Are Your Orthotics Still Working? 5 Signs It’s Time for a Replacement

When Support Stops Supporting

If you wear orthotics whether for foot pain, flat feet, or sports recovery you probably remember how amazing they felt at first. That perfect fit. The shock absorption. The way they made walking, standing, or running feel right. But here’s the thing: orthotics don’t last forever.

At Proactive Physical Therapy, many of our patients come in with foot pain, knee discomfort, or lower back tightness, only to discover the culprit is worn-out inserts. If you’re wondering whether your orthotics are still doing their job, it might be time for a closer look.

Whether you use custom orthotics in Sunnyvale or over-the-counter inserts, here are five telltale signs it’s time for a replacement.

1. Your Foot or Joint Pain Is Creeping Back

Orthotics are designed to relieve pain not add to it. If you’re starting to feel the familiar ache in your heel, arch, ankle, or even your knees or hips, your inserts may no longer be providing the support you need.

Footwear and posture work together. When your orthotics lose structure, they can’t properly align your body, leading to compensation patterns and strain. Many patients searching for foot pain treatment in Sunnyvale are surprised to learn it all starts from the ground up.

2. Your Orthotics Are Visibly Worn Out

Take a good look at your inserts. Are the edges fraying? Is the heel worn down unevenly? Does the arch look collapsed? Just like tires on a car, orthotics wear unevenly depending on your gait, weight, and activity level.

Even custom orthotics can lose integrity over time, especially if used daily. On average, orthotics should be replaced every 12 to 24 months, depending on your usage.

3. You’ve Had a Change in Your Body or Activity Level

Have you recently gained or lost weight? Started a new workout program? Been pregnant or gone through a major lifestyle change?

Your feet and their needs change with your body. Orthotics that were perfect two years ago might not support you the same way today. That’s why we always recommend a reassessment, especially if you’re returning to high-impact activities or experiencing pain in new areas.

If you’re googling orthotics near me after a recent health shift, consider getting professionally evaluated.

4. Your Shoes Feel… Off

Orthotics should make your shoes feel better, not worse. If you notice your shoes suddenly feel tight, lopsided, or uncomfortable when you wear your inserts, they may have warped or compressed over time.

You might even notice your balance or gait changing subtly. A quick gait scan at Proactive Physical Therapy can confirm whether your orthotics in Sunnyvale are still working with your feet or against them.

5. It’s Been Over a Year Since Your Last Evaluation

Even if you’re not feeling major discomfort, it’s smart to get your orthotics checked at least once a year. Foot structure can shift gradually, especially with age, pregnancy, or athletic wear-and-tear.

At Proactive Physical Therapy, we offer personalized assessments and custom orthotics that align with your body’s unique needs. A simple in-clinic evaluation can make a huge difference in how you move every day.

Why Custom Matters

While over-the-counter inserts may offer short-term relief, custom orthotics from Sunnyvale’s Proactive Physical Therapy provide long-term support tailored to your biomechanics. They’re crafted to reduce strain on your feet, ankles, knees, and spine giving you comfort from the ground up.

And because we integrate physical therapy with orthotic solutions, our patients often experience faster, longer-lasting relief.

Stay Ahead of the Pain

If you’re starting to limp, overcompensate, or feel like walking requires more effort, don’t wait for things to get worse. Replacing or updating your orthotics can dramatically improve your posture, mobility, and overall quality of life.

Your feet carry you through life to make sure they have the right support. At Proactive Physical Therapy, we make it easy to get expert evaluations, orthotics for foot pain, and custom solutions that fit your life and your shoes. Need a checkup for your inserts? Book your custom orthotic evaluation with Proactive Physical Therapy today because every step matters.