When Orthotics Stop Working — How to Prevent Pain Gotham Footcare

Orthotics are often a game-changer for people dealing with foot pain. They provide support, improve alignment, and relieve pressure that leads to discomfort. Many patients feel significant relief when they first start wearing orthotics, only to notice months or years later that their pain is slowly coming back. At Gotham Footcare, this is a common concern we hear: “My orthotics used to work, but now my feet hurt again.”

If your orthotics have stopped working, it does not mean they failed or that treatment was a mistake. In most cases, it means something has changed. Understanding why orthotics lose effectiveness and knowing what to do next can help you prevent pain from becoming chronic again.

Why Orthotics Don’t Last Forever

Orthotics are medical devices designed to support your feet and improve how you move. Like shoes, they are subject to wear and tear. Over time, materials compress, supports break down, and the orthotic no longer provides the same level of correction. Even high-quality custom orthotics have a lifespan.

In addition, your body is not static. Changes in weight, activity level, age, or overall health can affect how your feet function. A device that worked well two years ago may no longer meet your current needs. This is one of the most common reasons orthotics stop working.

Normal Wear and Tear on Orthotics

Daily use gradually breaks down orthotics. Cushioning becomes thinner, arch support weakens, and cracks or warping may appear. This often happens slowly, so patients don’t notice until pain returns. If your orthotics look worn or no longer feel supportive, they may simply need to be replaced.

At Gotham Footcare, we evaluate the condition of your orthotics and determine whether adjustments or replacement are needed as part of our custom orthotics services.

Changes in Activity Level

If you have started walking more, exercising, standing longer at work, or changed your routine, your feet may be under new stress. Orthotics that were designed for your previous lifestyle may not provide adequate support for increased or different activity.

For example, someone who transitions from a desk job to a more active role may need orthotics with additional cushioning or stability. Without updates, pain can return even if the orthotics themselves are not significantly worn.

Your Feet Change Over Time, Even If You Don’t Notice

Many people assume their feet stay the same throughout adulthood, but this is rarely true. Over time, ligaments can stretch, arches can lower, and foot structure can subtly change. These changes often happen gradually, making them easy to overlook until pain returns.

Age-related changes in flexibility and joint health can also affect how your feet absorb impact. As tissues lose elasticity, areas like the heel, arch, and forefoot may experience increased pressure. Orthotics that once provided adequate support may no longer align your feet as effectively.

Medical factors can also play a role. Conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or nerve irritation can alter foot mechanics and sensitivity. Even without a formal diagnosis, small biomechanical changes can reduce the effectiveness of older orthotics.

This is why periodic reassessment is important. Orthotics should evolve with your feet, not remain fixed while your body changes around them.

Wearing the Wrong Shoes

Orthotics can only work properly when paired with appropriate footwear. Shoes that are worn out, too narrow, or lack proper structure can prevent orthotics from sitting correctly. This reduces their effectiveness and can even create new pressure points.

Winter boots, dress shoes, or athletic shoes all have different support needs. If your footwear has changed but your orthotics have not, discomfort may follow. Gotham Footcare helps patients choose shoes that properly accommodate them and support foot health.

Underlying Conditions Have Progressed

Foot conditions can change over time. Plantar fasciitis, arthritis, tendon issues, and structural problems may worsen or evolve. Orthotics that were once sufficient may no longer fully address the condition.

If heel pain, arch pain, or stiffness has returned, it may indicate that the underlying problem needs to be re-evaluated. Gotham Footcare provides comprehensive care for conditions like plantar fasciitis and other causes of foot pain.

Signs Your Orthotics Are No Longer Working

Many patients assume returning pain is normal and they just need to ‘push through it.’ However, certain signs indicate it’s time to address the underlying issue. These include foot pain that gradually returns, pain in new areas, increased fatigue while walking, uneven wear on shoes, or orthotics that feel flat or uncomfortable.

You may also notice knee, hip, or lower back discomfort, which can result from changes in foot alignment. These are signals that should not be ignored.

What to Do Before the Pain Gets Worse

The first step is to stop ignoring the symptoms, as doing so can allow minor problems to develop into chronic issues. Schedule an evaluation with our team who can assess your feet, your orthotics, and your footwear together.

At Gotham Footcare, we perform a thorough examination to determine whether your orthotics need adjustment, replacement, or whether a different treatment approach is needed. Early evaluation can prevent pain from escalating.

Adjustment vs. Replacement

In some cases, orthotics can be modified to restore effectiveness. Adjustments may include adding cushioning, changing arch support, or correcting alignment issues. If they are significantly worn or no longer match your foot structure, replacement may be recommended.

Custom orthotics are designed to address your specific needs, and updating them ensures continued support and pain relief. Gotham Footcare creates them tailored to your current condition, not just your past symptoms.

Addressing the Root Cause of Pain

Orthotics are one part of a comprehensive treatment plan. If pain has returned, additional therapies may be needed. This can include stretching programs, physical therapy, changes in activity, or treatment for inflammation.

Ignoring the root cause and relying solely on old orthotics can delay recovery. A podiatric evaluation ensures that all contributing factors are addressed.

How Often Should Orthotics Be Checked?

Even if you are pain-free, they should be evaluated periodically. Most patients benefit from a check-up every one to two years, or sooner if pain returns. Regular evaluations help catch wear and changes early, before discomfort becomes disruptive.

Patients with conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, or nerve issues may need more frequent monitoring. Gotham Footcare provides ongoing care to ensure orthotics continue to support long-term foot health.

When to See a Podiatrist

If you notice foot pain returning, discomfort in new areas, or changes in how your orthotics feel, it is time to see a podiatrist. Pain should not be dismissed as normal aging or something you simply have to live with.

At Gotham Footcare, our podiatrists evaluate custom orthotics, diagnose underlying issues, and create personalized treatment plans to keep you comfortable and active. Addressing problems early can prevent more serious complications and keep pain from returning.

Stay Ahead of Foot Pain

Custom orthotics are an effective tool for managing foot pain, but they are not a one-time solution. Wear, lifestyle changes, footwear choices, and evolving conditions all play a role in how well they work over time. Paying attention to early warning signs and seeking professional care can help you stay ahead of pain.

If your orthotics no longer feel effective or your foot pain is returning, Gotham Footcare is here to help. Schedule an appointment today to have your orthotics evaluated and take the next step toward lasting comfort and healthy feet.