@Podiatrirst question. orthotics has helped some, definetly reduced sciatica and Achilles pains. I still cannot walk without pain, been dealing with it 5-6 years. I am terribly clumsy as well, truly a falling hazard. Good luck, I can tell you that your "break-in" period of 2-3 weeks with the orthotic inserts just might be hellishly painful at first as your bones and connective tissues are forced to make adjustments, THEN you should be noticeably "better." I go nowhere without the orthotics.

Also, If you shoe heels wear down on outside, this is pronation. Wears down on inside, supination

Have you ever thought of foot pronation?
Pronation of the foot refers to turning of the foot outwards, so that weight is borne on the medial part of the foot. Supination of the foot refers to turning of the sole of the foot inwards. There are heel pads for this. One side raises the outer or inner side higher. It has helped me for the outer pronation.

let me know if this helps...I have done the exact thing you have done....purchasing better arch & heel support shoes. Seems like they help some but I still hurt or ankles feel like they are going to snap, so I begin to stumble. My toes are curling with terrible shooting pains. I have been wondering if a podiatrist would help as well. So far my Dr. says I have rheumatoid arthritis,fibro, and neuropothy .

I hope this works for you.

sending you gentle hugs!