9+ Best Shoes For Orthotics | Unrivaled Guide 2024

Your shoes can have a significant impact on your overall health, affecting your posture and causing structural issues. The wrong footwear can be a real pain, especially for walkers, runners, and theme-park enthusiasts. That’s why orthopedic shoes are so important, offering the necessary support and cushioning to keep feet happy and bodies healthy.

Orthopedic shoes are designed with intentional arch support, targeted cushioning, and enough room for custom orthotics. Everyone has different footwear needs, so we’ve rounded up some of the best orthopedic shoes to provide support, comfort, and stability for your feet, no matter your lifestyle.

Best Shoes For Orthotics 2024

Orthopedic running shoes are usually wide. With so many wide-width running shoes on the market, it can be difficult to choose the right one.

After testing many running shoes that fit orthotics well, we have selected the best models from a variety of categories to help all runners.

Also Read: Best Shoes For Foot Pain

9+ Best Shoes For Orthotics | Comparison Table 2024

Top Quality | 5- Star Picks | Great Prices

9+ Top Shoes For Orthotics | Reviews 2024

1. Casual Best Shoes For Orthotics

Product Overview

2. Ryka Influence Cross 

Product Overview:

3. Saucony Women's Cohesion 

Product Overview:

The Saucony Women's Cohesion 10 Running Shoe is a reliable and well-regarded choice for women who enjoy running and other athletic activities. This model, available in grey, teal, and citron, continues Saucony's legacy of delivering high-performance footwear, boasting over ten iterations and a dedicated fan base.

Key Features

The Cohesion 10 is designed with a lace-up closure, textile upper, and a padded collar and tongue for enhanced comfort. It has a lightweight construction, weighing between 6-10 oz, and a durable outsole that ensures good traction and stability on various surfaces.

Benefits

This shoe provides a comfortable and supportive fit, ideal for runners of all skill levels. Its lightweight design and durable outsole contribute to both performance and longevity, making it a valuable addition to any runner’s gear.

Comfort and Fit

The padded collar and tongue, along with the lace-up design, offer a snug yet comfortable fit. The lightweight construction ensures that the shoe feels cushioned without being overly bulky.

Arch Support

The Cohesion 10 includes adequate arch support to help maintain proper alignment and reduce strain during runs, accommodating different foot shapes and running styles.

Adjustability

The lace-up closure allows for a customizable fit, enabling adjustments based on personal comfort preferences and foot shape.

Durability and Quality

Saucony's commitment to quality is evident in the Cohesion 10’s durable outsole and construction, which stand up to regular use and various running conditions, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Fit and Sizing

The Cohesion 10 is available in a wide range of sizes, including size 8. It is important to refer to Saucony's sizing guide to ensure the best fit, considering that shoe sizes may vary.

Breathability

The textile upper contributes to breathability, helping to keep feet cool and dry during intense physical activities.

Style and Design

With its sleek design and available color options, the Cohesion 10 combines style with functionality, making it an attractive choice for both casual and serious runners

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4. ASICS Gel-Venture 

Product Overview:

The ASICS Gel-Venture® 6 is a high-performance running shoe designed for both men and women. Featuring a black, island blue, and pink colorway in a size 8.5 B (M), this shoe is imported and built to deliver exceptional performance and comfort.

Key Features

• Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System: Absorbs shock during impact and ensures a smooth transition to midstance.
• Trail Specific Outsole: Offers excellent traction on various terrains with reversed lugs for uphill and downhill stability.
• AHAR Outsole: Made from ASICS High Abrasion Rubber, enhancing durability in critical areas.

Benefits
The ASICS Gel-Venture® 6 provides a blend of comfort, durability, and traction, making it ideal for diverse running conditions. Its cushioning system and durable outsole cater to both casual runners and those tackling more challenging trails.

Comfort and Fit
This shoe is designed with comfort in mind, featuring the Rearfoot GEL Cushioning System that softens impacts. The fit is tailored to provide support while accommodating various foot shapes.

Arch Support
The ASICS Gel-Venture® 6 offers adequate arch support suitable for a range of foot types, promoting stability and reducing strain during runs.

Adjustability
The removable sock liner allows for customization, enabling the use of medical orthotics if needed, enhancing the shoe’s adaptability to individual requirements.

Durability and Quality
ASICS is renowned for its high-quality footwear, and the Gel-Venture® 6 is no exception. The AHAR Outsole ensures longevity by resisting wear and tear, even on rugged terrains.

