Orthotics vs. Over-the-Counter Insoles: What’s the Difference?
Your feet are your foundation. What you put in your shoes can have ripples all the way up: ankles, knees, hips, and even your lower back. But not every shoe insert is created equal. Let’s break down how custom orthotics differ from OTC insoles, and when a custom option from a clinic, like here at Westside Chiropractic, might be worth it.
What Are Over-the-Counter Insoles?
Definition & Purpose:
OTC insoles (or “prefab” inserts) are ready-made pads you buy in a store. They usually come in standard sizes (small, medium, large) and shapes.
Their job is cushioning mild arch support, or helping with comfort in general walking/shoe wear.
Benefits of OTC Insoles:
Low cost- cheaper than custom orthotics.
Easy to get- available widely at pharmacies, shoe stores, online.
Good for mild discomfort- helpful if you stand a lot, have general tired feet, or want a quick boost in comfort.
Potential Drawbacks:
Sometimes they don't fit perfectly- foot shape, arch height, gait (how you walk) are unique, so generic inserts can leave gaps, pressure points, or shift inside your shoe.
Limited correction- they might help with comfort, but often don’t correct mechanical problems, such as misalignment or compensatory walking patterns.
Shorter lifespan- materials may compress or wear out faster if used heavily.
What Are Custom Orthotics?
At Westside Chiropractic, we offer medical-grade custom orthotics, made especially for you. Here’s how we approach it and what makes them different.
What Westside Does:
Gait Analysis and Functional Study
You walk and/or stand, and the team studies how your foot functions, looking for imbalances, asymmetries, or compensations.
Range of Motion Testing
We will check the foot and ankle joints to see if movement is limited or uneven.
Casting Both Feet
If issues are found, we will cast both feet (in a “neutral” position) so the custom orthotics can correct foot/ankle alignment correctly.
Made with the Top Canadian Orthotics Lab
The custom orthotics are produced by a high-quality Canadian orthotics lab, designed to last for years.
Benefits of Custom Orthotics:
Precise correction of foot mechanics- helping reduce overpronation, sagging arch, or unequal gait.
Reducing strain on joints downstream- ankles, knees, hips, and lower back pain often improve when foot alignment is corrected.
Better shock absorption and support matched to your activity level (walking, running, standing long periods, etc.)
Long-term investment due to durability and effectiveness.
Potential Drawbacks:
Cost is higher than OTC insoles.
Requires time for evaluation, casting, and customization.
Needs a break-in period (may feel strange at first).
You need to ensure good shoes so the orthotic can function well.
How To Decide What’s Best for You
Here are some signs that you may want custom orthotics rather than just OTC insoles:
You have pain in your foot, ankle, knee, hip, or lower back that hasn’t improved with basic padding or OTC supports.
You notice a limp, imbalance or weakness when walking or running.
You have asymmetry in foot function: one foot behaves differently than the other
You have tried OTC insoles and find them uncomfortable, shifting, or partially helpful.
Your job or activity involves being on your feet for long periods or high impact, so better support can prevent overuse issues.
Tips for Getting the Best Out of Your Orthotics or Insoles
Break them in gradually
Don’t go a full-day of use right away if they’re new; start with a few hours.
Wear proper shoes
Orthotics perform best in footwear that has a stable sole and enough room.
Replace when needed
Custom orthotics can last years, but if you change significantly (weight, activity, wear), re-evaluation helps.
Combine with chiropractic care
Adjustments, soft tissue work, gait training, posture correction enhances what the orthotics can do. Our full assessment helps ensure that the orthotics is part of a broader plan.
Want to See if You Need Custom Orthotics?
OTC insoles have their place: they’re helpful for comfort, mild issues, or as a quick fix. But when there are alignment issues, ongoing pain, or mechanical problems causing effects in your knees, hips, or back, custom orthotics offer far greater benefits.
At Westside Chiropractic, custom orthotics aren’t just about putting something in your shoes, it’s about understanding how you walk, how your foot moves, and crafting a solution that supports your whole lower kinetic chain for years.
If you’re dealing with pain, imbalances or discomfort in your knees, feet, ankles, hips or lower back, consider booking a consultation at Westside Chiropractic. Let’s assess your gait, motion, and alignment to see if orthotics are the right solution for your needs.
