Orthotics and foot appliances are devices designed to support, protect and improve the function of the feet. They are commonly used in podiatry to help manage a wide range of foot conditions, reduce pain, improve walking comfort and correct or accommodate problems with foot posture and movement.

Orthotics are devices placed inside footwear to provide support, redistribute pressure and influence the way the feet function during standing, walking and running. They can be supplied as prefabricated insoles or made-to-measure devices tailored to an individual's foot shape, symptoms and specific needs. Depending on the condition, orthotics may help reduce strain on muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints, while providing additional cushioning and stability.

Orthotics can be particularly useful for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, flat feet, high arches, heel pain, some forms of tendon dysfunction and certain pressure-related problems associated with bunions or diabetes. For example, an orthotic may help redistribute pressure away from a painful area of the foot, while a cushioned heel insert may reduce impact during walking. However, orthotics do not cure every foot condition, and their effectiveness depends on the individual's diagnosis, footwear and overall treatment plan. Torbay Podiatry have specialists in this area.