Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, we do. We usually start treating children from around two years old if they’re experiencing pain or other symptoms. For adolescents going through growth spurts, insoles can help manage stress on their feet during this time.

Yes! We’ve created insoles for high heels before, though it can be a bit tricky with very fitted shoes. If you need insoles for a particular type of shoe, let us know during your assessment.

Insoles can be designed to fit most types of shoes, but we’ll usually focus on the pair you wear most often. Shoes like trainers and walking boots are easier to accommodate, while dress shoes or high heels may require more specific adjustments.

It depends on your symptoms. If your pain only occurs during certain activities, you might only need them then. But for most people, we recommend wearing them as much as possible—at least 70% of the time to get the best results. During your consultation, we’ll discuss which shoes are best for your insoles.

Not usually. However, adjustments might be needed during the initial weeks to ensure they’re effective and comfortable. That’s why we review all patients six weeks after their fitting. If you have any issues before then, you’re welcome to get in touch.

Typically, about three years. However, this can vary depending on your activity level, the materials used, and how often you wear them. If your symptoms change or the insoles show signs of wear, it may be time to replace them.

Yes, they could. Foot problems like plantar fasciitis, bunions, or poor alignment can affect your posture and lead to back pain. By improving the alignment of your feet, bespoke insoles can often help reduce discomfort in your back, hips, and knees. A biomechanical assessment will help us determine if insoles are right for you.

It depends on your needs, but we can often make them the same day or as quickly as the next day. We also offer an express service that takes just two hours, with late evening appointments available on Thursdays until 7 pm.

While we can’t stop bunions from forming (since they’re partly genetic), insoles can help slow their progression. By supporting the arch of your foot, we can reduce the inward rolling (overpronation) that contributes to bunion development.

Most insoles are made from ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), a type of plastic that can vary in density to provide the right mix of support and cushioning. For more supportive designs, we might use carbon fibre, though this material is less adaptable once shaped. During your consultation, we’ll discuss the best materials for your needs.

Insoles from running shops are often mass-produced with minimal customisation. They’re designed to fit a general foot shape and provide basic cushioning. At LOC, we take a different approach. Using advanced 3D scanning, we create insoles that match the exact shape of your feet, ensuring they’re as effective as possible.

Off-the-shelf insoles can work in some cases, especially if your main need is extra cushioning. But bespoke insoles offer a higher level of support tailored to your specific needs. If you’ve tried generic insoles and still have pain or limited mobility, customised insoles could make all the difference.

It’s true that no treatment, whether it’s insoles or surgery, works 100% of the time. But there’s strong scientific evidence to support the effectiveness of bespoke orthotics. Over the years, we’ve helped countless patients improve their symptoms with our custom-made insoles.

The key difference? Our insoles are tailored to you. Unlike off-the-shelf options, we utilise advanced 3D scanning technology to create insoles that perfectly match your feet. Plus, everything is done onsite, from design to manufacturing, so we can ensure the highest quality and the best fit for your needs.

If you’re experiencing pain in your feet, ankles, hips, or lower back—especially if it’s ongoing or developed later in life—you might benefit from bespoke orthotic insoles. They’re a great non-invasive treatment option, particularly if other methods like rest, icing, compression, and elevation haven’t worked.

A biomechanical assessment can help us determine if insoles could help. We’ll only recommend insoles if they’re the right solution for you. For instance, some conditions, like iliotibial band syndrome, are better treated with physiotherapy and stretching rather than insoles.

Insoles are specially designed orthotic devices that fit inside your shoes to support your feet. They’re often made of materials like plastic and can help with shock absorption, distributing your body weight more evenly, and addressing biomechanical issues in your feet or ankles. Essentially, they’re there to make walking, running, or standing more comfortable and efficient.

If untreated, club foot can lead to significant mobility issues, pain, and difficulty walking. Early treatment helps to avoid these complications.

While the risk of recurrence exists, following the recommended treatment plan, including bracing, significantly reduces this risk. Regular follow-ups are essential to monitor for any signs of recurrence.

Yes, many adults living with untreated club foot can benefit from orthotic treatments. Visit our page on adult club foot treatment for more information.

We offer fittings at our clinics in Kingston-upon-Thames and Bristol, with follow-ups available in Manchester. Initial fittings are conducted in person, but many follow-up appointments can be virtual.

Costs vary depending on whether one or both legs require bracing. Please refer to our pricing page for detailed information.

Older children can still benefit from treatment. We may adjust the plan slightly, but the process remains effective even if started later.

Treatment typically begins after birth, following the Ponseti method. We start with the Cunningham Brace after your child has completed this initial phase.

The brace should be cleaned regularly with mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or submerging it in water. Your orthotist can provide specific care instructions during your appointment.

Most children need two to three braces throughout the two-year treatment period, with adjustments made as they grow.