Here are the signs your custom orthotics may be due for a replacement.
Custom orthotics are an investment in your comfort, mobility, and foot health—but they don’t last forever. Whether you’ve been wearing your orthotics faithfully every day or pulling them out seasonally for long walks and workouts, it’s important to recognize when it’s time for a replacement.
Here are the top reasons you may need a new pair of custom orthotics—and why waiting too long can lead to unnecessary pain.
1. They Look Worn Out
If the topcover is peeling, cracked, or has visible holes, it’s time to get them checked. Worn-out materials no longer offer proper support and can irritate the skin or create pressure points.
Tip: Bring them in for evaluation—we can often recover or refurbish the orthotic, depending on the condition.
2. You’re Wearing Them… But Still in Pain
If your foot, ankle, knee, or back pain has returned despite wearing your orthotics regularly, something’s changed. It could be the orthotic, your feet, or both.
We’ll recheck your biomechanics to make sure the orthotic is still doing its job—and adjust or replace it as needed.
3. You’ve Gained or Lost Weight
Changes in body weight can shift how forces are distributed through your feet. This can alter pressure points and reduce the effectiveness of your current orthotics.
If your weight has changed significantly since your orthotics were made, we may need to update the materials, shape, or level of support.
4. You’ve Had Foot or Ankle Surgery
Post-surgical feet often function differently than they did before. Ligaments, bones, and tendons may have been repaired or altered—and that changes how support should be delivered.
If you’ve had surgery since your orthotics were made, you’ll likely need a new evaluation and a redesigned pair to match your current needs.
5. You’ve Developed New Foot Pain or a New Diagnosis
New pain means something’s changed. Whether it’s plantar fasciitis, arthritis, a bunion, or something else, your original orthotic may no longer be appropriate for your condition.
Early intervention with a properly adjusted orthotic can often prevent the need for more invasive treatment down the road.
6. It’s Been Over 2 Years
Even if everything still feels okay, it’s smart to have your orthotics evaluated every 2 years. Materials degrade, and your feet can change subtly over time—especially with activity, aging, or lifestyle shifts.
Why Choose Us for Your Next Pair?
At Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center, we make custom orthotics in-house—whether that’s with our 3D printing process or our same-day Podiatech molded system. That means:
- Fast turnaround times
- Refinements based on real-time feedback
- Direct communication with the person actually making your orthotics (me!)
No Referral. No Insurance Hurdles. Just Expert Foot Care.
As a direct care podiatrist, I work directly with you—not through insurance red tape. That means:
- No need for a referral
- Transparent pricing
- A longer, more thoughtful exam
- Personalized adjustments without the delay
📞 Call 207-774-0028 or book online to have your current orthotics evaluated—or get started on a new pair made just for you.
