Foot Orthoses: An Update

In brief: Foot orthoses can be used to correct malalignment problems that contribute to injuries to athletes. There are three basic types of orthoses: soft, semiflexible, and rigid. Soft orthoses are often temporary and are used until it can be determined whether they can alleviate pain. For some people, soft supports are all that are necessary. For others, a permanent orthosis-either semiflexible or rigid-is necessary. Athletes usually get a semiflexible orthosis, because they don't tolerate the rigid ones very well. Many sports medicine specialists can fit soft supports, but only sports podiatrists should make the permanent ones.