Can Orthotics Cause Hip Pain?
Learn about the likelihood of your orthotics causing pain in your hips, why this might happen, and when you should be using orthotics for hip pain.


Published December 28, 2021.
Orthotics are designed to relieve pain, not cause them. However, as is often the case, many people complain about pain and trace it to the usage of an orthotic device.
While this is possible, the chances are that the pain results from an incorrect application of the orthotic or improper maintenance. At other times, the pain is because the orthotic was not designed by a professional with the requisite knowledge about body mechanics and positioning.
When Can Pain Occur From Custom Orthotics?
If orthotics are not correctly fitted or have not been adjusted properly (as with over-the-counter orthotics), pain becomes a possibility. The same is true if you have been misdiagnosed or if your orthotics were incorrectly manufactured. However, with custom orthotics from Upstep, pain can become a thing of the past.
Do Orthotics Cause Pain Initially?
In the same way that wearing a new shoe for the first time may cause some discomfort, a new orthotic too can cause some pain. This is why an initial break-in period of two weeks is advised to allow your body to get used to the material. So yes, while orthotics can cause pain initially, they do not have to. However, it's important to remember that new orthotics should never cause more pain than you were experiencing beforehand.
Importance of Custom-Fitted Orthotics
Regular orthotics are pre-designed and available for purchase in stores. While they can bring temporary relief with mild conditions, they can also distort your body alignment, worsening the condition and causing pain.
In their place, custom orthotics are better if you desire to avoid pain. This is because they are designed to fit and take into consideration any prior conditions you may have.
When to Use Orthotics for Hip Pain
It may be necessary to use orthotics for hip joint pain if you have any of the following:
- Bursitis
- Sciatica
- Bunions
- Osteoarthritis
- Misaligned kneecaps
- Flat feet
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Hip injuries
» Get control of your hip pain: Upstep Orthotics collection
Related Articles

Posterior Tibial Tendonitis: Symptoms, Causes, & Treatments
Babafemi Adebajo
February 17, 2023

How to Choose the Best Insoles for Shin Splints
Babafemi Adebajo
December 17, 2024

Overcoming Foot Fractures: Returning to Exercise Safely
Babafemi Adebajo
April 4, 2023

Best Insoles For Hip Pain Relief
Janik Sundstrom
May 14, 2025

Cycling Foot Pain: Conditions, Causes, and Cures
Jasrah Javed
February 25, 2025
Related Posts
Babafemi Adebajo
Can Orthotics Cause Knee Pain?
Staff Writer
Benefits of Orthotics for Basketball Players
Babafemi Adebajo
How Long Do Custom Orthotics Last?
Janik Sundstrom
Best Insoles For Hip Pain Relief
Babafemi Adebajo
How Long Does It Take To Make Custom Orthotics?
Babafemi Adebajo
Upstep Custom Orthotics for Flat Feet—2025 Review
Babafemi Adebajo
Custom Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis—2025 Review
Babafemi Adebajo