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Quick Tips to Ease Pain After Wearing Orthotics

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Orthotics are designed to help protect your feet and make them feel as good as possible. When you have a good pair of orthotics, your feet will feel amazing and you can solve many potential issues of the foot, reducing pain, helping alignment, and ensuring you feel as good as possible.


But there are times when your pair of orthotics will not fit as well as you would like and they could cause you some pain. There are several reasons why you may be experiencing pain after wearing orthotics.


Many patients will notice a bit of discomfort for the first week as they adjust to a new alignment and get used to wearing the orthotics for the first time. When the pain continues, it can be a sign that something is wrong.


Being able to figure out the main reason for the orthotics hurting your feet will make it easier to manage the pain and make the orthotics work for you.

Why are My Orthotics Painful?

The first thing that we need to look at is why your orthotics are causing you pain in the first place. Orthotics are supposed to alleviate some of the pain you have, not make it worse. Finding the reason that the orthotics are causing pain can be important to helping you find a way to heal the problem.


The most common reasons you experience pain after wearing orthotics and ways to stop the problem include:


The Orthotic is not Fitted Well or is Worn Out


When you have improperly designed orthotics that do not fit your feet correctly, it can result in some pain. Your foot is not getting the customized support that it needs, which can cause it to be in improper alignment and will make the problem worse.


It is also possible that the orthotics are wearing out and you need to replace them. The best way to ensure you get an orthotic that will fit with your feet is to get a comprehensive assessment and gait analysis done on the feet.


This will help determine the exact issues of your feet and will get you an orthotic designed specifically for you. This can make the orthotic feel good, rather than causing more pain.


A podiatrist or another specialist can conduct this analysis to make a custom orthotic. These are different than over-the-counter options as they are designed for your foot, rather than working as a one-size-fits-all solution.


You Wear the Wrong Shoes


Another reason your orthotics may be causing you some pain is wearing the wrong type of shoes with the orthotics. Shoes that are too cramped or do not provide enough support to the feet could result in a lot of different problems along the way.


Even if the shoes fit well at one point, if they wear out or you have them too long, the amount of support could decrease.

Foot Pain Due to Orthotics

Breaking In Your Orthotics

When you get a pair of new orthotics, you need to take the time to pay attention to the shoes you would like to wear with them. It is best to get the orthotics fitted not just for your foot, but for a specific pair of shoes you will wear the most.


Choosing the wrong kind of footwear can cause the orthotics not to work well, which will lead to discomfort and could potentially make the original problem with your foot much worse than before. You can talk to your doctor when you get the custom orthotic to ensure you pick out shoes that will support the orthotic well.


You Haven’t Broken the Orthotics In Properly


You need to take the time to break in your new pair of orthotics. This process will be a little different for each person who gets a pair though. There are a few precautions you can take when breaking in a new pair of orthotics to ensure you do not have too much discomfort and can feel amazing at the same time. Some of these include:


  • On the first day, only wear the orthotics for about an hour. You can slowly increase the length of time you wear the orthotics until you wear them all day.

  • If you notice that the orthotics start to hurt when you wear them, you can take some time off to give your feet a break.

  • You do need to come back to wearing the orthotics after taking a break. If you forget about them and never put them back on, then you will have to restart the whole process again.

You should make it your goal to break in the custom orthotics so you can wear them full-time within a week or two. The average person finds that they can break into the orthotics in about two weeks. If you aren’t feeling comfortable with the orthotics after a few weeks, it is time to go back and see your doctor to see what is wrong.

Should Orthotics Hurt At First?

While you may have to get a pair of orthotics that will be firm and corrective to solve the problem of your foot, there are other options you can choose from. Some are soft to provide more comfort as you walk around as well.


While you may have some time to adjust to the new alignment and position the orthotics help with, it should not cause intense pain. You should not notice new problems in the knees or feet, an increase in your current level of pain, or even blisters on your feet when you wear the orthotics.


They should just have mild discomfort when breaking the orthotics in, similar to how your feet may feel when breaking in a new pair of shoes.


For most patients, your body will adjust to the new position relatively quickly, especially if you take it slowly. Within two weeks you should adjust and be able to wear the orthotics all the time to get the full benefits of this treatment.

