The Good Feet store is under investigation for various reasons, as outlined in the action class lawsuit (Case 3:19-cv-02079-BEN-MSB) filed on October 3rd, 2019. These reasons include deceptive marketing and sales strategies, exorbitant costs, deceptive health assertions, non-disclosure of potential outcome disparities, dubious evaluation methods, a dubious refund policy, apprehensions regarding franchise management, and a dearth of openness in financial agreements.
The main reason why the Good Feet Store is under investigation is due to allegations of misleading advertising. The investigation is being pursued by Renee Sisk and others who are part of a class-action lawsuit against Dr.’s Own, Inc. and Good Feet Worldwide LLC, collectively referred to as “Defendants” or “Good Feet.”
Led by attorneys Jeffrey R. Krinsk (SBN 109234), David J. Harris, Jr. (SBN 286204), and John J. Nelson (SBN 317598) from FINKELSTEIN & KRINSK LLP, the lawsuit accuses Good Feet of manufacturing, advertising, and selling arch-supporting orthotics while making exaggerated claims about their effectiveness in treating various ailments.
In light of the mentioned Good Feet Store lawsuit, many people are questioning the pros and cons of the store, and the question of “Is the Good Feet Store legitimate?” becomes increasingly relevant. The Good Feet store under investigation prompts an exploration of the store’s reputation and its impact on consumer trust.
Why Was Good Feet Store Under Investigation?
The reasons why Good Feet Store is being investigated are listed below.
- Failure to disclose potential variations in results.
- Deceptive marketing practices.
- Customers complaints.
- Lack of refund policy.
- Labeling salespeople as “Arch Support Specialists”.
- Misleading health claims.
- Questionable fitting and evaluation practices.
- Financially strapping customers.
- Franchise control concerns.
1. What Does Good Feet Store Fail To Disclose?
Good Feet Store is a business that has been under investigation for failing to disclose that its orthotics may not work for everyone. Good Feet makes claims about the effectiveness of their shoe inserts for foot problems, such as back pain, knee pain, as well as plantar fasciitis, bunions, flat feet, and metatarsalgia.
In general, arch support insoles have been found to provide significant benefits, according to a 2015 study from the University of Mohaghegh Ardabili. The study, conducted by AmirAli Jafarnezhadgero, showed that these insoles can reduce peak vertical ground reaction force in the heel by 6.9% of body weight.
But it’s important to be aware that these products may not always work as expected. Additionally, it’s crucial to have any medical conditions evaluated by a healthcare professional before starting any treatment.
2. What Deceptive Marketing Practices Have Good Feet Store Been Accused Of?
Good Feet was under investigation due to allegations of deceptive marketing practices related to medical conditions. The company promotes its arch support as a remedy for various ailments, claiming that it can effectively exercise and strengthen muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
However, numerous customers have expressed dissatisfaction, stating that the orthotics provided little to no relief and, in some cases, exacerbated their pain and discomfort. The lawsuit further asserts that certain customers believe the orthotics have caused them significant harm.
Good Feet’s marketing creates the impression of a medical association by using anatomical graphics and suggesting that medical and scientific data support the positive outcome of their arch supports.
3. What Complaints Do Customers Have About Good Feet Store Arch Support?
Good Feet Store has been under scrutiny because many customers have complained about arch support, stating that they did not experience any improvement in their health condition. They feel misled by the company’s claims and believe that the orthotics do not live up to their advertised benefits and have qualities that do not exist.
If customers are not satisfied with the product, Good Feet allows exchanges for another Good Feet product but does not offer refunds. In some cases, they may authorize a partial refund conditioned upon the customer signing a non-disclosure agreement.
4. What refund policy does Good Feet have for dissatisfied customers?
Good Feet Store has been under review and faced criticism for its refund policy. If you buy orthotics from Good Feet Store and they don’t work for you, don’t expect a refund. Customers have no option to receive money back. They are limited to exchanging products for store credit. This credit can only be used to purchase other products offered by the company.
This can lead to frustration and dissatisfaction. In some cases, they may give a partial refund, but only if you sign a non-disclosure agreement and a release of claims.
This keeps negative information about their products from spreading, which doesn’t give consumers the full picture. Customers have reported a lack of transparency and poor customer service regarding returns and complaints.
To ensure you’re getting what you pay for, it’s best to speak with a Good Feet Store salesperson before making any purchases and research customer reviews online so you can make an informed decision about what’s right for your feet and individual needs.
5. How Do Good Feet Store Describe Its Salespersons?
According to the action class lawsuit, Good Feet describes its salespersons as “Arch Support Specialists,” but these individuals have little to no training in podiatry, anatomy, or related subjects that would qualify them as specialists. Customers expect to receive assistance from trained professionals but are met with salespeople who employ high-pressure tactics to sell the product.
According to the action class lawsuit:
“These purported “Arch Support Specialists” have little to no training in podiatry, anatomy, or other related subjects which would distinguish them as specialists.”
Case 3:19-cv-02079-BEN-MSB
When asked, what training Good Feet salespersons receive, the company primarily focuses on closing sales rather than providing in-depth knowledge about podiatry or foot conditions.
6. What Claims Do Good Feet Store Make About Its Arch Supports?
Good Feet claims that its orthotics are personalized and customized to meet the specific needs of each user while addressing foot conditions. They advertise that “no two feet are alike” and assure customers of a “personalized fit” for comfort.
