Foot orthoses are commonly used to treat a range of foot disorders from overpronation and collapsed arches to plantar fasciitis and other causes of heel pain. The scientific evidence shows that they usually are pretty good at helping many of the disorders as long as they are indicated for that problem, Foot orthotics frequently get used to support the foot, when support of the foot might have absolutely nothing to do with the problem that the individual could have. This can lead to them being misused and unnecessarily blamed for treatment failures. Another problem is that there are various sorts of foot orthotics as well as within every type of foot orthotic, there is an almost unlimited variance in the design features which might be integrated into them.

If even one of those design features is not good for the individual, then the prospects of that foot orthotic doing any good is probably reduced. This is why the option of the various designs is really dependant on the experience and expertise of the clinician. The clinician will select the design features required for the individual and if the device needs to be custom made for the individual or if a premade more affordable foot orthotic can be used. When it comes to custom made orthotics, the podiatrist needs to take a plaster cast or laser scan of the foot held in specific positions for the foot orthotic to be made on. When it comes to the style of the device various elements are taken into consideration. For example, if the patient has posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, then something like a MOSI type foot orthotic is necessary. The MOSI has unique modifications to deal with the range of problems that occur in that disorder. If the problem is associated with a lack of shock absorption, then the orthotic has to be designed to cater to that. The range of options is endless and depends upon the problem present and the wishes of the treating medical professional.