DeSimone Foot and Ankle Centre, Inc.
http://www.desimonefootcentre.com
Orthotics, also known as orthoses, refers to any device inserted into a shoe, ranging from
felt pads to custom-made shoe inserts that correct an abnormal or irregular, walking
pattern. Sometimes called arch supports, orthotics allow people to stand, walk, and run more
efficiently and comfortably. While over-the-counter orthotic are available and may help
people with mild symptoms, they normally cannot correct the wide range of symptoms that
prescription foot orthoses can since they are not custom made to fit an individual's unique
foot structure.
Orthotic devices come in many shapes, sizes, and materials and fall into three main
categories: those designed to change foot function, those that are primarily protective in
nature, and those that combine functional control and protection.
Rigid Orthotics
Rigid orthotic devices are designed to control function and are used primari
