Your feet work overtime to keep the rest of your body moving well. They absorb shock, stabilise your posture, and influence how your joints stack with every single step. When something’s even slightly off in your biomechanics, the ripple effects can show up not just in your arches or heels, but in your ankles, knees, hips, lower back, and even your neck. Yes, neck. It’s all connected.
At Physio Connect, we see it all the time. Patients arrive with nagging pain or stubborn injuries that haven’t responded to standard treatment, only to discover that the problem starts from the ground up. That’s where orthotics come in. While most people think of the off-the-shelf kind you can grab while buying groceries, the most effective are custom orthotics, specifically designed for your feet, your body, and your way of moving.
If you’ve been wondering whether orthotics are worth the investment, here’s everything you need to know before searching “orthotics near me” and hoping Google gets it right.
What Exactly Are Orthotics Insoles?
Let’s clear up a few things first. Orthotics are not just padded inserts or foam cushions pretending to be helpful. They are medical-grade, podiatrist-prescribed devices that alter the way your feet interact with the ground. More specifically, they are designed to correct biomechanical inefficiencies, offload pressure, and support optimal movement throughout your entire kinetic chain.
Most orthotics come in the form of insoles, but what sets custom orthotics apart is the level of precision that goes into designing them. At Physio Connect, we never work from guesswork. Every set is created based on comprehensive assessment tools, including:
- Gait analysis to observe walking and running patterns
- Biomechanical assessments to check for imbalances
- Pressure load distribution to pinpoint where strain is occurring
These aren’t generic templates. Each pair of orthotics is made to fit your specific anatomy, taking into account everything from existing injuries and medical history to the type of shoes you wear daily. Whether you’re dealing with ongoing pain, recovering from injury, or simply trying to future-proof your movement, the right orthotics can make a measurable difference in how you feel and function.
Who Benefits from Orthotics?
There’s a widely held belief that orthotics are only for people with obvious deformities or visible issues like bunions or collapsed arches. That’s simply not true. In reality, many people are living with minor foot and movement imbalances that gradually build into major pain or dysfunction. These subtle issues often go unnoticed until they start to interfere with daily activities or sports.
Orthotics aren’t just about pain relief, either. They are about improving function, enhancing performance, and preventing future injuries. So, who might benefit? Here’s a shortlist of common presentations we see in clinic:
- Persistent or recurring plantar fasciitis that hasn’t improved with basic rehab
- Heel spurs, forefoot burning, or pain in the ball of the foot (metatarsalgia)
- Flat feet or collapsed arches causing knee or hip discomfort
- High arches lacking adequate shock absorption, leading to joint strain
- Recurrent shin splints or Achilles tendon pain in runners and active individuals
- Visible asymmetry in movement, such as uneven stride or limping
- Postural misalignment affecting gait, stability, or balance
One surprisingly common sign you may need orthotics? Your shoes wear out unevenly. This can indicate a mechanical imbalance that’s placing excess strain on one part of your foot or leg. Instead of buying new shoes every few months, you might be better off investing in structural support that addresses the root cause. Our podiatrist orthotics are specifically prescribed to optimise how you move, not just where it hurts.
Remember, the goal isn’t just to treat symptoms. It’s to improve how your body functions as a whole. Orthotics may start with your feet, but the benefits ripple all the way up.
Are Orthotics Right for You?
If your feet have been quietly sabotaging your comfort, performance, or posture, it might be time to stop guessing and start getting real answers. Orthotics are not a last resort. They’re a proactive tool for preventing future problems and restoring proper movement across your entire body.
Take the next step, literally, with orthotics that are actually made for you.
Book your appointment with Physio Connect here.
Custom Orthotic FAQs
What’s the difference between custom orthotics and off-the-shelf insoles?
The difference is night and day. Off-the-shelf insoles are mass-produced, generic, and made to fit as many foot types as possible, often offering minimal or temporary relief. Custom orthotics, on the other hand, are made specifically for your feet using precise scans and clinical evaluation. They’re designed not just for comfort, but for correcting biomechanical issues and supporting long-term movement.
Can I get orthotics without a referral?
Yes, you don’t need a referral to visit an orthotic clinic. Physio Connect welcomes both self-referred and GP-referred patients for orthotics services.
Are orthotics covered by ACC?
In many cases, yes. If your injury is covered under ACC and orthotic therapy is deemed clinically necessary, the cost may be subsidised. We’re registered providers with ACC, and we’re experienced in managing orthotics through the scheme. Our clinicians will complete the appropriate paperwork and ensure your case is supported with the correct documentation
How long do custom orthotics last?
Most custom orthotics last between two to five years, depending on usage, materials, and how much your feet or body change during that time. Regular follow-ups are recommended to ensure the orthotics are still supporting you effectively. If you’re highly active or your occupation involves long hours on your feet, they may wear more quickly, but they can usually be refurbished or adjusted.
Do orthotics fit in all types of shoes?
Most of our orthotics insoles are designed to fit into standard trainers, work boots, and walking shoes. If you wear dress shoes, boots, or specialty footwear, we can tailor the design to suit the shoe type. During your fitting appointment, we’ll discuss your footwear needs and recommend the best format for your orthotics.
