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Heel insert

Orthotic devices may be recommended for several reasons, including:

• Aligning and supporting the foot or ankle
• Correcting or accommodating foot deformities
• Improving the overall function of the foot or ankle

For example:

• A wedge inserted into the inner (medial) side of the sole of a shoe can be used to help support a flatfoot, thus reducing the risk of tendinitis.
• An ankle-foot brace can help relieve the pain of rheumatoid arthritis in the heel or ankle.
• A heel flare can be used to increase support and help prevent ankle sprains.
• Heel cushions can help absorb impact and relieve stress on the heel and ankle when you walk or run.

University of California Biomechanics Laboratory (UCBL) full contact orthosis

Although custom orthoses are far more expensive than off-the-shelf devices, they last much longer and provide more support or correction. In some cases, however, an over-the-counter device can be just as effective — especially when combined with a stretching and exercise program — and you can get one more quickly.

In the past, plaster molds of the foot were used to construct a custom-made orthosis. Now, computerized foot analysis is often used to develop orthoses with more precision.

The chart below shows which orthotic devices are commonly recommended for various foot conditions.

Consult your physician before buying or using an orthotic device on your own; if you select the wrong type of device, you could change the mechanics of your gait and cause problems instead of curing them.