Orthotics are orthopaedic devices designed to treat or adjust various biomechanical foot disorders. They may be simple, commercially made devices, such as cushioned heel cups or insoles for shoes sold over-the-counter in drug stores or other retail establishments, however the best orthotics, are custom-tailored devices specifically crafted to meet the needs of a particular individual.
This is done by making an impression of the foot called a cast. The impressions in the cast duplicate any misalignments in the foot. Specialists in an orthotic laboratory can then correct the misalignments with compensation and stabilization techniques. The finished orthotic is then placed in the patient’s shoe and helps keep the foot in proper alignment. Depending upon the patient’s needs, the orthotic may have padding to cushion the foot against the weight of the body.
Types of Orthotics
In general, podiatrists group orthotics into four broad categories.
- Functional orthotics incorporate special wedges to adjust the heel or forefoot, correcting defects in the arch that cause poor shock absorption, such as excessive pronation (flattening of the arch) or supination (an arch that is too high).
- Weight-dispersive or accommodative orthotics typically feature padding designed to relieve pain caused by excessive pressure on the metatarsal heads. Other accommodative orthotics are designed to treat pain and pressure on the sesamoid bones, collapsed tarsal bones, sores and chronically inflamed toes.
- Supportive orthotics are arch supports usually prescribed to treat problems of the plantar arch.
- Early childhood orthotics are special devices designed to correct biomechanical walking problems identified in young children. They include splints, gait plates and night bars – devices used to hold a child’s feet and legs at a proper angle while sleeping, thus promoting corrective adjustment for excessive toe-in or toe-out walking.
