How to Know If Your Orthotics Are Working (and When to Call Your Podiatrist)
- Dr. Hang Campbell
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
When you first get orthotics, it’s normal to wonder, “Are these actually working?” You’ve invested time and money into your foot health, and you want to be sure your new inserts are doing what they’re supposed to do—support your feet, improve alignment, and reduce pain over time.
At Premier Podiatry Associates, we walk patients through what a normal break‑in period looks like and what warning signs mean it’s time to adjust your devices. Understanding the difference can help you get the most out of your orthotics and avoid giving up too soon.
What You Should Feel in the First 1–2 Weeks
Most patients notice that orthotics feel “different” in their shoes right away, and that’s expected. You are changing how your feet, ankles, and legs line up, so your body needs a little time to adapt.
During the first week or two, it is common to notice:
Mild muscle fatigue in your feet, calves, or legs as your alignment improves.
Awareness of the arch or heel cup pressing in new areas.
Slight soreness that fades as you gradually increase your wear time.
We typically recommend starting with one to two hours per day and adding an hour or two each day as long as you stay comfortable. This slow and steady approach gives your body time to adjust to the new support without overloading your joints and soft tissues.
Positive Signs Your Orthotics Are Helping
Once you get past the initial “getting used to it” phase, there are several good signs that your orthotics are doing their job.
You may notice:
Less heel or arch pain when you get out of bed in the morning.
Less burning, aching, or throbbing in your feet after work or activity.
Improved comfort when standing for long periods.
Fewer “flare‑ups” of knee, hip, or lower back pain after walking.
Better balance or feeling more stable in your shoes.
Improvements can be gradual, and many patients see the biggest changes over several weeks to a few months. It can help to pay attention to simple benchmarks—how far you can walk, how long you can stand, or how your feet feel after a normal workday.
When Discomfort Is NOT Normal
While some mild adjustment discomfort is expected, there are certain symptoms that are not normal and should not be ignored. These may mean your orthotics need to be adjusted, modified, or occasionally remade.
Call your podiatrist if you notice:
Sharp, pinpoint pain in a specific spot (especially if it is new).
Blisters, open areas, or significant redness that lasts more than 30 minutes after removing your shoes.
Pain that is clearly worse with orthotics than without, even after the first two weeks.
Numbness, tingling, or “pins and needles” in your toes or forefoot.
A change in your gait that makes you feel unstable or off‑balance.
Orthotics should work with your feet, not against them. If something feels wrong, it is much better to come in for a quick adjustment than to stop wearing them altogether and lose the potential benefits.
Common Reasons Orthotics Need an Adjustment
Even with a careful evaluation, your podiatrist may need to fine‑tune your devices once you start using them in real life. That’s completely normal and often part of the process.
Some common reasons orthotics require follow‑up:
Shoe mismatch: Wearing them in shoes that are too narrow, too flexible, or too worn out can reduce their effectiveness and cause pressure spots.
Activity changes: If you start a new job, begin a walking program, or increase your sports training, your needs can shift.
Foot changes: Weight changes, injuries, or surgery can affect how your orthotics interact with your feet.
Normal wear: Over time, even high‑quality orthotics can compress or wear down and may need refurbishing or replacement.
At follow‑up visits, we typically check your gait, look at wear patterns on the devices, and ask targeted questions about where and when you notice discomfort. Small modifications—like adding or removing padding, adjusting posting, or changing the top cover—can make a big difference in comfort.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Orthotics
To maximize the benefits of your orthotics, think of them as part of a bigger foot‑health plan, not a stand‑alone solution.
A few practical tips:
Wear them consistently in supportive shoes, not just occasionally.
Replace worn‑out shoes, especially if the soles are uneven or the heel counters are collapsed.
Follow any stretching or strengthening plan your podiatrist recommends (for example, calf and hamstring stretches or foot‑intrinsic exercises).
Bring your orthotics to each appointment so they can be inspected and adjusted if needed.
Let your provider know about any new symptoms as soon as you notice them.
When you use your orthotics consistently and pair them with good footwear and the right home exercises, they can help protect your feet, reduce pain, and support healthier movement for the long term.
When to Schedule a Follow‑Up Visit
You should schedule a follow‑up appointment if:
It has been more than six to twelve months since your orthotics were checked.
Your pain has returned or changed location.
You have started a new job or activity that significantly changes how long you’re on your feet.
Your shoes or orthotics show obvious wear or feel less supportive.
You are unsure whether what you’re feeling is “normal.”
Your podiatrist’s goal is the same as yours: to help you walk, work, and play with as little discomfort as possible. A quick visit can ensure your orthotics are still doing their job and keep small problems from becoming bigger issues.
Ready to Check In on Your Orthotics?
If you’re unsure whether your orthotics are working as well as they should—or you’re curious whether orthotics might help with your foot, knee, or back pain—this is a great time to schedule a visit.
Contact Premier Podiatry Associates to book an evaluation or follow‑up appointment. We’ll review how your orthotics are performing, look at your overall foot health, and make a plan to keep you comfortably moving forward week after week.
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