Custom vs. Over-the-Counter Orthotics: Finding the Right Fit
Choosing the right orthotic can make all the difference in your foot health, whether you’re managing chronic pain, recovering from an injury, or enhancing foot function. With so many options available, finding the best fit for your needs can be challenging. That’s why we spoke with Dr. Scott Van Aman, one of Orthopedic ONE’s fellowship-trained foot and ankle specialists. Drawing on extensive experience, Dr. Van Aman shares expert insights into the differences between custom and over-the-counter (OTC) orthotics, helping you choose the support you need.
Understanding Orthotics
At their core, orthotics are devices designed to align, support, and improve the function of your feet. They replace or supplement the insole of your shoe, helping to correct abnormalities, distribute pressure evenly, and alleviate pain. You can opt for custom or OTC orthotics depending on the level of support, customization, and durability you’re looking for, but not all orthotics are created equal.
While OTC orthotics are pre-made and designed to fit a wide range of foot types, custom orthotics are uniquely tailored to match the exact contours of your feet. Dr. Van Aman emphasized the personalized nature of Orthopedic ONE’s orthotics: “Custom orthotics are made for your foot directly. We take a topographic map of your foot and then shape an insole out to match that, coat it with different materials, and incorporate different features to match your specific situation.”
Custom vs. OTC: What’s the Difference?
The key difference between custom and OTC orthotics lies in their design and fit. Custom orthotics are created through a detailed process that begins with a thorough assessment of your feet. Using advanced technology, we ensure that your orthotics perfectly match your foot’s unique structure, providing targeted support for your specific condition.
In contrast, OTC orthotics are mass-produced to fit a general population. They may work well for people with mild foot issues or neutral arches, but they often fall short for those with more complex or severe conditions. As Dr. Van Aman points out, “If you have an abnormal foot shape—such as a high arch or a pronounced flat foot—there’s really not an appropriate OTC orthotic.” Custom orthotics, on the other hand, are more durable and appropriately matched to your foot shape.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial when deciding which type of orthotic is right for you. Custom orthotics offer a level of precision and effectiveness that OTC options simply can’t match, especially for those with unique foot structures or persistent pain.
Tailored for You: The Benefits of Custom Orthotics
Unlike their OTC counterparts, custom orthotics are meticulously crafted to fit the unique contours of your feet. This personalized approach leads to a number of benefits that make custom orthotics a superior choice for many patients.
Perfect Fit, Optimal Support
Custom orthotics give you the personalized support you need, whether you’re dealing with plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or another condition. This tailored fit also means that custom orthotics can accommodate foot shapes that OTC orthotics simply cannot. As your foot changes over time, so too can your orthotics with Orthopedic ONE’s individualized approach and patient-centered care model.
Enhanced Comfort and Durability
Custom orthotics are also made from higher-quality materials that enhance both comfort and durability. “Our custom orthotics are made out of semi-accommodative materials, which means they’re more supportive, but they still have that shock-absorbent property,” says Dr. Van Aman. And, while OTC orthotics are often made from cheaper materials that wear out quickly, custom orthotics are built to last anywhere from 2-4 years, depending on usage. This longevity makes them a worthwhile investment, particularly for those with chronic conditions that require ongoing support.
Personalized Care and Adjustments
When you receive custom orthotics, you’re not just getting an insole—you’re getting a comprehensive treatment experience. At Orthopedic ONE, you’ll undergo multiple fittings and adjustments to ensure that your orthotics are working as effectively as possible. “It’s a very personalized experience, and it’s one that we stand by, where we’re continually working with you to get it right and to get your foot comfortable,” Dr. Van Aman emphasizes.
Quick Fixes or Long-Term Solutions? The Scoop on OTC Orthotics
While OTC orthotics might be a convenient and affordable option, they often fail to deliver the same level of support and comfort as custom orthotics. They can provide a quick fix for mild issues, but they lack the tailored approach necessary for long-term results—especially for individuals with more pronounced conditions. As Dr. Van Aman explains, “In a lot of instances, what [OTC orthotics are] really doing is just delaying satisfactory treatment.”
For those seeking a long-term solution that’s perfectly designed for their needs, custom orthotics offer benefits that OTC options simply can’t match.
For Mark R., custom orthotics from Orthopedic ONE have been life-changing. After experiencing persistent foot pain, Mark was referred to Dr. Van Aman by his primary care physician, where he was fitted for custom orthotics. “The custom orthotics ended my pain and allowed my wife and me to pursue our goal of exploring all 63 US National Parks in 28 states and two territories,” says Mark. Custom orthotics have enabled Mark to hike pain-free—and avoid surgery—for nearly a decade. As Dr. Van Aman emphasizes, “The vast majority of people we meet don’t necessarily need surgery. We’ve often got other solutions that are going to keep you active and help get rid of your pain, and one of those that’s usually quite successful for our patients is orthotics.”
Step in the Right Direction
Foot and ankle pain can be a frustrating barrier to daily activities but knowing when to seek professional help is key to getting back on your feet. If you’ve tried basic remedies like stretching, icing, or using OTC orthotics without relief, it might be time to consult a specialist. Dr. Van Aman highlights that “When you’re doing the simple things and they’re not working, that’s when you want to seek medical care.” If you’re dealing with ongoing pain or complex foot conditions, visiting a specialist could be the step that gets you back to pain-free living.
Where to Start
At Orthopedic ONE, the custom orthotics process always begins with a physician appointment. If you’re a new patient, we recommend scheduling a visit with one of our fellowship-trained foot and ankle physicians, who can refer you to our internal orthotics team.
- Jonathan Feibel, MD
- Heather Fuhrman, MD (Joining October 2024)
- Robert Gorsline, MD
- Brian Tscholl, MD
- Scott Van Aman, MD
If you’re an existing patient considering orthotics, reach out to your provider’s office directly to inquire and take the first step toward better orthopedic health.
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