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What are the Different Types of Orthotics Inserts?

Alex Paul
Alex Paul

Orthotics are used to treat and correct problems with the feet. In general, three are two different categories of orthotics inserts: functional and accommodative. The type that’s used for a certain patient depends on the activities that will be performed, the problem that the orthotics are being used to solve and the footwear that will be worn. Functional orthotics inserts are used to support the foot and correct an issue with a person’s bio-mechanics. Accommodative orthotics are usually much softer and are used to cushion the foot to decrease mild pain that may be present.

Functional orthotics are designed to correct problems in the feet. For this reason they are typically made of a hard and durable material — usually a polymer. A functional orthotic can be used to correct a number of problems, depending on the shape. For example, over pronation — also called flat feet — is a common problem, and an orthotic can provide the extra support for the foot’s arch in order to prevent or help correct this condition. Certain types of deformity in the foot can also be corrected using functional orthotics inserts.

Shoe insoles.
Shoe insoles.

If custom functional orthotics are built for a person, they will be unique to his or her feet and designed to treat the specific problem. If, on the other hand, over-the-counter orthotics are used, it’s important for the patient to get a type that addresses their exact foot condition. For example, flat feet orthotics inserts are used to provide extra support to the arch area, while other types are designed to correct such issues as tendinitis or even knee problems.

Some orthotic inserts are functional, while others are accommodative.
Some orthotic inserts are functional, while others are accommodative.

Accommodative orthotics, in comparison to functional orthotics, provide relatively little support for the feet and are often only used for mild conditions. An accommodative orthotic is usually used for comfort rather than to correct a bio-mechanical defect although they are sometimes used to help correct foot conditions in children. There are several different types, including night bars, splints and gait plates, which are all used to correct problems with the toe either being too far in or out when walking.

Supportive shoes and orthotic inserts can aid mobility by preventing excessive supination or overpronation.
Supportive shoes and orthotic inserts can aid mobility by preventing excessive supination or overpronation.

There are many different conditions that can be helped using orthotics inserts. The foot plays an important role in the kinetic chain of the entire lower body and problems can cause pain and injuries further up. For example, runner’s knee, shin splints and IT band syndrome may be caused by a collapsed foot arch that is placing excess strain on the body. It’s essential for medical orthotics to be fitted by a professional, otherwise they can cause more problems. Although custom orthotics are more expensive, they are much more likely to be effective.

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    • Shoe insoles.
      Shoe insoles.
    • Some orthotic inserts are functional, while others are accommodative.
      By: MAST
      Some orthotic inserts are functional, while others are accommodative.
    • Supportive shoes and orthotic inserts can aid mobility by preventing excessive supination or overpronation.
      By: GVictoria
      Supportive shoes and orthotic inserts can aid mobility by preventing excessive supination or overpronation.
    • People who suffer from runner's knee may benefit from orthotics inserts.
      By: Dirima
      People who suffer from runner's knee may benefit from orthotics inserts.
    • Women who wear high heels on a regular basis may benefit from orthotics inserts.
      By: Sandor Kacso
      Women who wear high heels on a regular basis may benefit from orthotics inserts.
    • The best way to choose the proper orthotic inserts is to have the gait studied through biomechanic analysis.
      The best way to choose the proper orthotic inserts is to have the gait studied through biomechanic analysis.
    • Orthotic inserts can help prevent foot injury in athletes.
      By: icsnaps
      Orthotic inserts can help prevent foot injury in athletes.
    • Orthotics inserts may be used to ease the pain associated with a collapsed foot arch.
      By: nebari
      Orthotics inserts may be used to ease the pain associated with a collapsed foot arch.