Custom foot orthotics play an important role in supporting your feet, improving alignment, and helping manage a wide range of foot and lower-limb concerns. But like any device you use daily, orthotics don’t last forever. Over time, materials wear down, support can change, and your feet themselves may evolve. Knowing when to replace your orthotics can help keep you comfortable, active, and moving well.
Below are the most common signs that it may be time to have your orthotics reassessed by a regulated foot specialist.
1. Your Orthotics Look Visibly Worn
Orthotics should maintain their structure and shape. If you notice any of the following, they may not be functioning as intended:
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Cracks, thinning, or compressed areas
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Warped or flattened arch support
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Worn-down top covers or deep impressions
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Loose or lifting edges
Visible wear is one of the earliest, and clearest indicators that it’s time for an update.
2. Your Foot or Leg Pain Is Returning
If your orthotics were originally prescribed to help with discomfort such as heel pain, arch pain, plantar fasciitis, or forefoot pain, and those symptoms begin to return, your devices may no longer be providing the support they once did.
Changes in symptoms can happen when:
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The materials have softened or broken down
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Your foot biomechanics have changed
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You’ve increased or changed your activity level
A reassessment can help determine whether the orthotics simply need new top covers or if a full remake is appropriate.
3. Your Shoes Are Wearing Out Unevenly
Orthotics help guide your feet into better alignment. When they begin losing their corrective function, you may notice:
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Slanted or uneven wear patterns on the soles of your shoes
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One shoe appearing more worn than the other
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Excessive heel or forefoot wear
Abnormal shoe wear is a helpful clue that your orthotics may no longer be doing their job.
4. You Notice New Areas of Discomfort
Sometimes it’s not pain returning, it’s new discomfort developing. This can include:
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New calluses or corns
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Increased pressure under the forefoot or heels
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Achiness in the knees, hips, or lower back
These symptoms may indicate that your orthotics aren’t supporting your feet the way they were designed to.
5. It’s Been 1–3 Years Since Your Last Orthotic Check-In
Orthotics have an average lifespan of 1–3 years, depending on usage, activity level, materials, and footwear. Even if you aren’t experiencing symptoms, an annual assessment can ensure your orthotics are still performing properly.
Regular check-ins allow for:
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Early detection of wear
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Adjustments to improve comfort
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Updating top covers
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Ensuring your orthotics still match your current footwear, lifestyle, and foot needs
6. Your Lifestyle or Footwear Has Changed
If you’ve:
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Started a new job that requires more time on your feet
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Increased your exercise or sport activity
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Changed the type of shoes you wear most often
…your orthotics may need to be updated or adjusted to match your new routine.
Similarly, natural changes in your feet such as aging, pregnancy, or changes in weight can affect how well your current orthotics function.
When to See a Foot Specialist
If you think your orthotics may be wearing out, a chiropodist can assess their condition, evaluate your feet, and determine whether repairs, refinishing, or a full replacement is needed. Orthotics should always be prescribed and dispensed following a thorough clinical assessment to ensure they are appropriate for your individual needs.
Keep Your Feet Supported
Your orthotics work hard every day. Staying aware of the signs of wear can help you maintain comfort, prevent symptoms from returning, and keep you moving with confidence.