{"id":12898,"date":"2025-08-04T10:03:44","date_gmt":"2025-08-04T17:03:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.vionicshoes.com\/blog\/?p=12898"},"modified":"2025-08-04T10:11:45","modified_gmt":"2025-08-04T17:11:45","slug":"do-i-need-orthotics","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.vionicshoes.com\/blog\/do-i-need-orthotics\/","title":{"rendered":"Do You Really Need Custom Orthotics? A Guide to Shoe Inserts That Support Your Feet"},"content":{"rendered":"

By: Priya Parthasarathy DPM: Partner at USFAS, practicing in Silver Spring, MD<\/span><\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

I always emphasize in my practice that not all patients need custom orthotics right away. I usually trial over-the-counter inserts first to see if they benefit the patient, and then transition to custom orthotics for most\u00a0foot conditions<\/a><\/span>.<\/p>\n

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There are so many over-the-counter\u00a0shoe inserts<\/a><\/span>\u00a0to choose from, depending on the shoe or activity type. It is important that you go with a reputable brand that has a good-quality product. Many good-quality shoes come with a supportive footbed; however, adding additional support can benefit your feet, as one size does not fit all.<\/p>\n

How to Find the Right Orthotics for Your Feet<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Make sure you know your foot type, which is pronated, neutral, and supinated, as well as your\u00a0foot shape<\/a>.<\/span>\u00a0Some insoles work best with certain foot types. It is important to purchase a few different\u00a0types of orthotics<\/a><\/span>\u00a0and see what works best with your footwear and foot. Everything should meld together seamlessly. They work best in shoes with removable insoles to ensure adequate room for your feet. They can be trimmed down to fit your shoes. They DO NOT last forever. I cringe when patients return to my office years later with the same insoles I had recommended years ago. They have a shelf life of around 6-8 mos. or less with daily usage.<\/p>\n

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Vionic<\/a><\/span>\u00a0offers different types of inserts, which are activity-dependent. The\u00a0Active full insole<\/a><\/span>,\u00a0Relief full insole<\/a><\/span>,\u00a0Relief 3qtr insole<\/a><\/span>, and the\u00a0Slim fit insole<\/a><\/span>. They feature a lightweight, medium-density molded EVA base for maximum support and superior comfort. They also provide biomechanical Tri-Planar Motion control to help stabilize, support, and realign the feet back to their natural (neutral) position. It also features a heel and forefoot pad for increased shock absorption and energy return through the heel strike phase. They have all received the APMA seal of acceptance. The APMA Seal of Acceptance and Seal of Approval are granted to products found to promote good foot health by the American Podiatric Medical Association.<\/p>\n

Tips for Choosing Shoe Inserts\u00a0<\/strong><\/h3>\n