Fit and Sizing
Available in a range of sizes, including the specified 8.5 B (M), the ASICS Gel-Venture® 6 is designed to offer a secure fit. It is recommended to try on the shoe or refer to size guides to ensure the best fit for your foot.

Breathability
While the shoe does not highlight specific breathability features, its design is engineered to manage moisture and maintain comfort during extended wear.

Style and Design
The ASICS Gel-Venture® 6 combines functionality with style, featuring a sleek colorway of black, island blue, and pink. Its design is both visually appealing and practical, fitting well with various athletic and casual outfits.

5. Merrell Women's Moab Vent 

Product Overview:

6. HOKA ONE ONE Mach 

Product Overview:

Also Read: Best Shoes For Osteoarthritis 

7. Brooks Mens Adrenaline

Product Overview:

The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 is a highly sought-after running shoe that has earned a reputation as a favorite among runners. Designed to offer a perfect balance of support and softness, it’s ideal for both everyday runs and those seeking soft landings.

Key Features
The Adrenaline GTS 22 features medium support and cushioning, highlighted by Brooks' GuideRails technology. This innovative system helps keep your foot in its natural position, minimizing the risk of injuries. The shoe boasts an updated midsole with 100% DNA LOFT cushioning for a plush, smooth ride.

Benefits
The combination of GuideRails technology and DNA LOFT cushioning provides a high level of comfort while maintaining support. This setup helps reduce the likelihood of injury and ensures a smoother running experience.

Comfort and Fit
With its soft midsole and Segmented Crash Pad, the Adrenaline GTS 22 offers exceptional comfort. The shoe promotes an easy transition from landing to toe-off, enhancing overall comfort and supporting a consistent stride.

Arch Support
The GuideRails technology offers moderate arch support, aligning your foot in a natural position and aiding in injury prevention.

Adjustability
While the Adrenaline GTS 22 doesn’t feature adjustable elements, its structured design ensures a secure fit for various foot shapes and sizes.

Durability and Quality
The shoe is built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity even with regular use. The construction and cushioning are designed to withstand the demands of daily running.

Fit and Sizing
The Brooks Adrenaline GTS 22 typically fits true to size, offering a comfortable fit for most runners. The 10.5 D - Medium size option caters to a wide range of foot widths, ensuring a snug yet accommodating fit.

Breathability
The shoe’s design includes breathable materials that help regulate temperature and keep your feet cool during runs.

Style and Design
The GTS 22 Black/Black/Ebony colorway adds a sleek, stylish look to the shoe, making it not only functional but also visually appealing. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just starting out, this shoe combines performance with aesthetics.

8. ALTRA Men's AL0A4VQE Lone

Product Overview:

9. Nike ZoomX Invincible

Product Overview:

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How To Choose Best Shoes For Orthotics | Ultimate Guide 2024

Custom-made orthotics, orthopedic shoes, and modified shoes can be effective for certain medical conditions but are probably only really reliable for certain conditions, such as painful pes cavus (high arch of the foot). Others, even relatively obvious and common foot problems such as bunions (swelling on the outside where the big toe meets the foot), are less obvious. Prescription and skillful execution can help many, but not many.

Unfortunately, we can't rely on clever prescriptions! The science is complex and incomplete, with many dishonest and unscrupulous vendors prescribing these products for almost every problem, or no problem at all. For consumers, it is almost impossible to know if they really need these products, where they can get them prescribed, or if they can get a quality product from a specialist.

It is good to have a more reliable source for these services and products. Certified Prosthetists and Certified Orthotists (CO) are the professionals I recommend. Unfortunately, most consumers have never heard of them, don't know why they are the best choice or where to get them, and many therapists don't refer them because they want to sell orthotics.

Orthotic problems can be solved to a great extent if you don't set your expectations too high and, most importantly, talk to an orthopedist. That is the short story. However, this website needs to address these points in more detail.

