Should I wear orthotics if I have foot pain?

Should I wear orthotics to help manage pain in and around my foot and ankle?

Orthotics have demonstrated effectiveness in decreasing foot pain for individuals with several types of foot pain, including plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, tendonopathy, and heel fat pad syndrome. If you have foot pain of any of these types and have not experienced relief from other things, then you may benefit from use of an orthotic.

What kind of orthotics should I get?

There are pros and cons for different orthotics. Some of the brands that I initially recommend are cheaper and more basic. These brands include Superfeet and Dr. Scholls. If these are effective, then that is great. If they do not seem to help, I recommend that individuals get more custom orthotics from a brand called Vasyli. Vasyli has several orthotics that each have a distinct type of support. Some give support on the forefoot, some on the medial arch, and some that help to prevent either excessive pronation or supination, which involves the rolling inwards or outwards of your foot.

Where can I buy orthotics?

Each of the brands described above will be available on Amazon. In addition, Vasyli has their own website where you can purchase Vasyli orthotics at www.VasyliMedical.com. Dr. Scholls and Superfeet orthotics will also be available at places like CVS, Walgreen’s, and at select running stores.

When should I wear them?

I would recommend that you wear the orthotics during all periods of standing throughout the day. Additionally, some people do not perceive the benefits right away, you may need to wear them for a couple of weeks before the overloaded and painful areas of your foot become less so. If you wear the orthotics consistently for a month with no benefit, it may be a sign that orthotics will not be helpful for you, or that you need other things to help alleviate your pain.