When you're told you need "therapeutic footwear," you might wonder: should I get custom-made shoes or will prefabricated options work? The answer depends on your specific situation—and sometimes the simpler option is actually the better choice.
Quick Comparison
Custom Footwear
Prefabricated
When Prefabricated Footwear Works Well
Medical-grade prefabricated footwear is often the right choice when:
- Your feet fit within standard sizing (even if extra-wide or extra-depth)
- You have mild to moderate conditions without severe deformity
- Custom orthoses can address your specific needs
- You need footwear quickly (injury recovery, time-sensitive condition)
- Budget is a significant concern and funding isn't available
The Power of Orthoses
Many people get excellent results from medical-grade shoes with custom orthoses. The orthosis provides the personalized support and pressure relief, while the shoe provides the therapeutic environment. This combination often costs less than custom footwear while delivering similar outcomes.
When Custom Footwear Is Necessary
Custom footwear becomes the right choice when prefabricated options genuinely can't meet your needs:
- Significant foot deformity – Charcot foot, severe bunions, rheumatoid arthritis deformities
- Different sized feet – More than 2 sizes difference between left and right
- AFO or brace accommodation – When braces don't fit in standard extra-depth shoes
- Partial foot amputation – Requires specialized build to maintain function
- High ulcer risk – When maximum pressure redistribution is critical
- Previous ulceration – History of foot ulcers warrants maximum protection
The Assessment Process
At Walk Easy, we follow a stepped approach to footwear recommendations:
Comprehensive Assessment
We examine your feet, medical history, current footwear, and daily activities.
Try Prefabricated First (When Appropriate)
If your needs can be met with medical-grade shoes + orthoses, we'll recommend this option.
Custom When Necessary
If prefabricated options won't work, we'll proceed with 3D scanning for custom footwear.
Honest Recommendations
We always recommend the least complex solution that meets your needs—not the most expensive.
Our Philosophy
Custom footwear is a significant investment of time and money. We only recommend it when it's genuinely the best option for your situation. If prefabricated footwear will work, we'll tell you—that's what honest clinical practice looks like.