Custom Orthotics in Salt Lake City: Do They Really Work?
Custom Orthotics
Custom orthotics can help reduce heel pain, arch pain, bunion discomfort, arthritis pain, and chronic foot fatigue by improving support and foot mechanics.
If you are dealing with foot pain while walking, standing, exercising, or working, custom orthotics may help address the underlying cause of your symptoms instead of only masking the pain.
At Salt Lake City Podiatry, Dr. Zak Oddone creates custom foot orthotics designed around your feet, your diagnosis, your shoes, and your activity level.
What Are Custom Orthotics?
Custom orthotics are prescription shoe inserts made specifically for your feet. Unlike store-bought inserts, they are designed using a foot and ankle evaluation, gait assessment, and digital foot scan.
They are commonly used to improve alignment, reduce pressure points, support the arch, and decrease stress on joints, tendons, and ligaments.
Conditions That May Benefit From Custom Orthotics
- Plantar fasciitis
- Heel pain
- Flat feet
- High arches
- Bunions
- Arthritis
- Ball of foot pain
- Morton’s neuroma
- Achilles tendon pain
- Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction
- Sports-related foot pain
- Diabetic pressure areas
Custom Orthotics vs. Store-Bought Inserts
Over-the-counter inserts can be helpful for many patients, and we often recommend them when appropriate. However, store-bought inserts are made for the average foot. Custom orthotics are made specifically for your foot structure and medical condition.
What Is the Process?
- Foot and ankle examination
- Review of symptoms, shoes, and activity level
- Gait and biomechanics evaluation
- Digital foot scan
- Prescription sent to a specialized orthotic lab
- Custom fabrication
- Fitting appointment with break-in instructions
How Long Do Custom Orthotics Last?
Most custom orthotics last several years depending on activity level, body weight, shoe type, and daily use. Many patients wear them every day for walking, work, exercise, and general support.
Will Insurance Cover Custom Orthotics?
Insurance coverage varies by plan. Some plans cover custom orthotics, while others consider them a non-covered benefit. Our office can help review your benefits when possible before ordering.
Do Orthotics Cure Foot Problems?
Orthotics do not permanently change the structure of your foot, but they can reduce abnormal forces that contribute to pain. They are often most effective when combined with supportive shoes, stretching, strengthening, and other conservative treatments.
Why Choose Salt Lake City Podiatry?
Dr. Zak Oddone evaluates each patient individually to determine whether custom orthotics are truly the best option. Not every patient needs custom devices, and some may do well with high-quality over-the-counter inserts instead.
Our goal is to recommend the right level of support for your condition, lifestyle, and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Custom Orthotics
Are custom orthotics worth it?
For many patients with chronic foot pain, recurring symptoms, or abnormal foot mechanics, custom orthotics can provide long-term relief and improved function.
Does insurance cover custom orthotics?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. Some plans cover custom orthotics, while others consider them non-covered. Our office can help check benefits when possible.
How long do custom orthotics last?
Most custom orthotics last several years, depending on activity level, shoe type, body weight, and how often they are worn.
Can I move orthotics between shoes?
Yes. Most patients can transfer them between athletic shoes, walking shoes, and work shoes. Some dress shoes may require a thinner orthotic design.
Can I wear custom orthotics in dress shoes?
Sometimes. Dress shoes usually have less room, so a thinner or more specialized orthotic may be needed.
How long does it take to get used to orthotics?
Most patients adjust over one to three weeks by gradually increasing wear time each day.
Do orthotics help plantar fasciitis?
Yes, orthotics are commonly used for plantar fasciitis because they help support the arch and reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
Do I need new orthotics every year?
Not usually. Many custom orthotics last multiple years. They should be checked if your pain returns, your foot structure changes, or the devices become worn down.
What is the difference between custom orthotics and store-bought inserts?
Store-bought inserts are made for general support. Custom orthotics are made specifically for your feet, diagnosis, activity level, and treatment goals.
How do I clean custom orthotics?
Most orthotics can be wiped with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid soaking them in water or placing them in a washing machine or dryer.
Schedule a Custom Orthotics Evaluation
If you have heel pain, arch pain, bunion pain, arthritis, or chronic foot discomfort, schedule an evaluation at Salt Lake City Podiatry.
Salt Lake City Podiatry
1220 East 3900 South, Suite 4D
Salt Lake City, UT 84124
Phone: (801) 269-9939
