Also known as insoles, shoe inserts, arch supports, and foot beds, foot orthoses are devices that fit into shoes and support or correct musculoskeletal deformities and postural deviations or abnormalities of the human body. The correct term is foot orthosis (plural - orthoses) but orthotic has become common usage over the last generation. The word derives from "ortho", meaning to straighten. Other types of orthotic devices include eyeglasses, false teeth, hearing aids and bracing for other body parts.

Foot orthoses are prescribed by Physicians and are dispensed by allied health care professionals such as Pedorthists, Podiatrists, Orthotists or Chiropodists. At Thera-Ped Foot and Ankle Clinics, the Pedorthist, on a Doctor's Referral will evaluate and design such appliances based on a case history, palpation exam, gait analysis and 3 dimensional molds of the client's feet. Orthotics come in a variety of shapes and can be made from many different materials. The Pedorthist will select these features based on the clients age, activity level, body mass and other health factors. From measurements the Pedorthist will determine the postings or corrections to be included in the appliance. In our facility the appliances are custom made by our lab using one or more materials laminated and molded over the corrected cast of the client's foot.

The cast or mold of the foot is central to the success of the device. There are a number of methods for taking the cast. The principle is to record the foot in as close to neutral position as possible and by posting or adding functional elements, to maintain the foot in an optimal position for efficeint movment.

Orthotics come in three basic types: functional, accommodative and a blend of  the two determined by the needs of the client. Functional orthotics tend to be firm to rigid and are made of materials such as carbon fibre or high density polymers. Accommodative orthotics are usually made from EVA (ethylene vinyl acetate) or polyethylyne foam of various densities and may include elements of support (metatarsal Pads) or cushion to help redistribute forces or relieve pressure areas. Blended orthotics, which are the kind we make most often, incorporate features from both.

If you would like to know more about orthotics and how they are used as a treatment method, take a look at the conditions and treatments sections of this site.