An orthotic refers to anything that straightens a body part. When a podiatrist refers to an orthotic, it means a custom insole made specifically for a patient with a prescription to address any biomechanical instability. The goal of a custom orthotic is to provide efficiency and stability to the foot and ankle, allowing it to function as optimally as possible.

Inefficiency and instability is a primary cause of foot pain, such as heel pain and Achilles tendinitis, and deformities of the feet, such as bunions and hammertoes. By using a custom orthotic to restore stability to the foot and ankle, inflammation and pain can be controlled and deformities can be prevented from getting worse. After surgery, a custom orthotic will help to return stability to the foot and prevent deformities from returning over time.