How to Tell if Your Foot Orthotics Are Out of Date

Broken, torn or severely-worn foot orthotics can affect athletic performance, as well as cause distressful symptoms such as headaches. To avoid uncomfortable or even painful movements, it's wise to assess your foot orthotics on a routine basis. By examining several facets of orthotics, you can determine whether it's time to refurbish, readjust or replace your footwear.

Instructions

• 1

  Analyze the way the foot orthotics feel when standing, walking and running. If they feel uncomfortable or are causing pain, remove the orthotics and replace them right away or take the orthotics to a repair shop for refurbishing if the plastic shell hasn't cracked.

• 2

  Determine when the orthotics were purchased. Typical foot orthotics last from 1 to 5 years, depending on personal use and the material the orthotics are made from. If the orthotics are made from a hard plastic, a check-up is only necessary every 3 to 5 years. However, soft plastic, foam or leather orthotics may need to be replaced after only 1 year of use.

• 3

  Assess your lifestyle. If the orthotics only see mild use throughout most of the day, chances are they will last from 3 to 5 years. In contrast, athletes should take their foot orthotics in for adjustments or replacements every 1 to 3 years, Running Times Magazine recommends.

• 4

  Call an orthopedist for a reevaluation of your orthotics if you're experiencing foot pain during or after a pregnancy. Pregnancy often affects the shape and size of women's feet. This often leads to discomfort when wearing orthotics that had previously fit perfectly. While most women's feet return to normal after pregnancy, some women find that the changes are permanent, making it crucial for them to have orthotic adjustments made.

• 5

  Examine the orthotics for signs of wear or damage. If the orthotics are cracked, broken or are wearing thin, call an orthopedist to set up an evaluation appointment.

• 6

  Search your shoes for signs of uneven wear. Properly working orthotics will keep feet upright and perfectly aligned. If there are signs of uneven wear, contact an orthopedist for repairs or refurbishing.

• 7

  Inspect your feet for any signs of rubbing or pain. Callouses and bunions are major indicators that your shoes don't fit correctly and are rubbing certain areas of your feet excessively.

• 8

  Feel your legs after exercising. Foot orthotics are supposed to improve muscle movement. While there may be some muscle strain when adapting to the new feeling of orthotics, any strain or distress after your legs have had ample time to adjust is a sign of a problem with the orthotics. Schedule an appointment with an orthopedist if you're still experiencing strain after 1 month of wearing orthotics consistently.