The wearing time of insoles varies depending on the sole of the shoe and how long the shoe is worn. Wearing an insole is not the same as wearing a knee brace, for example. You use an insole because your foot has sagged because you have flat or hollow feet or because you want extra support. Traditionally, insoles are worn longer than braces and therefore wear out faster than braces.
Complaints
How long you should wear your insoles depends on your symptoms. The longer you use your insoles, the more they wear out and eventually the effect of the insoles wears off. On average, orthotics last one to one and a half years. However, it is advisable to replace the insoles every year for optimal support.
Wearing orthotics can be used for many different complaints. Below is a list of complaints that can be treated with orthotics:
- Heel spur
- Hallux valgus
- Problems with the knees
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Rheumatism
- Hammer toes
- Overuse of tendons or ligaments
- Morten's neuroma (pinched nerves in the forefoot)
- Sagging of the soles of the feet
- Achilles tendon complaints
- Overpronation
- Sports insoles
Insoles can also be used for sports activities. These insoles support your feet during sports and can ultimately lead to fewer injuries because you position your feet better.
What is the best way to care for your insoles?
If you take good care of your insoles, they will last longer. It is therefore also important to take good care of your insoles. Clean the insoles with a cloth and make sure they do not get completely wet. This is not good for the insoles. If they do get wet, do not put them on the cooker to dry. Fortunately, if the insoles give off an unpleasant smell after a while, this is easy to remedy. Put a few unused tea bags in your shoes at night. You will see that the odours will have disappeared like snow in the sun the next day! The same goes for coffee. You can fill a coffee filter with a little detergent and put it in your shoe, or use a coffee pod. Afterwards, the soles will smell fresh again!
Getting used to insoles
When using insoles for the first time, your feet may feel tired. At first, you may also experience muscle pain. It is therefore advisable not to use the insoles fully right away, but gradually incorporate them into your shoes to let your feet get used to the new position.
Do you have questions about how long you can use your insoles, or do you have other questions about your insoles? You can get advice from experts on our website via live chat, phone or email.
