Custom Orthotics vs. Store Bought Inserts: What’s the Difference?

Custom Orthotics vs. Store‑Bought Inserts: What’s the Difference?

By Dr. David J. Doperak, East Valley Orthotics

If you’ve ever wandered down the foot‑care aisle at a pharmacy or big‑box store, you’ve seen the wall of inserts promising comfort, support, and pain relief. For some people, those off‑the‑shelf options can offer temporary help—but they’re not designed to solve the underlying issues that cause foot, knee, hip, or back discomfort.

At East Valley Orthotics, serving Chandler, Gilbert, and Sun Lakes, we proudly design custom MASS Posture and precision‑tuned flexible orthotics. But what does that really mean, and how is it different from grabbing a pair of inserts at the store?

Let’s break it down simply.

Store‑Bought Inserts: A One‑Size‑Fits‑Most Approach

Store‑bought inserts can be helpful for:

• Mild, occasional discomfort

• Extra cushioning in shoes

• Short‑term support during activities

But they also come with limitations:

• They’re made to fit the “average” foot—not your foot

• They compress and wear out quickly

• They don’t correct posture or biomechanics

• They can mask symptoms instead of addressing the cause

Think of them like reading glasses from a drugstore: they might help a little, but they’re not tailored to your specific needs.

Custom Orthotics: Built for Your Body, Your Posture, Your Life

Custom orthotics are different because they’re designed around you—your structure, your gait, your foot flexibility, and your unique foot shape.

At East Valley Orthotics, our process goes even deeper. We use the MASS Posture approach, which focuses on restoring your foot to its optimal position, not just supporting it where it currently is. Then we precision‑calibrate every orthotic for the right amount of flexibility, ensuring it works with your foot rather than forcing it into a rigid alternative.

What this means for you:

• Better alignment from the ground up

• Improved balance and stability

• Reduced stress on joints

• Long‑term comfort and function

• A device that adapts to your foot—not the other way around

These are orthotics that help your body move the way it was designed to.

Which Option Is Right for You?

There’s no one answer for everyone. Some people do fine with store‑bought inserts for light support. Others need a custom solution to address chronic pain, structural issues, or long‑term mobility goals.

My job isn’t to sell you something—it’s to help you understand what your body needs so you can make the best decision for your health.

Not Sure Where to Start? We Can Help You Decide What’s Right for You.

If you’re in Chandler, Gilbert, or Sun Lakes and wondering whether custom orthotics could make a difference, I’d be happy to walk you through it. No pressure, no jargon—just clear guidance based on your unique feet and your goals.