Orthotics are insoles that you can slip into your shoes in order to correct common foot ailments, or to provide extra support when recovering from foot surgery. Whether orthotics are custom made or purchased at the local pharmacy in a two-pack, these cushioning devices go a long way to alleviating pain and unnecessary stress on the bones, ligaments and tendons of the foot and lower leg. Orthotics can change the angle at which the foot strikes the ground, or properly align the foot and ankle. They can be designed to change foot function (rigid orthotics), or simply to protect the foot (soft orthotics), or to do both (semi-rigid orthotics).

Rigid Orthotics

Rigid Orthotics are made from material such as plastic or compressed carbon fiber. They are usually made by the podiatrist who takes a cast of a patient's foot and creates the orthotic to ensure a custom fit. They control motion in two major foot joints directly below the ankle and are often used to prevent excessive pronation (a condition that occurs when the arch collapses and turns inward as the foot makes contact with the ground) and to provide the necessary height and support for people with uneven limbs. Rigid orthotics can often eliminate pain in the back, lower and upper legs triggered by misalignment in the foot.

Soft Orthotics

Soft Orthotics are made from a soft, pliable material such as cork, leather, plastic foams and rubber. Some insoles are even made from viscoelastic polymers ? a gel-like substance. They are designed to absorb shock and to alleviate pressure either in the joints or surrounding sore spots on the foot (corns, bunions, etc.).

They tend to wear down faster than rigid orthotics and will need to be replaced more frequently. They also tend to be bulkier than rigid orthotics so it is important to purchase shoes only after trying them on with your insoles. In a situation where only one foot needs extra support, two different sized shoes may be necessary. Specific examples of foot ailments that tend to require soft orthotics include: Plantar fasciitis (heel pain or heel spur), runner's knee, cavus foot (high arch) and foot problems related to Diabetes.

Semi-Rigid Orthotics

Semi-Rigid Orthotics are made from alternating layers of soft and rigid material, usually leather and cork reinforced by silastic. They are typically used as an aid to athletes, or other people who exert an above-average amount of stress on their bones and joints and who want to maximize balance and agility.