Getting the Most From Your Custom Orthotics: When to Replace, Refurbish, or Rescan

Most people spend hundreds of dollars on custom orthotics and then forget about them until a problem arises. At Align Foot & Ankle Center in Camarillo, California, board-certified podiatrist Hai-En Peng, DPM, FACFAS, sees patients who could have avoided expensive replacements with better maintenance timing.

Knowing when to replace, refurbish, or get new scans can save you money and keep your feet comfortable.

Understanding normal orthotic wear patterns

The fabric on top wears through first. You’ll see thin spots or small holes where your toes or heel hit the pavement the hardest. 

The foam underneath starts losing its bounce after a couple of years of daily use, but wear-and-tear can show sooner depending on your activity level.

Heat and sweat also accelerate the breakdown. Your feet get hot when you move a lot, and moisture breaks down the glues holding layers together.

When replacement is your only option

Don’t try to patch a cracked orthotic shell. Once the rigid part breaks, the device can’t control your foot motion properly. 

The foam compression test tells you a lot. Press down on the cushioned areas — if they don't spring back, you need to replace them. Compressed foam creates pressure points instead of relieving them.

Sometimes, the whole device warps from heat exposure. If your orthotics no longer sit flat in your shoes or feel loose, replacement is necessary.

Expect to replace functional orthotics every 3-5 years with regular use. Athletes and people who walk extensively may need new ones sooner.

Refurbishment saves money when the shell is intact

New top covers fix many comfort issues. We can replace worn fabric and add fresh padding over a good shell. This costs less than new orthotics and extends their life.

Common refurbishment options include:

• New fabric covers over worn surfaces
• Additional heel or metatarsal padding
• Arch fill adjustments for minor foot changes
• Modifications for different shoe types

Dr. Peng examines the shell integrity before recommending refurbishment. If the rigid part is sound, refurbishing often makes more sense than starting over.

Your feet change more than you realize

Pregnancy permanently alters foot structure. Most women need new scans after having children because their arch height and foot length change. The old orthotics won't match the new foot shape.

Weight changes affect pressure patterns. Gaining or losing 15-20 pounds shifts how your feet hit the ground. Your current orthotics might create new problem areas.

Age changes foot mechanics, too. Ligaments stretch over time, and fat padding under your feet thins out. These changes can make perfect orthotics feel uncomfortable.

Simple maintenance extends orthotic life

A few basic habits can double how long your orthotics last and keep them working properly:

Remove them nightly

Take them out of your shoes every night. Trapped moisture breeds bacteria and breaks down materials faster than normal wear.

Rotate between shoes

Use two pairs of shoes when possible. This gives your orthotics time to dry completely between uses.

Clean them weekly

Wash with mild soap and water. Harsh cleaners damage the materials. Let them air dry completely before putting them back in your shoes.

Avoid extreme heat

Keep them away from car dashboards and heating vents. Extreme heat warps the shell and breaks down foam layers.

Professional evaluation prevents costly mistakes

Dr. Peng tracks wear patterns that predict problems before they happen. Catching issues early often means refurbishment instead of replacement.

We keep detailed records of your original scans and modifications. This makes future adjustments more accurate and often less expensive.

Schedule orthotic check-ups during your regular foot exams. Professional assessment helps you make the right choice between repair and replacement.

Get expert orthotic care in Camarillo, California

Let our team help track your orthotic maintenance needs. At Align Foot & Ankle Center, Dr. Peng evaluates your current devices and recommends the most cost-effective approach to keep your feet comfortable.

Contact our Camarillo office today to schedule an orthotic evaluation.