Ask Stu: FAQ
Meet Stu - Founder / Inventor
I’m Stuart Sackowitz, Orthopedic Specialist and the owner of several specialty shoe stores. I have been offering loyal customers high quality comfort footwear for over 40 years. My background is in orthopedics. Our story begins with my personal experience playing golf. I tore my Achilles tendon. It left me with a noticeable limp and I was no longer able to walk the golf course. I could barely get through the round even with a cart! Severe discomfort in my feet and legs prompted me to think about developing something that would allow me to manage the pain in my feet and legs and get back to playing golf. After a long and tedious design process and years in the making, I created an orthotic that features balance, stability, proper weight shift and our “ENERGY RETURN SYSTEM”, specifically for golfers. My dream has become a reality! These orthotics have an Energy Return System which creates a spring-like effect, relieves foot pain and energizes your whole body! Your feet will feel incredible and it will relieve stress on your knees, hips and back as well. These fabulous pads slip right into golf shoes.
My doctor told me to get a custom orthotic. Is this for me?
Yes! My orthotics self adjust to 95% of all feet. Also, knowing that custom orthotics can cost up to $450 a pair or more, I have been focused on making this a much lower priced but competitive option for custom wearers. Of course they probably will not work on feet with gross deformities, since a true custom fit is the best solution in that situation.
How is your orthotic different from others I've seen?
My orthotics elongate slightly providing full contact with the entire foot… truly creating balance and stability. My patented energy return system belongs only to us, and can’t be duplicated by others. What this means is, when you step down my orthotics push back, creating a gentle spring like effect. I created this product after more than 40 years of experience with all types of feet and foot issues.
Will these help my foot pain from being on my feet all day at work?
Yes…plantar fasciitis, heel pain, back pain, knee pain and neuropathy all can be greatly improved – if not eliminated – wearing my orthotics.
Your website talks mostly about golf. Are these only helpful for golfers?
No, not at all. I’m a golfer and came up with the design for Pine Valley Orthotics in response to my own trouble on the golf course. While they have helped me and many other golfers they are also great for walking, running, tennis, and any other physical activity. As a matter of fact, we’ve sold 1000’s of pair to nurses who are on their feet all day, often for 12+ hour shifts!
How long can I expect your orthotic to last?
With moderate wear, Pine Valley Orthotics have a life expectancy of approximately 2 years. Of course, frequency of wear will ultimately determine how often you will want to replace them.