Are Custom Orthotics Worth It?

Someone probably mentioned orthotic insoles if you’ve ever dealt with tired feet, stubborn heel pain, or knee and back discomfort that just won’t quit. And somewhere along the line, you may have seen the price tag on custom ones and thought:

“Seriously? Are they worth that kind of money?”

It’s a fair question, and an important one. Custom orthotics aren’t cheap and are not something you pick up over the counter.

Should I Buy Custom Orthotics?

While custom orthotics may be required for some rare disorders, the attributes built into Orthotiks effectively treat the most common foot conditions for 70% less cost and with much shorter waiting times. If your podiatrist decides that you need a truly custom orthotic solution, they may order you personalised Orthotiks via our rapid ScriptSprint process.

What Are Custom Orthotics?

Think of custom orthotics as personalised support for your feet. They’re not the squishy kind you slide into your shoes for extra cushioning. These are built specifically for your feet to support your unique shape, correct how you walk, and ease the pressure on areas working too hard.

A podiatrist (or other trained specialist) usually starts with a scan or mould of your feet. They’ll also examine how you stand, walk, and distribute weight. The result? A pair of inserts that aren’t just “comfortable” but are engineered to help your body move better from the ground up.

Custom vs. Store-Bought Insoles

Category	Custom Orthotics	Store-Bought Insoles
Fit	Made just for your feet	One-size-fits-most
Support	Corrects foot and body alignment	Basic arch support only
Best For	Ongoing or chronic pain	Mild, occasional discomfort
Lifespan	2–5 years	3–6 months

Who Really Needs Them?

Here’s the truth: not everyone does. Some people do just fine with good-quality over-the-counter insoles. But custom orthotics may be worth considering if dealing with:

• Constant foot pain (like plantar fasciitis, bunions, or arthritis)
• Flat feet or high arches
• Chronic knee, hip, or lower back issues
• Long days on your feet—nurses, teachers, retail workers, we see you!
• Conditions like diabetes that affect how your feet function

Custom orthotics could be a massive relief in the above cases. They’re not just about comfort but about supporting how your body moves.

Are They Worth the Price?

Let’s talk about cost because it’s real: custom orthotics usually run anywhere from $460 to $1200. That’s a lot more than what you’d spend at the pharmacy.

But here’s another way to think about it: How much are you spending on temporary fixes? Pain relievers, physical therapy, and replacing shoes that wear out fast because your gait is off?

When you add it up and factor in your body’s wear and tear, custom orthotics often save you money and discomfort. Plus, they can last for several years when they’re made well.

How to Know If They’re Right for You

Still on the fence? That makes sense. Here are a few ways to tell if custom orthotics might be worth exploring:

Your body’s been feeling it. Foot pain is easy to ignore, until it’s not. If you’ve been putting off dealing with it, this might be the solution you’ve needed.

Get a professional opinion. A podiatrist can look at how you walk and how your feet are structured. Sometimes, the issue isn’t your feet at all. It could be your knees or hips compensating.

Think about your day. Are your feet always sore after work? Do you need to sit down every hour to take the pressure off? That’s not normal, but it doesn’t have to be the reality.

Look at your shoes. If the soles wear down unevenly, that’s a clue that your stride is off. Orthotics can help rebalance things, and they last a long time.

Tried insoles, but still hurting. If store-bought inserts aren’t cutting it, it might be time for something built just for you.

The Bottom Line

So, are custom orthotics worth it?

While custom orthotics may be required for some rare disorders, the attributes built into Orthotiks effectively treat the most common foot conditions for 70% less cost and with much shorter waiting times. If your podiatrist decides that you need a truly custom orthotic solution, they may order you personalised Orthotiks via our rapid ScriptSprint process.