Does this sound familiar? You’ve been dealing with persistent foot pain, and those store-bought insoles from the pharmacy seemed like a smart solution at first. Maybe they even helped for a few weeks. But now you’re back to wincing with each step, wondering if there’s a better answer out there.
You’re not alone. Many of our patients tried the over-the-counter route before discovering the difference custom orthotics could make. Let’s walk through what you need to know when deciding between continuing with store-bought insoles or taking the step toward custom orthotics.
The Store-Bought Experience: Why It May Not Be Enough
We get it – store-bought insoles are convenient. They’re right there at the pharmacy, relatively affordable, and promise quick relief. But here’s what many people discover:
- That initial comfort often fades within weeks
- The one-size-fits-most approach means they’re not addressing your specific foot structure
- You might find yourself buying new pairs frequently as they wear down
- The underlying cause of your foot pain remains unaddressed
Think of it like buying reading glasses from a drugstore versus getting prescription lenses. Sure, the drugstore glasses might help you read, but they’re not correcting your specific vision needs.
Custom Orthotics: What Makes Them Different?
Custom orthotics aren’t just thicker or more expensive versions of store-bought insoles. Here’s what actually happens when you get custom orthotics:
- Professional Assessment: A podiatrist examines not just your feet, but your entire walking pattern and lifestyle needs
- Precise Measurements: Advanced scanning technology creates an exact 3D model of your feet
- Tailored Design: Your orthotics are crafted to address your specific foot structure and the root cause of your pain
- Pathology specific: Orthotic prescription based off your current condition and presenting symptoms
- Quality Materials: Medical-grade materials are selected based on your activity level and needs
- Made in Australia: Unlike over the counter insoles which are mass produced offshore, custom made orthotics are made in Australia, with someone checking the process every step of the way including finishing touches.
When It’s Time to Consider Custom Orthotics
You might be ready for custom orthotics if:
- You’ve tried multiple pairs of store-bought insoles without lasting relief
- Your foot pain is affecting your daily activities or exercise routine
- You’re spending money repeatedly on replacement insoles
- You have specific foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or high arches
- Your foot pain is causing knee, hip, or back discomfort
Common Concerns About Making the Switch
We often hear these concerns from patients considering custom orthotics:
“Aren’t they expensive?” While the upfront cost is higher than store-bought insoles, custom orthotics typically last several years with proper care. Many health insurance plans offer coverage, and when you factor in the cost of repeatedly buying store-bought insoles, custom orthotics often prove more economical in the long run.
“Will they really make a difference?” Research supports the effectiveness of custom orthotics for many foot conditions. Multiple studies have shown that custom orthotics can help reduce pain and improve mobility for patients with specific foot problems like plantar fasciitis and flat feet1-3.
“Is the process complicated?” Getting custom orthotics is straightforward:
- Initial consultation (30 minutes)
- Foot assessment and measurements
- Custom fabrication (typically 2 weeks)
- Fitting and adjustment if needed
- Follow-up to ensure optimal results
Cost
- Biomechanical assessment $160
- 3D scan of both feet $60
- One pair of custom orthotics, including fitting appointment $560
- Two pairs of custom orthotics including all appointment fees $1180
You can also take advantage of your private health insurance and our second-pair discounts and get additional pairs each year for different shoes or activities when it resets annually.
Taking the Next Step
If you’re tired of temporary solutions and ready for lasting relief, we’re here to help. At The Foot Hub, our experienced podiatrists will assess your specific needs and help you understand if custom orthotics are right for you.
Book a consultation today to discover how custom orthotics could make a difference in your daily comfort and mobility. Call us at 02 8096 4763 or book online.
References
- A 2020 systematic review published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research found that custom foot orthoses were effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with plantar fasciitis, particularly in the medium term (6-12 months) [Whittaker et al., 2020].
- Research in the Clinical Research on Foot & Ankle journal showed that custom foot orthoses significantly reduced foot pain and improved function in patients with flexible flat feet over a 12-week period [Xu et al., 2019].
- A study in the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation demonstrated that custom orthotics helped reduce pain by 34% in patients with chronic foot pain after 12 weeks of use [Moisan & Cantin, 2016]
