A custom foot orthotic is a custom molded device made from a variety of materials, ranging from rigid plastics to soft foams.  It is designed to support the arches of your foot and redistribute your weight to different areas to prevent excessive pressure.  It may also correct mild alignment problems. 

The following instructions were designed to help you properly clean, care for, and use your new custom foot orthotics.  Please read these instructions carefully and let your orthotist know if you have any questions.  Compliance with your health care providers’ instructions is essential for the effective use of this device.  Be sure to follow any special instructions given to you by your physician or orthotist, in addition to those provided here.    

Wearing Instructions

Day 1:  It is important to break into your new orthotics gradually in order to avoid injury and irritation.  On the first day of wear, check your feet periodically for redness or pressure areas.  It’s easy to wear your orthotics for too long on the first day without realizing it.  Your body is adjusting to a new position, which can affect your arches, knees, hips, or back.  In order to avoid injury or irritation, wear your orthotics for only 1 to 2 hours.

Day 2:  Now that you have a feel for your new orthotics, increase the wearing period to 2 hours at a time, with 2 hour resting periods in between.  Monitor your feet for redness or irritation.

Day 3:  Let your comfort level be your guide.  Everyone has a different tolerance level.  Continue to increase the wear of your new orthotics each day, while monitoring your feet for soreness or redness.  Use caution during high impact activities such as running and aerobics, to avoid injury or irritation. 

Care of Your New Orthotics

Hand wash your orthotics with mild soap and water.  Never machine wash them.

Potential Risks & Precautions

If you experience any discomfort from your orthotics after two weeks, call our office to schedule a follow-up appointment.  Be sure to bring your new orthotics to your appointment, so we can examine them for possible adjustments.

For medical emergencies, call 911 or your local hospital.