Lifespan of a foot orthotic
By Isabelle Côté, T.P.O.
The question of the lifespan of a foot orthotic comes up frequently with our patients. On average, a well-maintained custom foot orthotic lasts between two and five years. However, several factors influence this longevity. This article explains what determines the lifespan of your orthotics and how to get the most out of them.
Factors that influence lifespan
The lifespan of a foot orthotic depends mainly on three factors: how often it is used, the type of activity and the patient's weight. Someone who wears their orthotics daily for physically demanding work will put more strain on the materials than a sedentary patient. Runners and regular athletes will notice faster wear due to repeated impacts and heavy perspiration. Body weight also exerts direct pressure on the materials, accelerating their compression over time.
Signs it is time to replace your orthotics
Several clues indicate that your foot orthotic is reaching the end of its life. The most obvious sign is the return of the pain the orthotics had initially relieved. You may also notice visible sagging of the shell, thinning of the top cover or deformation of the structure. If your orthotics slide around in your shoes or you feel an instability you did not have before, it is time to see your orthotist.
How to extend the life of your orthotics
A few simple habits help maximize the lifespan of your foot orthotic. Remove your orthotics from your shoes every evening to let them air dry. Perspiration accumulated during the day degrades the materials if it is not released. Clean your orthotics regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap. Absolutely avoid exposure to direct heat, such as a radiator or hair dryer, which could deform the thermoformed materials.
The top cover: a replaceable wear part
Good news: the top cover of your foot orthotic is a wear part that can be replaced without remaking the entire orthotic. The cover, whether made of leather, technical fabric or antibacterial material, wears out faster than the structural shell. At Marchildon, we recommend replacing the cover about every twelve to eighteen months, depending on how intensively it is used. This service significantly extends the overall lifespan of your orthotics.
The importance of an annual follow-up
We recommend an annual reassessment to check the structural integrity of your orthotics and how well they match your current condition. Your body changes over time: weight gain or loss, aging, a new physical activity. These changes may require an adjustment of your orthotics to maintain their effectiveness. The annual follow-up also helps detect early wear and intervene before the lifespan of your foot orthotic is compromised.
Do your orthotics need attention?
Visit our page on custom foot orthotics or book an appointment for a follow-up.