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Choosing the right pair of shoes is essential to maximize the benefits of wearing orthotic devices. When searching for the best shoes to wear with orthotics, here are some important features to look for:

1. Rigid heel counter: Your shoes must have a firm heel to prevent your ankles from rolling or slipping away from the shoes. This feature keeps your feet in the right position and maximizes the support provided by your orthotic device.
2. Minimal torsion/twist: Choose shoes that don’t twist easily. Shoes that are too flexible won’t provide enough arch and base support for your feet.
3. Firm-density midsole: The midsole of your shoes plays a crucial role in supporting your orthotic device. Check if the midsole is soft enough to provide comfort, but not too soft that it compresses easily.
4. Wider foot support: Shoes with a wider footbed provide stronger foot support. This feature, combined with a customized foot device, will help you walk with greater ease and comfort.
5. Easy-to-remove footbed: If you’re using an accommodative orthotic device such as splints or AFOs, make sure your shoes come with an easy-to-remove insole or footbed. This provides enough room for your orthotic device and ensures a comfortable fit.
6. Wide toebox: Avoid narrow shoes as they can cause bunions and achy, and inflamed toes. A wide toebox provides enough space for your feet, especially when inserting the insole.
7. Low heel: For those wearing AFOs, it’s best to look for shoes with a low heel to ensure comfort while walking.
8. Sufficient shoe depth: Adequate shoe depth allows for easy fitting of your orthotic device and prevents your shoes from slipping off when running.

By keeping these features in mind, you can find the best shoes to complement your orthotic device and ensure maximum foot support and comfort.

let me explain few important features in detail;

Insoles

The biomechanics of the foot, ankle, knee, and hip are complex, very complex. It is not rocket science; it is much more difficult. Analyzing gait is a science comparable to art. This maze is far too much for the inexperienced. Orthodontic appliances should not be prescribed without a thorough examination, which in complex cases can take 30 minutes or more.

However, there are quacks in North America that sell orthodontic appliances in shopping malls with fancy displays and fun technology to "evaluate" and "scan" your feet with lasers and infrared rays, and I have experienced this myself here in Vancouver. These things distract from the fact that they lack real skill and knowledge.

Unfortunately, many of the insoles sold to consumers are worth no more than the clay molds from which they are made. As will be discussed below, the effectiveness of orthotics is uncertain no matter who prescribes them. An orthopedic surgeon or orthopedic technician is most likely to be able to issue an appropriate prescription. Only orthopedic technicians are trained in gait analysis, lower body anatomy, biomechanics, and how to effectively make custom orthotic insoles. Other specialists must order orthotics from outside vendors.

Cushioning

What happens when you add an over-cushion or structured insole to a running shoe?

If the existing (standard) insole is thinner than the new insole, the first sacrifice is internal space.

The thicker insole pushes the foot upward, increasing stiffness and creating discomfort that no one wants. There is also the danger of the foot being elevated in the shoe, causing the heel to slip and the instep to compress.

Over-the-counter and custom-made insoles fall into three categories: the first type is the cushioned foam or foam + gel insole; the second type is the cushioning foam or foam + gel insole; and the third type is the cushioning foam or foam + gel insole.

These insoles are designed to provide cushioning and optional arch support. The Spenco RX Comfort Insoles and Spenco Arch Cushion are examples of this design.

The second is a cushioned support insole. In this case, a soft foam base is layered on top of the support structure, usually in the middle of the foot and under the heel. This type of orthotic makes up the majority of aftermarket orthotics, such as Spenco's Total Support.

Orthotics for orthotics are the third type. If you are familiar with the famous Superfeet Green, you know what I am talking about.

In this case, a rigid nylon or TPE structure surrounds a foam layer. Technically speaking, the first two types of insoles are also functionally "corrective" in nature. In other words, the molded rigid structure is less malleable than the foam or gel-foam hybrid.

Within each category, insoles can be thick or thin. For example, Superfeet Carbon is an "orthopedic" insole by our definition, but its thinness allows it to fit most running shoes.

When combining shoes and insoles, certain points should be noted. With very few exceptions, most standard insoles that come with running shoes have no displacement between the heel and toe. The thickness of the insole is constant over its entire length and the insole is a "zero drop" component.

Also Read: Best Sandals For Cracked Heels

Repetitive strain injuries

Repetitive motion injuries (RSIs) are common and challenging and are probably the main reason many people wonder if they need orthotics. This is based on the misconception that RSI is caused by faulty biomechanics.

While biomechanics may have some influence, strangely enough, the main problem with most repetitive fatigue disorders is repetitive fatigue. This is the part of the body that can feel strained despite having impeccable biomechanics.

There are more specific factors, such as inherited repair mechanisms, that can get in the way of other factors. For example, some people get Achilles tendonitis from walking, while others can run marathons for decades without problems. These points are discussed in detail in my course on repetitive motion injuries. My point is that treating RSI with "biomechanical solutions" alone is never a good idea! That said, whether or not RSI can actually be cured with orthotics is more difficult than you might think.

