Got new custom orthotics in Edmonton and not sure how to ease into them without discomfort? You’re not alone. At our clinic, we see a lot of folks who are excited about getting support for their feet but aren’t quite sure what to expect during the break-in period. Whether you’re new to orthotics or just upgrading, adjusting to custom orthotics can take a little time and patience. But trust us, it’s totally worth it! Let’s walk through how to break in your new custom foot orthotics smoothly and comfortably.
What Are Custom Orthotics, Anyway?
These aren’t your average insoles from a store shelf. We’re talking about custom orthopedic inserts that are made specifically for your feet, designed to give you better alignment, support your arches, and take pressure off painful spots.
At our clinic, we work with people of all ages, from athletes to folks who spend hours on their feet, and even with orthotics for kids who are growing fast and developing movement patterns. The goal? To help improve comfort, balance, and everyday function with foot orthotics that are made just for you.
Tip #1: Ease Into It—Don’t Go All In on Day One
One of the biggest mistakes we see is trying to wear new custom orthotics all day right out of the box. Your feet, legs, and even your back need time to adjust to the new support. We recommend initiating with about 1 to 2 hours a day for the first few days. Then slowly add an hour or two each day until you’re wearing them comfortably for most of your regular activities.
This gradual approach gives your muscles and joints time to adapt and helps prevent unnecessary soreness. It’s like breaking in a new pair of shoes—slow and steady wins the race.
Tip #2: Pay Attention to How Your Body Feels
Some mild soreness or fatigue is pretty normal when you’re adjusting to foot orthotics, especially if they’re correcting alignment or shifting how your body distributes weight. But if you start feeling sharp pain, numbness, or discomfort that doesn’t improve, that’s something we want to look into.
At our clinic, we encourage clients to check in with us if anything feels off. Sometimes, a minor tweak to your custom orthopedic inserts makes all the difference.
Tip #3: Stick to Supportive Footwear
This one’s huge. Even the best custom foot orthotics in Edmonton won’t do their job if they’re crammed into flimsy or unsupportive shoes. Make sure the shoes you’re wearing have enough room in the toe box, a solid sole, and good heel support. Avoid shoes that are too tight, too flat, or too worn down—these can work against the support your orthotics are providing.
If you’re unsure about your footwear, bring a few pairs to your fitting or follow-up appointment. We’ll help you figure out which ones play nicely with your new inserts.
Tip #4: Don’t Forget to Move
As your body gets used to the new alignment from your custom orthotics, it helps to stay active, but gently. Go for short walks, stretch regularly, and try not to stand or walk for long durations at first. This helps your muscles adapt without getting overworked.
Our therapist might also recommend a few exercises that support foot and leg strength to make the transition smoother. A little movement goes a long way toward comfort.
Tip #5: Be Patient—Real Change Takes Time
It typically takes 1 to 3 weeks (sometimes a bit more) to fully adjust to your new custom orthotics. If you’ve had long-standing issues with your feet, knees, or hips, your body may need even more time to settle into the new alignment. That’s totally normal.
We always say Don’t rush it. Trust the process and let your body adapt naturally. If anything feels strange after a few weeks, pop back in and we’ll check the fit.
Keep an Eye on Wear and Tear
Even though custom orthotics are built to last, they don’t last forever. Over time, daily use, pressure, and body weight can lead to a loss of their shape or cushioning, especially if you’re active or wear them most of the day. A good rule of thumb is to have your custom orthopedic inserts checked every 12 to 18 months to make sure they’re still doing their job.
For orthotics for kids, we usually recommend checking more often—every 6 to 12 months—since kids grow fast and their gait or posture can change with each growth spurt. If you notice new pain, uneven wear on your shoes, or a return of symptoms, it might be time for a quick tune-up.
Make the Most of Your Custom Orthotics
Getting used to custom orthotics in Edmonton might take a little patience, but it’s a game-changer for long-term comfort and mobility. Whether you’re dealing with flat feet, plantar fasciitis, alignment issues, or just looking for better support in your day-to-day life, custom orthopedic inserts are a great step toward feeling better on your feet.
At Vertex Physiotherapy, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Our team works closely with you to make sure your foot orthotics fit well, feel comfortable, and truly improve how you move. From kids to adults, we believe everyone deserves to walk, run, and live without foot pain holding them back.
So take your time, listen to your body, and let’s get you moving comfortably because happy feet make for a happier you.