Are Orthotic Insoles Worth It
Custom orthotics are expensive and usually not covered by insurance because they are designed specifically for your foot. You can expect to pay $200 to $800 for orthotic insoles made specifically for you. So before you shell out the big bucks, make sure you require orthotic insoles. And if you do, learn how to get the most bang for your buck.
The Fundamentals —-
Custom orthotics are expensive, ranging from $200 to $800, not including the associated office visits.
A thorough examination of your foot, a cast of your foot, and the manufacture and fitting of your orthotics are all part of creating custom orthotics. Find a provider with years of experience fabricating custom orthotics to ensure yours are done right.
You probably don’t need custom orthotics unless you have a complex foot disorder, are diabetic, are a high-performance athlete, or have a recurring injury that over-the-counter insoles can’t address.
A semi-custom over-the-counter insole like Tread Labs Pace is an excellent option for those who do not require custom orthotics. They are available in four different arch heights and are made with medical-grade support for a custom-like fit.
How Much Are Custom Orthotics?
Custom orthotics range in price from $200 to $800, but other costs must be considered. This includes the cost of the associated office visits required to fabricate your orthotics and the cost of replacing the top surfaces as they wear out. A pair of orthotic inserts can be resurfaced for $50 to $100.
After long use, the plastic or EVA foam material used in custom orthotic insoles will wear out. Unfortunately, there is no way to restore that piece. Instead, you’ll need to purchase a new set of custom foot orthotics.
Furthermore, your custom orthotic will be designed to fit a specific shoe style. Full-length custom shoe inserts can only be worn comfortably in casual footwear such as sneakers or hiking boots, as well as other shoes with a full-length removable factory insert. You’ll need a different style if you want to wear an orthotic insole in a dress or sports shoe. The cost of multiple styles of custom orthotics will quickly add up.
Is it worthwhile to get custom orthotics for your feet?
Why are custom orthotics so expensive when the actual manufacturing cost (including materials) is normally $100 or less? It’s because you’re paying for the exam, foot casting, and a hefty mark-up.
The following factors contribute to the overall cost of prescription foot orthotics:
Examine – Remember that the podiatrist will examine your lower extremities, gait, and lifestyle. This can include X-rays, treadmill gait analysis, and other tests.
A podiatrist in Singapore will take a non-weight-bearing cast on your feet.
Adding Value – After all, feet are still a business.
“It’s difficult to see the value in the plastic,” says Manhattan podiatrist Dr Robert Eckles. However, he emphasises that we are “paying for a comprehensive diagnosis of present and future problems,” not just the orthotic itself.
It is beneficial to ask your podiatrist to break down the cost for you so that you understand the exact cost of each product component. A reputable podiatrist will be able to help you with this. As a customer, you should be wary if the price of your custom foot orthotic insoles in Singapore is high, but your podiatrist isn’t thoroughly examining your feet or even taking a cast.