Running & walking shoes 

Expensive running and walking shoes attempt to absorb shock in a variety of ways. There are also many models that "correct" or "compensate" for common biomechanical aspects such as pronation, as well as insoles. Most of these designs are supposedly based on preventing injury, and this hope underlies countless expensive and misleading shoes that offer no obvious benefit to the consumer. This is not surprising, first of all, because there is no clear link between running injuries and the anatomical features (pronation) that these shoes are designed to compensate for.

Despite high-end shoes, running injuries are just as common as they were 20 years ago, and the typical running shoe "recipe" we are given by "expert" shoe salespeople is not evidence-based at all.

Additional Tips When Buying The Best Shoes To Fit Orthotics

When shopping for the best shoes for orthotics online, you need to consider several factors to ensure that you get the perfect fit. Here are some practical shopping tips to help you find the right shoes for your orthotics:

1. Price isn't everything: Don't be fooled by the price tag when searching for the best sneakers for orthotics. A high price doesn't always guarantee quality, and there are plenty of reasonably priced options that work well with orthotics. Instead, focus on the specifications and quality of the shoe.
2. Double-check the product labels: Since you are shopping online, make sure to thoroughly check the product labels to ensure that the shoe specifications match those of your orthotic device. If you have any doubts, contact the customer support team for assistance.
3. Pay attention to the shape of the shoe: The shoe's shape is a crucial factor in ensuring your comfort. Make sure to read the product description carefully to ensure that the shoe's shape is similar to your foot shape.
4. Check the shoe sizing chart: Manufacturers may use different sizing standards, so make sure to compare their sizing charts before selecting a size.
5. Consider flexible fit options: Some manufacturers like Ziera and Revere offer specific options that come with the shoe, such as strap extensions, half inner soles, and fillers, to ensure a perfect fit with orthotics.
6. Fit the orthotic to the shoe: Take your orthotic to a shoe retailer and fit it to the shoe rather than the other way around. Once you've found a suitable shoe, you can go back to your podiatrist for any necessary adjustments.
7. Allow for an adjustment period: It may take up to six months to get used to your orthotics, so start with a sturdy lace-up shoe to test the fit. Once you feel comfortable, you can try different styles.
8. Keep the shoes in good condition: When trying on new shoes, avoid walking on dirty surfaces to keep the shoes clean and make it easier to exchange them for a different size if needed.

By following these practical tips, you can find the best shoes for orthotics online and enjoy the comfort and support you need for your feet.

How to test Orthotic shoes

The orthopedic running shoes included in this list were not chosen at random. We have tested them and checked them for recommendations.

Here are some of the measures we take

1. Buy shoes with your own money to avoid brand loyalty.
2. log 30-50 miles of testing.
3. Separate the different parts of the shoe
4. Measure each part of the shoe with 30 different parameters
5. Calculate the Corecore for each running shoe and compare its performance with other running shoes.

How to Pack Orthopedics Shoes

Now that you have found the right model for you, it is time to pack your orthopedic shoes for your next trip. First, choose a container such as a shoe bag or packing cube and pack it according to the type of luggage you are packing.

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Best Shoes For Orthotics | Video Explanation

FAQs

What is the difference between orthotic shoes and orthopedic shoes?

Orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts that work to bring your foot into proper alignment. They can be either custom-made or purchased over the counter. On the other hand, orthopedic shoes are specifically designed to provide support to your feet and legs while relieving pain. You can purchase these shoes from a podiatrist or off the shelf. Regardless of whether you need custom orthotics or orthopedic shoes, both can help address foot problems and alleviate pain. It's important to consult a podiatrist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.

What Type Of Shoe Is Best For Orthotics?

The best type of shoe for orthotics depends on the individual's specific foot condition and the type of orthotic they are using. However, in general, shoes that have a removable insole and provide good support, stability, and cushioning are good choices.

Athletic shoes, walking shoes, and casual shoes are typically designed with these features in mind and may be good options for individuals using orthotics. Look for shoes with a wide toe box, as this will allow for proper placement of the orthotic and prevent pressure points or discomfort.

It's important to consult with a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist to determine the best type of orthotic and shoe for your specific needs. They can help you select a shoe that is appropriate for your foot condition and orthotic, ensuring optimal comfort and support.

Who Needs Orthotics?

The supply far exceeds the actual demand. However, orthotics are most effective for four common conditions.

• Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammation of the sole of the foot, which is most easily identified by early morning pain.
• Osteoarthritis, which often develops in the ankles.
• Diabetes mellitus affects the blood flow to the feet and requires a change of shoes or custom-made shoes.
• Hallux valgus, which causes pain in the bones and joints of the forefoot.
• Other conditions such as patellofemoral pain, tibial syndrome, Achilles tendonitis,[4] bursitis, diabetes mellitus, and numerous other systemic diseases affecting lower extremity function.

Can Orthotics Be Worn In Any Shoe?

While orthotics can technically be worn in any shoe, not all shoes may be suitable for use with orthotics. Shoes that are too narrow or shallow may not have enough room to accommodate an orthotic, which can cause discomfort, pressure points, or alter the function of the orthotic. In addition, some shoe styles, such as high heels or sandals, may not provide adequate support and stability to work effectively with orthotics.

Shoes with a removable insole are typically a good choice for use with orthotics, as they provide enough depth and room to accommodate the orthotic while maintaining proper support and stability. Athletic shoes, walking shoes, and casual shoes are often designed with a removable insole and may be good choices for individuals using orthotics.

It's important to consult with a podiatrist or orthopedic specialist to determine the best type of shoe for your specific orthotic needs, as they can help you select a shoe that is appropriate for your foot condition and orthotic, ensuring optimal comfort and support.

Can Orthotics Be Right For You?

For an orthotic to work, a combination of factors must come together, even if there is an underlying biomechanical problem with the CSR.

There must be a diagnosable biomechanical problem, a truly salient problem. The diagnosed problem must be related to your injury. This is usually a leap into uncharted territory since most RSIs are not clearly related to a known biomechanical problem.

So the problem should be fixable, at least in principle. Some problems cannot be solved with orthotics. It depends on the particular problem.
For this reason, it is still necessary to get the correct prescription in place.

If even one item is unchecked, you are out. Orthotics are not suitable. This is probably why the effectiveness of orthotics for lower limb disorders is shunned.

Can Orthotics Prevent Injuries?

Unfortunately, perhaps not. For the same reason, it is not a panacea. If you sell custom-made insoles or shoes, you should be skeptical unless you have a specific problem you want to solve. Many insoles are sold with the promise of preventing injury. While prevention is not the main reason they are prescribed, it is often used as an incentive to purchase. However, this has not fared well in tests.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Orthotics?

While orthotics can provide many benefits for individuals with foot and lower limb conditions, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider. These may include:

• Cost: Custom orthotics can be expensive and may not be covered by insurance. They may also need to be replaced periodically, which can add to the overall cost.
• Discomfort: Orthotics can take some time to get used to and may initially cause discomfort, such as soreness or blisters until the foot adjusts to the new device. In some cases, the orthotic may need to be adjusted or modified to alleviate discomfort.
• Limited shoe options: Orthotics can be bulky, which can limit the types of shoes that can be worn. Shoes with a wider toe box and a removable insole are often required to accommodate the orthotic.
• Dependency: Some individuals may become dependent on orthotics and may experience discomfort or reduced function without them. It's important to continue to exercise and strengthen the feet and lower limbs even when using orthotics.
• Incorrect use: If not used properly, orthotics may not be effective and may even exacerbate the underlying condition. It's important to work with a qualified healthcare provider to ensure the proper use and fit of the orthotic.

It's important to discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of using orthotics with a healthcare provider to determine if they are an appropriate treatment option for your specific foot and lower limb condition.

Why Are Orthotics So Uncomfortable?

Orthotics are devices that are designed to support and cushion your feet, and they can be very effective at treating a wide range of foot problems, such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, and bunions. However, they can also be uncomfortable, especially when you first start wearing them. Here are some possible reasons why orthotics may be uncomfortable:

• They need to be broken in: Like a new pair of shoes, orthotics may need to be broken in before they become comfortable. This is because the materials used to make them can be stiff at first and need time to soften and mold to your feet.
• They are not the right size: If your orthotics are too big or too small, they may cause discomfort or even pain. It's important to get properly fitted for orthotics to ensure that they are the right size and shape for your feet.
• They are not the right type: There are many different types of orthotics available, and some may be more comfortable for you than others. If you're experiencing discomfort with your orthotics, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider to see if a different type of orthotic would be more suitable for your needs.
• They are not being worn correctly: Orthotics need to be placed correctly in your shoes to be effective and comfortable. If they are not positioned properly, they can cause discomfort or even make your foot problems worse.
• They are causing temporary changes: Orthotics can help correct alignment issues and muscle imbalances in your feet, which can cause temporary discomfort as your body adjusts to the changes. This discomfort should improve over time as your body becomes accustomed to the new way of walking.

