If you’ve ever dealt with foot pain, you’re not alone — up to 36% of the population suffers from foot pain, and many visit a pharmacy or athletic store looking for relief.
If you’re among them, you probably saw a wall of shoe inserts, each promising to ease pain and improve comfort. These store-bought orthotics are easy to find and usually affordable. But the big question is: Will they work for you?
It’s something patients often ask us at Lone Peak Foot & Ankle Clinic, so here we look at store-bought inserts and how they compare to custom orthotics.
Store-bought or over-the-counter (OTC) orthotics are mass-produced shoe inserts to fit a wide range of people. You can usually find them in drugstores, sporting goods stores, and online.
Some are soft and cushiony, while others feel firmer and offer more support. Many claim to help with conditions like plantar fasciitis, heel pain, or flat feet.
Store-bought orthotics help in some cases, especially for people who spend long hours standing or have mild foot discomfort. But because they aren’t tailored to your feet, they might not always give you the support you need.
Custom orthotics are different because we design them for your feet. They can correct imbalances, improve your posture, reduce pain, and even help prevent future injuries. We often use custom orthotics to treat specific foot issues, such as:
Studies support using custom orthotics for plantar heel pain and other painful foot problems.
Because we design them just for you, custom orthotics tend to last longer and work better than store-bought options — especially if your foot problem is more complex.
Store-bought orthotics can be a good starting point if you have mild symptoms or seek extra cushioning or arch support. For example, if your feet get tired after walking all day or you’re trying to break in a new pair of shoes, an OTC insert can provide comfort and cushioning.
Some people also use them while waiting for custom orthotics or as a backup pair for travel or specific activities. They’re also a lower-cost option for people who want to try orthotics before committing to a more customized solution.
If you use store-bought orthotics and still have pain, visit our experienced podiatrist, Dr. Greg Brockbank. Foot pain that doesn’t go away or keeps coming back isn’t something you should ignore; it can indicate problems with your foot’s structure or how you walk.
We often see patients who’ve tried multiple types of inserts without success. Once we evaluate them and fit them with custom orthotics, many finally get the relief they seek.
You should also visit us if:
We begin with a detailed evaluation, including a physical exam, a review of your symptoms, and a 3D scan of your feet. We use this information to design orthotics that match your foot structure and specific needs.
At Lone Peak Foot & Ankle Clinic, we take the time to understand your feet, lifestyle, and goals. Whether you need support for daily walking, standing at work, or training for a marathon, we design orthotics that help you move more comfortably and confidently.
Your feet do a lot for you. Return the favor by giving them the support they deserve. Call our office in Draper or Orem, Utah, for expert advice on orthotics, or schedule a consultation online today.
