Certain biomechanical issues create discomfort while you walk, stand or run. Orthotics are used to address such issues and redistribute the support underneath your feet. In simple words, orthotics correct function of the feet just as prescription glasses address the lack of optimum functioning of the eyes..
Unlike glasses that are only available on prescription, you can get orthotics that are either off-the-shelf or custom-made for you.
You must be wondering if non-custom orthotic insoles are available easily, then why do people pay for custom orthotics and what is the reason behind putting in effort to find custom-made inserts? Is it really worth it or is it just a waste of time and money to get customised insoles?
Let’s discuss the difference between the two varieties of orthotic insoles and find out which one is the right choice for your foot condition.
Quality standards
Non-custom orthotics are made from cheaper material with lesser shelf life. The usual options are rubber and silicone in over the counter insoles. On the other hand, custom orthotics are thoughtfully designed to address your feet issues and therefore only the best quality raw material is used to provide long-term relief from foot pain. The ideal choices for custom-made orthotics are leather, cork, carbon fibre and polypropylene.
Value for money
As discussed above, over the counter insoles are made from cheaper quality material. They are more prone to wear and tear and you will end up buying another pair after some time. The value for money performance of prefabricated insoles is not that impressive when compared to custom-made orthotics. These are made from high-grade material and are considered a reliable and long term sore feet treatment.
Cost
Non-custom orthotics are manufactured in bulk therefore these are available at an affordable price range. On the other hand, if a podiatrist is customising orthotics especially for you, they will definitely charge you a higher premium.
Depending on the cost, some might like to go with the cheaper option of off-the-shelf insoles. However, if you look at the bigger picture, you may only be wasting your money in buying non-custom orthotics because the product might not be as functional as custom-made products are.
Insurance coverage
Buying orthotic shoes or custom-made insoles may feel expensive therefore people tend to incline toward the cheaper options. However, you don’t really have to burn a hole in your pocket when it comes to foot pain treatment.
People often overlook that podiatry services are eligible for health insurance rebates in many schemes. Consult with your GP and make an appointment with a podiatrist to get custom made orthotics at a fraction of the price. You can enjoy insurance coverage on custom made orthotics, whereas you have to pay the full price for over-the-counter orthotics which are generally not as effective and may require replacing every three to four months.
Fit
Thanks to global brands, prefabricated arch support insoles are easily available. You buy a pair and trim it down to the size that makes the fit comfortable for your shoes. However, off-the-shelf insoles may not fit perfectly in some of your shoes. You may find difficulty in finding the perfect fit in all of your footwear.
Prefabricated insoles are not meant to fit perfectly in every pair of shoes you own. On the other hand, custom made orthotics are manufactured exactly according to the foot shape and they work wonders when it comes to a comfortable fit. Your feet never feel cramped and none of the shoes feels loose with customised orthotics because the design and dimensions are exactly as per your feet. A good podiatrist will also ask you to bring in the shoes that you want to wear regularly to check the orthotics will fit correctly in them.
Usefulness
Over the counter inserts can be useful in treating discomfort around the heels. There are some ready to use arch support available that might address minor issues of flat feet or over arched feet. However, the comfort and relief provided by prefabricated insoles is limited,
whereas, investing in custom made orthotics provides absolute supporting a variety of foot ailments, such as foot deformities, ankle function, ankle support, injuries, back pain, arthritis, flat feet, high arches, hammer toes, heel spurs, bunions, plantar fasciitis etc.
Final verdict
Over the counter shoe inserts are a cheaper option if you want to alleviate the pressure during a long day at work. Inexpensive shoe inserts are only useful for addressing minor discomfort; these are not very effective in treating severe levels of pain and soreness. For an assured treatment of a variety of foot conditions, investing in custom-made orthotic insoles makes the most sense. When compared to over the counter inserts, custom orthotics are way better in terms of fit, quality, durability and value for money. Moreover, you can even claim health insurance rebates on custom orthotics which is not an option for prefabricated insoles.
Schedule an appointment with the footwear specialists at Suncoast Podiatry. People searching for a podiatrist on the Sunshine Coast with a DVA footwear prescription can find high quality custom made orthotics at Suncoast Podiatry.
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