INSOLES VS CUSTOM ORTHOTICS: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

Aren't insoles good enough? Quick answer – sometimes. Over-the-counter (OTC) insoles definitely have their place especially for short-term comfort and minor discomfort but they don’t address the cause of why you want to try them in the first place.

Many people start with over-the-counter (OTC) insoles because their symptoms feel manageable. They think to themselves “it’s not that bad”, your heel only hurts in the morning, your arches ache after work or your shins only hurt when you run?  The solution a new pair of shoes or cushioned insole. And for some this may be enough.

Even though the pain you’re experiencing doesn’t feel like a big deal, it could be an indication that something has changed with your biomechanics. Without addressing the reason why you are feeling foot discomfort, it could get worse or migrate to feel like pain in your knees, hips or lower back. What started as a mild annoyance could become chronic pain resulting in reduced activity or needing to change activities.

Why Custom Orthotics?

This is where custom foot orthotics come in. Your pain doesn’t need to be unbearable to need custom orthotics but if you feel like your symptoms are persistent, standing in the way of your normal activities, or you’re adjusting the way you move to mimimize discomfort they might be a great solution.

Aren’t Custom Orthotics Just “Fancier Insoles”?

Custom foot orthotics are medical devices designed to address how you move not instead of a generic shoe size arch support. They’re built from a precise 3D scan or mold of your feet and designed by Certified Canadian Pedorthists who are trained to assess your gait, check your range of motion, and complete a biomechanical exam.

Instead of masking symptoms, custom orthotics aim to address the root cause so your body can move more efficiently minimizing pain and improving comfort.

Here’s a comparison of the differences between custom orthotics and over the counter insoles:

Custom Orthotics vs. Over-the-Counter Insoles

Here’s how custom orthotics and over-the-counter insoles compare:

	Custom Foot Orthotics	Over-the-counter Insoles
Use	Orthopaedic device made for just for you after a thorough gait analysis	General comfort, cushioning
Fit	Crafted on a 3D mold from a scan taken by Certified Pedorthists	Generic based on shoe size
Support	Tailored shell thickness, material, heel posting, heel cup, correction, & other components	Basic arch support
Longevity	3-5 years with refurbishments	6 months
Adjustments	All modifications to ensure your comfort are included for 1-year	None
Materials	Semi-rigid polypropylene to poly-carbon graphite composite for everyday wear to high impact sports	Flexible plastic
Warranty	1 year	6 months

Custom orthotics may be worth exploring if:

• Your discomfort keeps returning.

• Pain affects how long you can stand, walk, or exercise.

• Symptoms have been present for weeks or months.

• You want to prevent mild issues from becoming chronic.

  
  

The Benefits of Custom Orthotics

Imagine feeling lighter on your feet! Custom orthotics can help you achieve that. They provide personalized support that can make a world of difference. With the right orthotics, you can enjoy your favorite activities without the nagging pain holding you back.

We want to offer the best solutions for our clients. That’s why we start with a free 15-minute phone consultation to see if orthotics are right for you before scheduling an in-person visit.

Book Your Free Consultation Now