Breaking In Your Orthotic Devices
Your orthotic foot device is specifically designed for your foot condition and is a great way to keep your feet healthy and comfortable. However, these orthotic devices will require some adjustment for your feet to get used to the new areas of support. This period of adjustment is called breaking in and often takes a while. As you break into fulltime wearing of your orthotic devices, it may be discomforting to your feet and you should contact your podiatrist if the discomfort becomes excessive. Therefore, to prevent unnecessary injury by ensuring a successful break-in period, here are a few tips to help you:
Type of Shoe
It would be a good idea to wear your orthotic devices in just one pair of shoes during that break in period. In addition, wear them in a new pair of shoes rather than your normal pair of shoes that may be stretched out or worn out because of frequent use. Shoes that fit properly will work well with the orthotics.
Alternatively, you can buy heel grips for your old shoes, especially if your feet tend to rise out of the back of your shoe. This tendency may allow for some more room inside your shoes while wearing your orthotic devices, which means that your feet won't adjust to the orthotics well. For open-heeled sandals and shoes, wear your orthotics inside stockings or socks.
Wear Time
After getting your orthotics, wear them for some time, for instance, one hour or two thirty-minute sessions of walking and standing. Depending on the wear time you choose, increase it the following day by the same duration. If you feel uncomfortable before reaching the maximum time for a given day, remove the device and remember not to increase the wearing time the following day.
On the third day, try increasing the wearing time by half as much time as you previously did and evaluate the level of comfort. If after hours of consecutive wear you start experiencing mild aches in other parts such as the ankles and knees, don't extend the wearing time. You should instead cut it back by about half the time.
When to Check With Your Podiatrist
If you are still having areas of irritation or discomfort with your orthotics after weeks of trying to break in, the devices may be in need of adjustment. In such a case, don't attempt to do it yourself. Instead, notify your podiatrist for instructions and check-up.
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