In summary, while orthotics can be uncomfortable, they can also be a valuable tool for treating foot problems. It's important to work with your healthcare provider to ensure that your orthotics are the right fit and type for your needs and that you are wearing them correctly. If you continue to experience discomfort, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider to explore alternative options.

What Is The Life Expectancy Of Orthotics?

The life expectancy of orthotics can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the device, the material used, the individual's activity level, and the amount of wear and tear they are subjected to. In general, custom-made orthotics can last anywhere from 1 to 5 years or more, while over-the-counter or prefabricated orthotics may have a shorter lifespan.

It's important to periodically check the condition of the orthotic and replace it when signs of wear or deterioration are present, such as cracks, thinning, or loss of support. It's also important to replace orthotics if there have been any changes in the foot or lower limb condition, as the orthotic may no longer be providing the necessary support or correction.

It's important to work with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the appropriate lifespan of your specific orthotic, as they can help you monitor the condition of the device and recommend replacement as needed to ensure optimal support and function.

When Should You Stop Wearing Orthotics?

The decision to stop wearing orthotics should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, who can assess your individual situation and provide guidance based on your specific needs. However, here are some general situations in which it may be appropriate to consider discontinuing the use of orthotics:

• Your foot problem has been resolved: If the foot problem that necessitated the use of orthotics has been fully resolved, it may be appropriate to discontinue their use. For example, if you were using orthotics to treat plantar fasciitis, and your symptoms have improved or resolved, you may no longer need to use them.
• Your orthotics are causing discomfort: While orthotics can be uncomfortable at first, they should not continue to cause discomfort or pain. If your orthotics are causing ongoing discomfort or pain, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider to see if a different type of orthotic or treatment option would be more suitable for your needs.
• Your footwear has changed: Orthotics are designed to fit specific types of shoes, and if you change your footwear, your orthotics may no longer be appropriate. For example, if you switch from wearing sneakers to sandals, you may not be able to continue using the same orthotics.
• You are experiencing new symptoms: If you start experiencing new symptoms, such as foot pain, after using orthotics, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider to determine if the orthotics are still appropriate or if a different treatment option is needed.

It's important to note that orthotics can be a valuable tool in the treatment of many foot problems, and stopping their use should be done in consultation with your healthcare provider. Additionally, it may be necessary to gradually reduce your use of orthotics rather than stopping them abruptly, as sudden discontinuation can cause discomfort or pain.

How Many Hours A Day Should You Wear Orthotics?

The amount of time an individual should wear orthotics can vary depending on their specific foot condition and the type of orthotic being used. In general, it's recommended to gradually increase the amount of time spent wearing orthotics each day, allowing the foot to adjust to the new device.

For the first few days of use, it may be recommended to wear the orthotics for 1-2 hours per day and gradually increase the wear time by an additional hour each day until reaching a maximum of 8-10 hours per day. This allows the foot to gradually adapt to the new device and minimize the risk of discomfort or injury.

It's important to follow the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding the appropriate wear time for your specific orthotic and foot condition. They can help you develop a plan to gradually increase wear time, monitor your progress, and make any necessary adjustments to the orthotic or wear schedule.

Should Orthotics Be Hard Or Soft?

The choice between hard or soft orthotics depends on the individual's specific foot condition and the desired level of support and correction. In general, hard orthotics are designed to provide more rigid support and control, while soft orthotics provide cushioning and shock absorption.

Hard orthotics are typically made from a firm material, such as plastic, and are designed to redistribute pressure and support the foot in a more neutral position. They may be recommended for individuals with conditions such as flat feet, overpronation, or supination, and are often used to treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis or metatarsalgia.

Soft orthotics are typically made from materials such as foam or gel and are designed to provide cushioning and shock absorption. They may be recommended for individuals with conditions such as arthritis or diabetes, or for those who spend long periods on their feet.

It's important to work with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the appropriate type of orthotic for your specific foot condition, as they can help you select the appropriate level of support and correction for your needs.

Also Read: Best Shoes For Arthritic Knees 

Conclusion

Brian Garris

Hi, I am Brian, Lives in Mooresville, North Carolina, and Went to The University of Texas at Austin, I am a shoe lover & know the inside out of shoes. I am well aware of the qualities of top-quality boots. That’s what I’m sharing with the reader of About Shoes/boots/footwear. Read More Here