Orthotics: What It Is and What to Expect
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor provides Orthotics?
An orthopedic surgeon who treats the foot and ankle, or a podiatrist (a foot doctor), can recommend orthotics. Many practitioners, including prosthetists, orthotists, and certified pedorthists, can make custom ones. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What it is
Orthotics, also called orthoses, are devices worn to relieve pain linked to foot and ankle deformities and to help prevent or delay surgery. Most people think of shoe inserts or arch supports. Orthotics can also include foot pads, ankle braces, and similar items.
An orthotic device can be a foot pad or heel insert bought at a pharmacy or sporting goods store. It can also be a custom-molded, individually designed shoe insert or ankle brace.
- Foot pads are the simplest devices.
- Shoe inserts, also called inlays, insoles, foot beds, and arch supports, are placed into the shoe.
- Ankle braces are devices you put on before fitting into a shoe.
Why a doctor might recommend it
Orthotic devices may be recommended to align and support the foot or ankle. They may also be recommended to correct or accommodate foot deformities and to improve the overall function of the foot or ankle.
Orthotics can change the pressure on certain parts of the foot to relieve symptoms.
- Foot pads are used for conditions that often cause pain at the front of the foot.
- Shoe inserts are used for problems such as arthritis and flat feet.
- Ankle braces are used for problems such as ankle arthritis and ankle instability.
- A heel flare can be used to increase support and help prevent ankle sprains.
- Heel cushions can help absorb impact and relieve stress on the heel and ankle when you walk or run.
How to prepare
- Talk with your doctor before you buy or use an orthotic device on your own.
- Your foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon may suggest starting with less expensive off-the-shelf orthotics and moving to custom-made ones if your symptoms and diagnosis require it.
- The person making your orthotic will ask you to bring your shoes to the office for planning and fitting.
- Talk with the practitioner before you buy new shoes, because not all shoe types work properly with orthoses.
What happens during it
Some inserts need to be shaped to fit one person's foot. In the past, plaster molds of the foot were used to build a custom-made orthosis. Now, computerized foot analysis is often used to make orthoses more precise.
Adjusting the orthotic and fitting it properly is typically part of the service.
Recovery
A period of adjustment is required for any new shoe inserts. An appropriate period of breaking in should be allowed for a new insert.
The inserts and the shoes work as a unit, because inserts take up room inside the shoe. This leaves less room for the foot.
If a new insert causes pain or pressure on the foot, the practitioner can make adjustments to improve the fit.
Risks and side effects
Choosing the wrong type of device on your own could change the way you walk and cause problems instead of curing them.
Who performs it
A foot and ankle orthopaedic surgeon may recommend orthotics. Many practitioners, including prosthetists, orthotists, and certified pedorthists, can make custom orthoses.
Common questions
Do orthotics work?
It depends on the problem. Orthotics can change the pressure on certain parts of the foot to relieve symptoms. This is especially true for people with diabetes and others at risk for skin breakdown. Certain ankle braces are good at controlling motion and can help take pressure off an arthritic joint.
Are custom orthotics better than ones from the store?
Not always, because in some cases an over-the-counter device can be just as effective. Custom orthoses are far more expensive than off-the-shelf devices. They last much longer and provide more support or correction.
Can I buy orthotics without seeing a doctor?
It is best to talk with your doctor first. Choosing the wrong type of device could cause problems instead of curing them.
Do I need to bring my shoes when I get custom orthotics?
Yes, the person making your orthotic will ask you to bring your shoes.
How does a direct primary care or concierge doctor fit in?
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
Sources
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons - OrthoInfo - Orthotics
- FootCareMD (American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society) - Orthotics
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
