Orthotics is the application of external devices to a part of the body to either maintain or alter the position of a joint or body part. They are most commonly used to reduce pain and discomfort, improve mobility and function, and to reduce risk of further injury.
There is a very wide variety of conditions that may require the use of an orthosis, and they can be fitted to almost any part of the body, from the feet all the way up to the face and head. You might require an orthosis if you have any of the following conditions:
Plantar fasciitis
General foot/ankle pain
Tendon or Ligament injury
Fracture
Osteoarthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Diabetes
Talipes Equinovarus (clubfoot)
Multiple Sclerosis
Polio
Stroke
Cerebral Palsy
Down Syndrome
Spina Bifida
And many others