What are Orthotics?

Definition of a Foot Orthotic: A foot orthotic is an in-shoe medical device which is designed to alter the magnitudes and temporal patterns of the reaction forces acting on the plantar aspect of the foot in order to allow more normal foot and lower extremity function and to decrease pathologic loading on the structural components of the foot and lower extremity during weightbearing activites. (K.Kirby, 1/7/1998)

Using the definition of a foot orthotic above, foot orthotics can also be divided into three very different types of “orthotics” – custom, customised and off-the-shelf.  The educated consumer should be aware of each type and then make an informed decision on what type of treatment to have.  We like to give our patients a choice on their treatment program. Custom orthotics are a specialty of the Entire Podiatry clinics. 

Some Common conditions treated with foot orthotics include:
        Heel and arch pain
        Excessive foot pronation (flat-feet)
        Excessive supination (high arched feet)
        Biomechanical Abnormalities
        Children's problems including in-toe, out-toe and flat feet
        Pain in the ball of the foot
        Foot pain and fatigue
        Leg pain and fatigue
        Knee pain
        Back pain
        Sports injuries
        Arthritis
        Big toe joint pain
        Achilles tendonitis
        Unstable ankles
        Shin splints
        Bunions
        Children's growing pains
        Ankle injuries

        Back, hip and knee pain as associated with foot function