Do Your Orthotics Need an Adjustment?
Have you been wearing your orthotics for a number of years without an adjustment? If so, they probably aren’t supporting your feet the way they once did. Similar to our eyeglasses, your orthotics prescription needs to be checked regularly because our bodies change as we age. Today, Dr. William Buffone of North Fork Podiatry/Three Village Podiatry is sharing what you need to know about orthotics replacement.
Just as our eyes get weaker as we age, we can also count on our knees, hips, feet, and back to weaken over time. The good news is that you can be proactive and prevent a lot of wear and tear on your body by keeping your orthotic prescription current.
What’s Involved in the Orthotics Assessment?
The assessment is simple and painless. Your podiatrist will first listen to your concerns because there are many factors to consider. You may be experiencing old issues or have new ailments that have cropped up.
Perhaps your weight or activity level has changed, or you got a new job. Because your needs may have changed, you may need a new orthotic or need to have them adjusted or remade.
When Should Your Orthotics Be Replaced?
Your custom orthotics will typically last two to three years on average. But that doesn’t mean that you should wait two years before considering replacement. Here are some indications that your orthotics may need replacing.
Return of previous symptoms: If the symptoms (such as heel pain, ankle pain, etc.) that led you to get orthotics has returned, this may be a sign that they need to be replaced because they are no longer working as intended.
The cushioning is deteriorating: The top cover cushioning of the orthotics is one of the first areas where orthotics wearers will notice wear and tear. Custom orthotics are created to provide the perfect balance of support and cushioning; if your orthotics begin to feel stiff, you should ask your podiatrist about getting a replacement pair.
Worn treads: Orthotics are like tires on your car – with time, their treads will wear down. This is why it’s important to check your orthotics for signs of deterioration.
If preventative maintenance is part of your wellness strategy (which it should be), it’s time for an orthotic checkup. Call the office of Dr. William Buffone of North Fork Podiatry/Three Village Podiatry today to schedule a consultation.
You can reach Three Village Podiatry at (631) 474-3338, North Fork Podiatry (Southold) at (631) 765-6777 or North Fork Podiatry (Riverhead) at (631) 419-7107 today or schedule your appointment online.