When asked, “Are Good Feet’s orthotics personalized and customized for each user?”, in reality, Good Feet’s orthotics are pre-made and not individually tailored for each user. Despite the advertising claims, they are mass-produced, off-the-shelf arch supports, with a one-size-fits-all assessment and fitting process, rather than truly customized products. This contrasts with the personalized image created by their marketing efforts.
This photo shows my Good Feet Store arch supports that I bought over 3 years ago.
On the left, you see the picture from the front, whereas on your right is the back of the insole.
Although I find these inserts helpful for my foot issues such as sciatica and bunions, they are not custom orthotics. It’s important to note they are not intended to treat any medical conditions.
7. How Reliable Is The Fitting Assessment Conducted at Good Feet Store?
During the fitting and evaluation process, Good Feet Store salespeople typically ask customers to spend approximately 60-30 minutes. This evaluation involves a Footprint Analysis and Balance Test, where customers walk on a Harris Mat with ink underneath.
This photo shows how the Good Feet Store conducts it’s fitting and evaluation.
The ink transfers onto the paper, revealing a Footprint that indicates pressure points.
This photo shows the Good Feet Store Footprint Analysis.
Observe as the staff draws two lines upon this paper. The first line is placed at the base of the heel, while the second is situated beneath the metatarsal arch.
Although Harris Mat is an effective method of quantifying the magnitude of a flatfoot deformity., there are concerns regarding the depth of Good Feet Store evaluation. As stated in the action class lawsuit, it is suggested that the assessment lacks thoroughness, potentially leading to unsuitable product recommendations.
The company has been accused in a lawsuit of making hasty recommendations based on incomplete or inaccurate information, which could result in suboptimal outcomes for customers.
Angry customers express dissatisfaction with the ineffectiveness of the Good Feet arch supports, the high price, and the sales tactics used by Good Feet’s salespersons.
8. What Financing Option Does Good Feet Store Encourage Customers To Use?
Good Feet entices cash-strapped customers to open a line of credit with CareCredit, a high-interest rate credit provider. Good Feet and CareCredit have a financial agreement where Good Feet earns rewards when a customer opens a CareCredit account. Good Feet convinces desperate customers to use CareCredit, which charges exorbitant interest rates of up to 26.99%. Good Feet profits from this partnership with the credit provider every time a desperate customer opens a CareCredit account.
When asked how Good Feet and CareCredit are financially linked, it becomes evident that the two entities share a financial connection. Good Feet Store encourages customers facing financial difficulties to establish a CareCredit line of credit, which offers financing options for healthcare expenses, including Good Feet’s orthotics.
Good Feet Store gains financial advantages when customers choose to pay for their orthotics using CareCredit. This indicates a financial partnership between the Good Feet Store franchise and CareCredit, with Good Feet Store receiving compensation for customers who utilize CareCredit.
9. How does Good Feet exert control over its franchisees?
Good Feet exerts control over its franchisees by mandating training for franchise managers and requiring franchisees to use Good Feet’s sales tactics, marketing schemes, in-store signage, and interior design. The company also runs nationwide advertisements on behalf of its franchisees.
What Was The Cost Of The Investigation Of The Good Feet Store?
While the specific cost of the investigation conducted at the Good Feet Store in 2019 remains undisclosed, it is worth noting the expenses related to a lawsuit in 2005. In June 2005, the Good Feet Store franchise reimbursed the state of Virginia a total of $4,104. (SEC-2005-00005 and SEC-2005-00006).
How much do Good Feet arch support systems cost?
One claim regarding the cost of Good Feet arch support systems is that they are priced at around $1,000.00 per package, which is significantly higher compared to non-customized arch supports. The investigation into Good Feet Store also involves concerns about the high prices charged.
When asked about the actual Good Feet Store price, it varies depending on the specific product. Generally, the prices range from $200 to $500 per pair. These arch supports are available for purchase individually, as well as in a multiple pair 3-Step system. For instance, a package containing three pairs of Good Feet arch supports is priced at $1,299.
What Are The Benefits Of The Good Feet Store?
Despite the fact that Good Feet Store has been under investigation in the past, there are several positive aspects to highlight. The Good Feet Store is known for offering high-quality arch support.
Their products are crafted using a combination of high-density plastic and carbon fiber, providing flexibility, cushioning, and support. Many customers find the arch support from Good Feet Store can be used with various types of footwear such as tennis shoes, dress shoes, and boots.
When considering the pros and cons of the Good Feet Store, it’s important to acknowledge that the franchise benefits from the expertise of industry professionals. Dr. Pamela Mehta, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, serves as the Good Feet Medical Advisor. With her specialization in sports injuries and joint arthritis, Dr. Mehta brings valuable insights to the store.
She emphasizes the significance of proper arch support in preventing foot, ankle, knee, hip, and back pain. Dr. Mehta’s involvement demonstrates the store’s commitment to ensuring the efficacy of its products.
How Does The Investigation Impact The Reputation Of The Good Feet Store?
The investigation surrounding the Good Feet Store had the potential to affect its reputation, although the exact impact remains uncertain. Good Feet Store customer reviews are varied, leading to a nuanced perception of the store. It is important to note that prior to the investigation, the Good Feet Store had a positive reputation, as evidenced by its 83% trustworthiness rating on ComplaintsBoard.