Orthotics

Choosing the Right Orthotics for Your Feet

Orthotics, those inserts nestled inside your shoes, can be a game-changer for foot health. But with a variety of options available, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. Fear not, fellow foot enthusiasts! Here are some key factors to consider when choosing your orthotic:


  • Understanding Your Needs: The first step is identifying why you need orthotics. Do you suffer from arch pain, heel discomfort, or a specific foot condition like plantar fasciitis? Different orthotics cater to varying needs. Generic arch support might address mild discomfort, while custom orthotics molded to your feet offer targeted support for specific issues. Consulting a podiatrist or healthcare professional can help you pinpoint your needs and recommend the most suitable orthotic type.


  • Material Matters: Orthotics come in a variety of materials, each with its own advantages. EVA foam offers lightweight cushioning, ideal for everyday comfort. Poron provides a more contoured and supportive feel, suitable for activities like running. Carbon fiber is a high-performance option, offering maximum stability and responsiveness for athletes. Consider your activity level and desired level of support when choosing the material for your orthotics.


  • Over-the-Counter vs. Custom: Over-the-counter (OTC) orthotics offer a readily available and affordable option for general arch support. However, they lack the personalized touch of custom orthotics. Custom orthotics are crafted from detailed molds of your feet, ensuring a perfect fit and targeted support for your specific biomechanics. While costing more upfront, custom orthotics can be a worthwhile investment for those with chronic foot pain or specific needs.


  • Lifestyle Compatibility: Think about how you'll be using your orthotics. Do you need them for everyday wear in various shoes, or are they primarily for athletic activities? Orthotics come in different thicknesses and profiles. Opt for thinner profiles for dress shoes and thicker ones for athletic footwear that require more support.


Remember, choosing the right orthotic is a journey, not a destination. Don't hesitate to experiment with different types and materials to find what works best for your feet. Consulting a healthcare professional for guidance and ensuring a proper fit are crucial steps for maximizing the benefits of orthotics and keeping you moving comfortably!

Bilt Labs Custom Orthotics

Foot pain can be a constant companion, hindering everything from your daily commute to your favorite activities. Generic insoles might offer temporary relief, but they often lack the precision and support needed to truly address the root cause of your discomfort. Bilt Labs Custom Orthotics, however, are a game-changer, offering a personalized solution for conquering foot pain and getting you back on your feet comfortably. Here's how they stand out:


  • Precision Meets Comfort: Unlike generic insoles with a one-size-fits-all approach, Bilt Labs custom orthotics are crafted from detailed 3D molds of your feet. Imagine orthotics that feel like an extension of your foot, not a bulky afterthought. This meticulous process captures the unique contours of your arches and pressure points, ensuring a perfect fit and targeted support exactly where you need it most. No more generic discomfort – just personalized comfort that cradles your feet and alleviates pain.


  • Biomechanical Correction for Long-Term Relief: Foot pain often arises from imbalances in your biomechanics, the way your foot rolls and absorbs shock with each step. Bilt Labs custom orthotics go beyond simply cushioning your foot. They incorporate features like medial arch support and deep heel cups to promote proper alignment. This biomechanical correction reduces stress on your joints and tendons, leading to long-term pain relief.


  • Shock Absorption Minimizes Impact: Every step sends a jolt through your body, which can aggravate existing foot pain. Bilt Labs custom orthotics incorporate high-quality, shock-absorbing materials. This cushioning effect reduces the impact on your sensitive areas with each step, minimizing pain and promoting faster healing. It's like walking on a cloud, but with the necessary support and stability to keep you active without discomfort.


Bilt Labs Custom Orthotics are more than just pain relief – they're a proactive investment in your foot health. With their perfect fit, targeted support features, and premium shock absorption, they empower you to conquer foot pain and embrace an active lifestyle. Don't let pain hold you back – Bilt Labs custom orthotics can be your partner in achieving pain-free steps and a happier you.

Bilt Labs Custom Orthotics

Conclusion

In conclusion, while a little discomfort is normal when adjusting to new orthotics, these quick tips can help ease the transition and get you on the path to pain-free feet. Remember, consistency is key! Give your feet time to adapt, prioritize proper shoe selection, and don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional if pain persists. With a little patience and the right approach, your orthotics can become your secret weapon for foot health and pain-free movement. So lace up your shoes, embrace the adjustment period, and get ready to experience the comfort and support orthotics can offer! Take our free quiz today to find out which orthotic type is best for your feet.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is intended for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions about your health. If you have any questions about your health or are experiencing any medical problems, please contact your doctor or other healthcare provider immediately. Do not delay seeking medical attention based on the information provided in this article.