To assist with the care of your new foot device, we recommend the following:

Break In Period

In most cases your pedorthist will recommended you break in your orthotics gradually, i.e. for 1-2 hours of standing or the first day, and increase the wearing time by 1-2 hours each day. If you find this too quick for your feet or body, your pedorthist may recommend that you try increasing your time in your orthotics more slowly.

Break in time is not the same for everyone. Some people, in particularly children, find that they can wear their orthotics for longer periods during the break in phase, while others may experience discomfort if they push it too quickly. Let your body guide you.

Sports & Orthotics

We advise you to refrain from vigorous sports until you are completely comfortable wearing your orthotics for at least a full day of regular wear. Wearing them for a minimum of 8 hours in comfort is a good indication that your muscles are adapting well to their new position.

When you first start wearing your orthotics for sports, you should be aware that you must also break them in gradually at this time too. Breaking them in gradually allows your feet to adapt to a different functioning posture, and for you skin to toughen up in areas where they may previously not have been touching anything (and are now in contact with the orthotics).

Cleaning your Orthotics

Your orthotics may be cleaned gently with soap and lukewarm water (not to hot as high levels of heat can damage them).

Just make sure your orthotics are completely dry before inserting into your shoes to reduce the likely hood of bacteria and mold developing.

If your orthotics smell or you are developing smelly feet, it may be sign there is an imbalance in skin bacteria. This is especially common if your feet perspire a lot. If this is the case, it might be worth checking in with your pedorthist to see what your options are.

Blisters

Orthotic blisters are uncommon and generally occur in people who normally get blisters. The good news is that they can generally be prevented. If these occur or cause problems, let your pedorthist know, as they most likely will be able to help out.

Shoes & Socks

There's an old saying that says your orthotics are only as good as the shoes you wear them. If you have any questions, your pedorthist is more than happy to discuss what types of shoes you should wear with your orthotics!

Socks

If possible it is generally advised to wear socks or stocking with your orthotics (especially during the break in period). If you're someone who likes to wear your orthotics in shoes without socks, make sure you gently clean them regularly.

Heel slipping when walking

Some shoe designs are too low cut at the heel to wear orthotics with, which is why you should bring your orthotics with you when you go shoe shopping. If there are shoes you already have that are slipping, it is worth mentioning to your pedorthist, as they may be able to thin your orthotics for fit.

Buying shoes for orthotics

It is important to try on new shoes with your orthotics prior to purchasing them, especially running shoes. Avoid designs that do not have a method of securing the shoe close to your foot, such as a strap or a lace.

Squeaking

if the orthotics cause an audible squeaking in your shoes, try wiping the edges of the device with the small amount of talcum powder. If this doesn't work, let us know and we can try a few of our tricks to sort it out.

Aching Feet

In rare cases, aching may be felt in the initial break in period. In most cases, this a simply the muscles and joints of the feet getting used to working in a new way - a better way! This aching can be a sign of  your body getting used to your new biomechanics (the way you move). If discomfort occurs, do not become discouraged, as these are signs that postural adaptations are occurring, and generally for the better. It might just mean that you have to break them in slower or that you need to get them fine tuned or modified by your pedorthist for comfort. If pain persists for more than two weeks, contact your pedorthist.