Overview
For foot health, people face many challenges, whether it be flat feet, plantar fasciitis, biomechanical issues, or just general discomfort. For many, orthotics can seem like the perfect solution. However, with so many options for orthotics out there it can be overwhelming. Here we will help you decide if custom orthotics are worth it when compared to over-the-counter orthotics by examining the price differences, benefits, and other key considerations to help with your decision.
Defining Custom Orthotic vs Semi-custom orthotic vs Insoles
Orthotic vs Insole
Before jumping in, we need to define what an orthotic is in relation to an insole… An orthotic, by nature, is ‘corrective’. As it corrects for some sort of abnormality.
Let’s say you overpronate. An orthotic may have a deep heel cup and rigid edge to prevent the foot from rolling over and pronating. Without the orthotic, the foot will continue to move in a non-ideal fashion.
On the other hand, an insole is more accommodative. It may just have a bit of cushion on it, like Dr. Scholl’s, to relieve pressure off certain areas. They do not ‘correct’ for any issue pertaining to the foot or body. For this reason, most insoles are not covered by insurance, as they don’t have a medical need besides offering cushion.
| Feature | Orthotics (Custom) | Insoles (over-the-counter) |
| fit | Made just for your feet | Generic sizes |
| purpose | Address specific issues | General comfort |
| cost | $200+ | $10-$80 |
| Durability | 3-5 year or more | 6 months |
| effectiveness | Very effective for conditions | Limited use for severe issues |
Comparison versus non-custom orthotic
Custom orthotics differ from off-the-shelf or OTC orthotics in that they are made specifically for your feet shape, gait, and conditions. To produce a custom orthotic, a doctor will likely take a cast of your foot and write a prescription which will indicate what ‘corrections’ to put on the orthotic, and any other customizations such as top layer material or sport preference.
On the other hand over-the-counter insoles, like ones you might find at a drug store, are more one-size-fits all. They might have a few different options, depending on your arch height, but besides that they are generally made for the ‘average person’.
Why get Custom Orthotics
1: Personalized to you
Because custom orthotics are designed specifically for your feet, the support and comfort isn’t going to be rivaled with OTC insoles or generic orthotics. By taking factors into consideration such as your foot shape, gait pattern, activity level, weight distribution, a doctor can match the orthotic to your specific needs. This leads to better outcomes over the less personalized options.
For example, let’s say you are a runner who also happens to underpronate. A doctor may decide to put in a deep heel cup to stabilize the foot, but also not put in a top layer so there is a maximum energy transfer. Such a specific case requires too specific an orthotic for it to be worth it financially for a mass produced product.
2: Relief for specific conditions
Orthotics are great options for those suffering from conditions like flat feet, plantar fasciitis, arthritis, sesamoiditis, over-pronation, or pains in specific parts of the foot. Such conditions require specific ‘corrections’ that optimize the orthotic for the condition it is focusing on.
For example, if you have plantar fasciitis, you’ll want something too offload pressure from the plantar fascia. Because all of our foot shapes are different, you’ll need a custom orthotic so a medical professional can locate your fasciia band and build the orthotic for you.
3: Durability
Custom orthotics are made of higher quality materials such as TPU or polyurethane. Such materials last in the range of multiple years, as opposed to insoles which can last in the range of months. While there might be a higher initial cost, over time it actually becomes cheaper than insoles.
Why not get custom orthotics?
Cost
Custom orthotics can cost upwards of $1000 USD, with a median price of about $400 (However, Stride Soles only costs a fraction of that). Even if they are more durable, such a large sticker shock makes them very cost prohibitive. Additionally, it can be difficult to get insurance to pay for your orthotics, so unless you can make an effective case, you’ll be paying for that out of pocket.
Adjustment Period
It’s important to note that custom orthotics have a ‘break in period’ as your body gets used to the positive changes brought on by the orthotics. This can last upwards of two weeks and can be uncomfortable at first. If you are looking for immediate relief, custom orthotics may not be worth it.
Not being necessary
If you are just looking for some basic cushion in your shoes, OTC insoles might be fine. The advantages of custom orthotics might be overkill for your specific needs. If you are on the fence, consult with your local podiatrist, physical therapist, or schedule a telemedicine appointment with Stride Soles.
Are custom orthotics worth it for ME?
This is a deeply personal decision, however let’s try to set up some scenarios.
1: If you tried insoles or even OTC orthotics and they didn’t work.
Custom orthotics are really the next step before moving on to talks of surgery or other more invasive methods. If other insoles aren’t working, definitely give orthotics a try.
2: You have a specific condition
For example, if you have flat feet, custom orthotics can do wonders to reduce pain and pronation. For someone with Plantar Fasciitis, it can also really help distribute pressure away from the plantar fascia. However, custom orthotics are not only used for pain relief, but also injury prevention,posture improvement, and athletic performance.
3: You are willing to pay more
At the end of the day, custom orthotics are more effective and do last longer. If you have the extra money, it makes sense to just go with the better product first. Why get a Toyota if you know you want a BMW, right?
Conclusion
I hope this article has helped you decide if custom orthotics are right for you. If you have any questions regarding the topic, please feel free to book a time with one of Stride’s medical professionals and we will dive into your individual case.
