Stopped at the local Good Feet store on Saturday to investigate their claims of relief of knee and back pain via shoe inserts. Went through the routine, footprint on the grid and all that, and was given a demonstration of their product. Although it felt like I was walking on a golf ball, it DID seem that my knee and back experienced relief. Walked around the store, even went outside and ventured up and down the strip mall. THEN came the moment of truth... I asked the question- How much? and was totally shocked at the reply. They wanted almost $500 for the primary inserts as well as a pair that would act as a retainer. For 4 pieces of plastic to be worn two at a time! Any opinions, any options? Would be willing to spend the $$$ if I was SURE that this relief is not by power of suggestion, but the real thing. The sign on the table reading "ALL SALES ARE FINAL" raised the big caution flag in my mind. What thinkest the readers of Health Board?

Hi Knute,

The "ALL SALES ARE FINAL" sign is definitely a red flag. I think $500 is VERY steep for any orthotics not prescribed by a physician. Even the custom orthotics I got a few years ago from a podiatrist were only $400.

The only orthotics I ever found helpful were the full length Spenco orthotics ($25) that are available in many shoe repair shops in my area. The plastic is moldable by dipping the orthotic into boiling water and then bending it. You will probably need at least a half a size larger shoe as there is considerable padding that takes up space. My situation was quite a bit more serious and eventually required surgery but these helped considerably before that.

Make no mistake that there are no guarantees in any case, but the place you describe definitely has "Sleazeball" written all over it. My advice is the steer clear.

Ron

My custom orthotics, prepared from a "digitally imaged" footprint (ie; more high tech than the Good Feet footprint) is only $353 (and 100% covered by insurance). And they have a 30 day 100% gaurantee.

Me thinkest no-no-no...get thee to a doc who can prescribe something, if Spenco is not good enough.

I cringed when I read your post. It has scam written all over it. I got my orthotics from a podiatrist and they were $350. This is from a professional. They are custom made for my feet. Glad to say they made a world of difference.

Thought I might hear from someone with specific info regarding The Good Feet stores. They are a franchise with outlets all over the country.

Is there something special about "Alznner" orthotics versus those others have mentioned here? I have tried Spenco and they did not seem to provide support in quite the same places as the one I tried Saturday. It was giving pressure more toward the front of my arch.