Breaking In Your Custom Orthotics: What to Expect

If you’ve recently been fitted for custom orthotics, congratulations—you’ve taken an important step toward healthier feet and better overall biomechanics. Orthotics are designed to provide support, improve alignment, and relieve pain caused by conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, bunions, or overuse injuries.

However, because orthotics change the way your feet and body move, they usually require a break-in period. This adjustment phase gives your feet, ankles, knees, hips, and even your back time to adapt to the new support system.

Why Do Orthotics Need a Break-In Period?

Unlike over-the-counter inserts, custom orthotics are tailored to your foot shape and gait. They redistribute pressure, support your arches, and improve alignment. Because they change how your body moves, it’s normal to feel mild discomfort, soreness, or muscle fatigue during the first few weeks of wear. This is simply your body adjusting to better mechanics.

Step-by-Step Guide to Breaking In Your Orthotics

Here’s how to make the transition smoother and more effective:

1. Start Slow
   Wear your orthotics for only 1 hour on the first day. Each day after, add no more than an hour of wear until you can comfortably wear them for a full day.

2. Listen to Your Body
   If discomfort starts before you reach your daily wear time, stop wearing them. The following day, keep the same wear time. On the third day, increase wear by just 15–30 minutes (but only if comfortable).

3. Expect an Adjustment Phase
   Some patients notice mild aches in their arches, ankles, knees, hips, or back after a few hours of wear. This is normal and typically improves as your body posture adapts. If the discomfort persists or worsens, reduce your wear time and consult your podiatrist.

4. Plan a Follow-Up
   Schedule a follow-up visit about 3 weeks after receiving your orthotics. By this point, most patients can wear their devices comfortably for 8+ hours a day. Adjustments may be made at this appointment to improve comfort or function.

5. Watch for Irritation
   If you notice redness, blisters, or persistent sore spots, stop wearing the orthotics and call your doctor. Small adjustments can often fix these issues.

6. Match with Proper Footwear

   • Shoes should have removable insoles if you’re using full-length orthotics.

   • Avoid overly tight shoes, especially around the sides and top of your foot.

   • Replace shoes that show significant wear, particularly at the heel.

7. Troubleshooting Tips

   • If the orthotic slips in slip-on shoes, add a thin pad (like moleskin) in the heel.

   • To stop squeaking, dust baby powder inside the shoe before inserting the orthotic.

Maximizing the Benefits of Custom Orthotics

Orthotics are most effective when paired with supportive footwear and consistent use. Once the break-in period is complete, they can provide long-term relief and prevent recurring foot and ankle problems. By following these steps carefully, you’ll shorten the adjustment period and protect your investment in better foot health.

At Restore Foot & Ankle Specialists, we specialize in custom orthotics and helping patients through the break-in process. If you’re experiencing pain or discomfort with your devices, please contact our office today with Dr. Gireesh Reddy or Dr. Sirisha Pokala by calling (469) 573-3427 or by booking an appointment online—we’ll make sure your orthotics fit comfortably and work as intended.