If you suffer from a condition that requires you to purchase custom orthotics, you want to take steps to ensure your new piece or pieces last for as long as possible. Here are steps that ensure custom orthotics are maintained properly so they do not suffer from premature damage.

Set A Schedule To Break In Your Orthotics

When you first start wearing new orthotics, you do not want to use them too frequently. Overuse at the beginning of orthotic wear leads to discomfort or pain in the feet. It is best to start off slow and increase the amount of wear time so you become accustomed to the way the pieces feel while they are in your shoes. For the first few days of use, limit wearing orthotics to an hour or two. If you do not experience any ill effects after a day or two, increase your wear time by an hour and repeat the process until you are able to wear your orthotics for an entire day without difficulty. If you do not become used to the orthotics after several weeks, it is best to contact your physician for a follow-up appointment to check that the custom pieces are constructed and shaped properly.

Clean Your Orthotics On A Routine Basis

You need to clean your custom orthotics to keep them fresh and free of debris due to regular use. Always wear clean socks with your orthotics. If your feet tend to sweat, you need to perform cleaning procedures more frequently. For plastic pieces, use mild soap and warm water to wash away debris. Dry with a towel to remove moisture. For foam orthotics, use a bit of alcohol on a clean piece of cloth to remove debris. Suede is cleaned by using a nylon brush to wipe away accumulated debris. Since leather becomes altered with moisture application, use a barely damp cloth to remove debris.

Avoid Moisture In Between Cleaning Sessions

If your orthotics become wet while they are in your shoes, it is important to remove them as soon as you can. Use a clean cloth to remove as much moisture from your pieces as possible. Set your orthotics on a flat, clean surface and allow them to air dry rather than using a hairdryer or heater to do the job. These devices may cause damage to the pieces if they happen to get too close to them.