Custom Orthotics vs. Over the Counter Insoles

If you have been looking for ways to improve your foot’s health, then you probably have heard about orthotics. Foot orthotics Dubai are insole foot supports that help in relieving foot pain, decreasing abnormal foot motion, improving balance when you walk, and enhancing overall gait cycle. 

When you finally decided to buy orthotics, there are two main options that you have. In Dubai, you can buy custom orthotics or over the counter (OTC) insoles.

Many people, especially those who would be making a purchase for the first time, are torn between these two options. If you are one of these people, it would be best to know the difference between the two. 

Custom orthotics
True to its name, custom orthotics are customized specifically for one’s foot. Generally, custom foot orthotics are designed with the help of a sophisticated machine that creates a 3D impression or digital scans of your foot. You will commonly find this service from foot physiotherapy clinics

From there, the orthotic will then be produced with the precise contouring and shape of your foot based on the 3D impression.

Here are the advantages of using custom orthotics:
  • Provides maximum comfort
  • Promotes balanced distribution of weight on the feet
  • Specifically designed for your foot
  • Professionally prescribed by a doctor
  • Improves posture
  • Improves athletic performance
  • Addresses a wider range of foot conditions and problems such as tendonitis, bursitis, bunions, joint pain, flat feet, overpronation, plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma, and hammer toes, to name a few.
Over the counter insoles
OTC orthotics are a feasible alternative for custom orthotics. As its name suggests, it can easily be bought over the counter or it can also be part of physiotherapy in Jumeirah. Most pharmacies and medical supply stores in Dubai offer OTC insoles. Thus, finding them should not be difficult.
The following are some of the advantages of using OTC insoles:
  • Accessible and easy to find
  • More affordable than custom orthotics
  • Provides comfort from minor foot problems
  • Adds comfort
  • Decrease foot pain



Which one is the right for you?
Ultimately, you need to decide whether you will go for the custom orthotics or over the counter insoles. To help you make the right decision, you need to weigh your options.

While custom orthotics obviously provide more benefits, they come with a greater price than the OTC insoles. If you have the budget, then you might want to go for the custom-made orthotics.
One factor to consider with OTC insoles is that you might be making your foot problem worse. Using improperly fitted OTC insoles may lead to increased pain and discomfort. Thus, OTC insoles are mainly recommended for people who are in overall good health and not for those with serious conditions.

If you want to be sure, it would be a good idea to see a Dubai physiotherapist. They have the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to help you find the right orthotics for you. Visit Scandinavian Physiotherapy Center and see how they can give you the right advice when it comes to choosing the ideal orthotics. 


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