This is Why You Shouldn’t Buy Orthotics at the Store

Your feet do a lot. And because of this, sometimes they can need some extra support. That’s where orthotics come in. Orthotics — which you slip into your shoes like inserts — can help your feet function the way they should and minimize everything from foot pain to mobility problems. 

That’s why our team at Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center offers custom orthotics. With our state-of-the-art 3-D scanner and extensive orthotics expertise, we can create the right orthotics for your unique feet. 

And while that might sound like more work than buying shoe inserts at the store, the extra effort can pay off. That’s why we’ve written this guide to help you understand why our orthotics outperform store-bought options. 

Orthotics vs. inserts

First, it’s important to distinguish between orthotics and inserts. People often think they’re one and the same, but orthotics are specifically designed to correct foot issues, while inserts generally just add a little more cushioning to the bottom of the shoe. We offer orthotics, while store options are generally just inserts. 

Another key difference is the longevity of these two choices. Inserts generally last about six months, while orthotics can last for years. 

More importantly, though, orthotics can correct foot problems, while inserts usually only make your shoes a little more comfortable. Here at Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center, we design orthotics that specifically fit your feet and correct your specific issues. 

With a store-bought option, you get a one-size-fits-all insert. In fact, because they aren’t tailored to your feet, these inserts can actually exacerbate podiatric problems and cause additional issues, such as ankle pain and blisters. 

What our orthotics can do for you

When you choose to get orthotics from our team, we start the process by getting a precise picture of your foot using our leading-edge 3-D scanner and gait sensor. That way, we can tailor your orthotics to deliver precisely what your foot needs while giving you the most comfortable fit possible.

We offer two types of orthotics: functional and accommodative orthotics. Functional orthotics can treat foot and ankle conditions and alleviate specific symptoms by changing the way your foot and ankle move as you walk, run, and jump. 

Accommodative orthotics provide cushioning and support to help ease discomfort for people with issues like corns. 

Whichever type of orthotics you need, don’t settle for store-bought inserts that could make your foot problems worse. To get started with orthotics made just for you, book an appointment online or over the phone with Arizona Foot and Ankle Medical Center today.