs replacing?
Not necessarily. The softer materials on top of an orthotic often wear faster than the main supportive structure.
Depending on the condition of the device, your podiatrist may be able to replace the top cover, add new cushioning or adjust part of the orthotic. This can extend its usable life without manufacturing a completely new pair.
A podiatrist needs to inspect the orthotic to determine whether refurbishment is appropriate. Attempting to glue, heat, cut or reshape an orthotic at home may damage the device or change how it functions.
Should adults have their orthotics reviewed regularly?
Yes. Even when an orthotic appears to be in reasonable condition, your feet and treatment needs can change.
A review provides an opportunity to check:
- Whether the original symptoms have improved
- How the orthotics are wearing
- Whether the prescription is still appropriate
- How they fit inside your current footwear
- Whether adjustments could improve comfort
- Whether new symptoms need to be assessed
You do not need to wait for an orthotic to break before arranging a review. If you are uncertain about its condition, bring it to your next podiatry appointment.
How often should children’s orthotics be checked?
Children’s orthotics generally require more frequent reviews because children’s feet, shoes and movement patterns change as they grow.
An orthotic that was appropriate when prescribed may become too small after a growth spurt or shoe-size change. Parents should also monitor whether the orthotic is sitting correctly inside the shoe and whether their child has developed redness, rubbing or discomfort.
A review may be recommended if:
- Your child has moved up a shoe size
- The orthotic no longer fits inside their shoes
- Their symptoms have returned or changed
- The orthotic has become worn or damaged
- Their activity or sporting demands have increased
- They are avoiding wearing the orthotics
The Foot Stop provides children’s podiatry on the Gold Coast, including orthotic assessments and ongoing reviews.
Can changing shoes affect your orthotics?
Yes. Orthotics need enough space to sit flat and securely inside the shoe. A device that works well in one pair may feel different in a narrower, shallower or less supportive style.
Shoes with removable insoles can provide additional room for custom orthotics. Secure fastenings such as laces or adjustable straps can also help keep the foot and orthotic in position.
Take your orthotics with you when purchasing new shoes. If you are unsure which shoe features are suitable, The Foot Stop provides professional footwear advice.
How can you help custom orthotics last longer?
Proper care can protect the materials and reduce unnecessary wear.
- Remove your orthotics regularly to check for damage
- Wipe them with a slightly damp cloth when needed
- Allow them to air dry naturally
- Keep them away from heaters and direct heat
- Do not put them in a washing machine or dryer
- Do not cut, glue, heat or reshape them yourself
- Check that they sit flat inside your shoes
- Bring them to podiatry reviews, even if they appear worn out
If your orthotics become wet, remove them from your shoes and allow them to dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct heat.
What should you bring to an orthotic review?
Bring your orthotics and the shoes you wear most frequently. This may include work shoes, everyday shoes and sporting footwear.
It is also helpful to tell your podiatrist:
- How often you wear the orthotics
- Which activities you use them for
- Whether your original symptoms have changed
- Where you feel rubbing, pressure or discomfort
- Whether you have changed footwear or activity levels
Your podiatrist can then assess the orthotics as part of the complete footwear and treatment picture.
Can orthotic reviews be provided at home?
Yes. The Foot Stop provides mobile podiatry across the Gold Coast and NSW, including Northern NSW and Sydney.
Our mobile podiatrists can review your existing orthotics, assess how they fit inside your shoes and discuss changes in your comfort or mobility. The Foot Stop also uses digital scanning technology to support custom orthotic services in suitable home-visit appointments.
Some adjustments or services may need to be completed away from your home or at our Elanora clinic. Our team can explain the most appropriate process for your needs.
Learn more about mobile podiatry on the Gold Coast or mobile podiatry in NSW.
Book a custom orthotic review with The Foot Stop
Custom orthotics do not need to be replaced simply because they have reached a particular age. Their condition, fit, comfort and effectiveness are more important than the date they were prescribed.
The Foot Stop provides custom orthotic assessments and reviews at our Elanora clinic, along with mobile podiatry services across the Gold Coast, Northern NSW and Sydney.
Request an appointment with The Foot Stop if your orthotics are worn, uncomfortable or no longer providing the support you expect.