How to Care for Your Orthotics

1. How to Care for Your Orthotics: Clean Regularly

Understanding how to care for your orthotics includes regular cleaning to prevent odors and maintain hygiene. Orthotics are prone to accumulating sweat, dirt, and bacteria from daily use. Cleaning them regularly prevents odors and maintains hygiene. Here’s how:

• Wipe with a Damp Cloth: Use a clean, slightly damp cloth to gently wipe the surface of your orthotics. This helps remove dirt and dust.
• Mild Soap for Deeper Cleaning: For a more thorough clean, use a mild soap diluted in water. Avoid soaking the orthotics as this may compromise the material.
• Air Dry Only: Allow your orthotics to air dry completely before using them again. Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources like radiators, which can warp or damage the materials.

Tip: To properly care for your orthotics, clean them at least once a week if you wear them daily, or more often if they are exposed to high-impact or sweaty conditions. We recommend spraying your shoes and orthotics with Clean Sweep Antimicrobial Shoe Shield, available at The Foot Health Centre.

2. Care for Your Orthotics by Avoiding Excessive Heat and Moisture

An important part of knowing how to care for your orthotics is understanding that heat and moisture can alter their shape and structure, reducing their effectiveness. Here’s how to protect them from both:

• Avoid Sun Exposure: When not in use, store orthotics in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
• Dry Shoes Properly: If your shoes become wet, remove your orthotics before drying the shoes to prevent moisture buildup.
• Switch Your Shoes: Wearing different pairs of shoes throughout the week can reduce excess wear on the orthotics and allow them time to air out.

3. Care for Your Orthotics by Inspecting Regularly for Wear and Tear

Caring for your orthotics means checking them regularly for signs of wear and tear. Damaged orthotics won’t provide the correct support and can impact your comfort. Look for:

• Cracks or Breaks: Even small cracks can worsen over time, affecting the orthotic’s structure and support.
• Flattening or Compressing: Over time, orthotics can compress, especially flexible ones. Replace orthotics when they lose their support.
• Discoloration or Odor: Persistent odor or discoloration might indicate the orthotics are absorbing moisture or bacteria, both of which could degrade the material.

Tip: Knowing when to replace orthotics is a crucial part of how to care for your orthotics. Check with your chiropodist for personalized recommendations based on your orthotic type and foot health. The average lifespan of an orthotic is 3-5 years.

4. How to Care for Your Orthotics: Wear Properly-Fitting Shoes

Orthotics work best when paired with shoes that provide adequate room and support. Taking good care of your orthotics includes selecting the right shoes:

• Choose Supportive Shoes: Select shoes with a sturdy heel counter, firm midsole, and ample room in the toe box to comfortably accommodate your orthotics.
• Avoid Slip-Ons: Slip-on shoes may not hold orthotics in place properly. Shoes with laces or adjustable straps help ensure orthotics stay in the correct position.
• Remove Existing Insoles: Before inserting your orthotics, remove the existing insoles from your shoes to allow proper fit and prevent crowding.

5. How to Care for Your Orthotics: Follow the Break-In Period

New orthotics may require a break-in period as your feet and body adjust to the new support. Here’s how to care for your orthotics during the adjustment phase:

• Start Gradually: Begin by wearing your orthotics for 1-2 hours a day and increase the duration gradually over a week or two.
• Listen to Your Body: Mild discomfort is normal during the adjustment period. However, if you experience persistent pain, consult your foot specialist.
• Check for Proper Fit: Ensure the orthotics are correctly positioned in your shoes and do not slide or cause any noticeable pressure points.

6. Store Properly When Not in Use

Knowing how to care for your orthotics includes storing them correctly to maintain their shape and longevity.

• Keep in a Dry, Cool Place: Store orthotics in a drawer or box where they won’t be exposed to direct heat or humidity.
• Avoid Bending or Folding: To prevent cracking or distortion, store orthotics flat rather than bending or folding them.
• Use Protective Covers When Traveling: If you carry your orthotics when switching shoes or traveling, use a protective case to keep them safe and clean.

7.  Consult Your Chiropodist for Adjustments

Sometimes, adjustments may be needed as your foot health changes or as your orthotics wear over time. Care for your orthotics by scheduling regular check-ins with your chiropodist to ensure they continue to meet your needs.

• Schedule Regular Checkups: Seeing your chiropodist annually (or as recommended) allows them to evaluate whether your orthotics are still providing the right level of support.
• Request Adjustments as Needed: If your orthotics become uncomfortable, too loose, or no longer align with your foot’s shape, your foot specialist may be able to adjust them.
• Consider Replacements When Necessary: Orthotics, like all medical devices, have a lifespan. Replacement intervals vary by material, usage, and type, so consult your chiropodist for the best schedule.

8. Have More Than One Pair of Orthotics

Another important aspect of how to care for your orthotics is to consider having more than one pair, especially if you frequently change shoes or have different activities.

• Rotate Between Pairs: Having multiple pairs allows you to rotate them based on the type of shoes you wear, whether it’s for exercise, work, or casual outings.
• Customize for Activities: Different pairs can be tailored to specific activities (e.g., walking, running, or standing all day), ensuring you have the right support for each situation.
• Prevent Wear and Tear: Rotating between several pairs helps reduce the wear and tear on each, prolonging their lifespan and effectiveness.

Caring for your orthotics with these easy steps will help you get the most out of them, keeping your feet healthy and comfortable. Regular cleaning, proper storage, and occasional check-ups ensure that your orthotics continue to support you, no matter where life takes you. Always reach out to your chiropodist at The Foot Health Centre if you have concerns about your orthotics’ fit, wear, or maintenance needs.

If you’re new to orthotics or need further guidance on how to care for your orthotics, feel free to contact our Chiropodists at The Foot Health Centre in Cobourg, Ontario. This guide offers practical and effective tips to keep your orthotics in top condition and maximize their benefits for your foot health.