An orthotic is a great little device that can correct all kinds of foot positioning problems -- if you need one. Not every athlete needs an orthotic, but if you are prone to overuse injuries, there is a good chance you will benefit from a custom made orthotic. A qualified sports podiatrist can determine if an orthotic is right for you.

An orthotic is a custom made insert that fits inside a shoe and helps correct problems of instability while positioning the foot in an anatomically correct position for movement. Orthotics are typically prescribed when an individual has excessive pronation or supination. While everyone has a bit of pronation or supination with movement, excessive motion that may lead to an overuse injury. A professionally made orthotic insert will compensate for excessive movements or other abnormal foot mechanics.

Orthotics are often used to correct problems such as:

• abnormal foot mechanics
• supination
• pronation
• patella dislocation or maltracking
• structural abnormalities
• patellar tendonitis
• general knee pain
• ankle instability

While you can get an over-the-counter arch supports, don't be fooled into thinking that it is an orthotic. An orthotic is a prescription medical device that supports the entire foot, and will be custom fit to your foot based upon your diagnosis and need. An othotic should be obtained via perscription and fabricated by a qualified professional who performs a casting and evaluation. If the diagnosis is vague or incorrect, the orthotic will be less likely to help and in some cases may cause more harm. In general a sports podiatrist is the best person to determine if you need an orthotic and how to fit one for you.

There are two typical methods used to fabricate an orthotic. The first uses a plaster mold of the entire foot to make a moderately rigid insert. Another method uses a foam impression of the bottom of the foot, creating a more flexible insert. Regardless of the method used, the finished orthotic is adjusted by using small wedges to make corrections in foot alignment. The type of orthotic used depends upon your foot type, sports activity and body weight.