Dr. Scholl's Custom Fit Orthotics Footmapping Machine - Does It Work?

Dr. Scholls now has a Footmapping kiosk in stores so you can have a machine recommend the correct custom insoles for your shoe. What you do is take your shoes off and stand on the platform. The machines are located primarily in select Wal-Mart stores and CVS/Pharmacy stores. This machine will take readings about your feet and how you stand. It will identify any problems (such as over-pronating or under pronation) to make a recommendation for you. The orthotic recommendation will let you know which of the products on display will suit your needs best.

Orthotics help correct problems related to your feet. If you are flat-footed, it is likely you "over-pronate" which means you need added support in the arch area. This does not mean you need a high arch shoe, but the opposite. You need support and resistance to prevent rolling your foot in the wrong direction. People who "under-pronate" have high arches and roll their ankles outward.

This new innovative machine is designed for public easy access to custom product. Normally, these machines require the assistance of a sales associate in better running shoe stores. Custom orhtotics can replace your current insole in a shoe.

This site was started for people to post their experiences with product for other shoppers. As a customer myself, I often research product online and like to hear what other people say about it. This site is not affiliated with Dr. Scholl's.

The video here I found on YouTube of a customer using the machine and giving their personal feedback.

Dr. Scholls site for locations of these machines in the United States(<-click here).

You will see a box in the right corner to search by zip code.Many of them are located in Wal-mart stores in the pharmacy area. These machines include display with product in each store.

Looking for locations in Canada? use this link -> Dr. Scholl's Canada

I tested the machine out and was impressed by how it measured. You have to take a couple different measurements (one standing with both feet, and standing on each individual foot). The screen gives you a visual read of the pressure map of your foot and provides an orthotic product recommendation from their assortment for your individual needs (i.e. I had a high arch and low pressure on my foot and I was recommended the lowest number style).

The orthotic styles have numbers and the low number is for high arches and the highest number is for people with flat feet and need the most pronation control. I don't think this machine will tell you if you don't need an extra orthotic for support because it would never hurt you to have it especially if you are on your feet all day, so it appears they have models for people with neutral foot position as well. It must be selling well because I saw a few of the orthotics were out of stock already.

The cost of Dr. Scholl's Orthotics at the station is $50 and there are 14 different support types. It may seem like a lot compared to other Dr. Scholl's product, but is significantly less expensive than other custom orthotics. You can get custom orthotics from a Dr. or service for $200-$500 and they are personalized for your individual feet. These reasonably priced orthotics do work for many people and if you have concerns about your needs, check with your doctor.

If you are not interested in custom orthotics are just looking for basic cushion or support, Dr. Scholl's makes several lines of insoles. These can be cut to size for your exact shoe and come in men's or women's. Types include: Back Pain Relief, Tri-Comfort, Adjustable Arch pain relief and many more. These can be less then $20 and good if you need insoles for only one pair of shoes. Insoles can be a good way to get more miles out of running shoes also. Many running shoes you think need replacing may just need new insoles.

Other orthotics in local retail locations include The Walking Company in over 200 retail locations and prices range from $44.95-$79.95 for premium quality product with a 6 month warranty. If you have continuing knee of foot problems or require durable and serious support then I would recommend shopping around better shoe retail store like The Walking Company or even medical supply stores who inventory several sizes and styles of orthotics. Sometimes custom orthotics from a doctor's office are the most expensive option but a positive solution for individuals with back/spine misalignment or those with support needs a store brand can't satisify.

I have heard from people who have made a purchase that the insoles need to be worn a couple of times a week and take some breaking-in. Check the return policy of the store when you make the purchase but give them a chance to break in if they are uncomfortable for you. Also, wear as a replacement insole to your current shoe instead of placing on top of your current insoles or remove the insoles that came with your shoes.

If you have flat feet or high arches there are some types of shoes you should avoid. Filp flops, the incorrect type of athletic shoes and high heels may not be appropriate for your feet. If you have a flat foot I would advise finding an athletic shoe designed for 'stability'. Those with high arch need cushion. I sold running shoes for a couple of years and the type of shoe you wear can make or break your athletic performance or just hurt your feet and knees in general.

If you want to continue learning, please visit my shoe guide. If you are on your feet during the day and need the additional support, wearing a supportive athletic shoe if perfectly fine even if you are not participating in athletic activities.