By Rehan Iqbal
When you spend a significant amount of money on footwear, one of the most pressing challenges is how to get the maximum life out of said footwear. The same holds true for high-priced medical equipment - most components don't come cheap, and most users must rely on once-in-a-lifetime insurance company approval to obtain these items that enhance their quality of life.
Combine the two - expensive medical-footwear, and you absolutely have a cause for concern regarding the maximum use you'll obtain from your orthopedic shoes. Not only is price an issue, but obtaining a pair that actually works to deliver comfort over a period of time is a challenge in itself. Once you achieve this goal, it's not something you're willing to let go of easily.
Generally custom foot Orthotics can last between 2 - 3 years
But there are many factors that can affect the durability of custom shoe inserts.
Lets jump into more detail and find out if your foot orthotics have a usage expiry date.
Custom Foot Orthotics
Custom foot orthotics, better known as inserts or footwear for your arches, are crafted to provide backup to troublesome areas of the foot. These specialty footwear items can raise your arch, dumb down heel pain, and help provide a solution for any joint deformity, specifically in the toes.
The key word regarding orthotics is customization. Unlike the assembly line, million-produced mass medical footwear insoles you see at WalGreens and RiteAid, these are crafted specifically with your foot in mind. These shoes custom-fit to your build and foot shape to provide support and balance in the specific areas you need most.
Normally, a podiatrist watches you walk and takes notes on your stride and balance. This provides a crystal clear picture of how your feet work and move during your daily routine. No two feet are created equal, so why should any two orthotics products?
How Long Will My Foot Orthotics Last?
So, how long will your pair of foot orthotics last? Did you get your money's worth? This actually weighs heavily on several factors. The most important focus areas include:
Telltale Signs It's Time for an Upgraded Pair of Orthotics
The key to always having comfortable foot orthotics and avoiding further damage is by quickly finding alternate means if you notice damage or any type of ineffectiveness. This means repairing, upgrading, and refashioning when you notice certain indicators.
The longer you wait to take action after noticing certain signs of damage, the higher your chances of additional pain and further injury complications become. It's always best practice to consult your physician when you expect damage. However, do your part by remaining vigilant of the following signs:
How Long Will My Orthotics Last: The Bottom Line
The bottom line is this: the number one indicator of a faulty set of orthotics is pain. At the core, these footwear accessories are designed to mitigate pain. When this is no longer accomplished, it's important you rectify the situation to continue getting your money's worth, and more importantly, experience a return to the quality of life you're used to.