Type of orthotic: the softer and more flexible the device, the faster it wears out
Weight of the person: For every pound you put 3 pounds of torque through your orthotics
Activity level: The more you run, the faster they wear out
Foot type: The more flexible the foot type, the more stress is placed on the orthotic
Shoe type: the stiffer the shoe, the longer the orthotic will last
Heat: If you leave them in your trunk in 105 degree heat, they will bend more
These are just a few variables that effect orthotic wear, but a simple answer is somewhere between one and five years. After five years, most people will wear out their orthotics or their foot will have changed so they really need a new prescription!
Dr. Michael Perlstein's podiatry office is located at 4414 14th Avenue in Brooklyn, New York. He serves patients throughout the greater New York City area, including those residing in Manhattan, Queens, Staten Island, the Bronx, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
Dr. Perlstein's office is open Monday through Friday as well as on Sunday.
See Dr. Perlstein's expert insight on diabetic foot care.
See Dr. Perlstein discuss the pros and cons of exercise sneakers.
