What is Orthopedic

Footwear?
Orthopedic Footwear
• The root word comes from a greek word ortho which means to
straighten or align.
• So, in simple words Orthopedic footwear means any footwear that
improves and supports the functions of walking, standing or any
other activities.
• The orthopedic footwear provides support through aligning the body
and feet and giving stability and comfort as you step. When your feet
are correctly aligned, there is even weight distribution in the body
and increased comfort
History of Orthopedic Footwear ?
• The first invented orthotic footwear can be dated over 2000 years
ago.
• The first recorded use of arch supports was in 1865
• The first-ever true foot orthotics is credited to Boston Orthopedist
Royal Whitman and was debuted in 1905
Purposes of Orthopedic Footwear
Orthopedic shoes correct three main dysfunctions:

• a deformity (toes, unevenness of the length of the lower limbs, etc.)

• instability (following a toe amputation for example)
• difficulty in putting on shoes (rheumatoid arthritis, dwarfism, etc.)
 Do only injured people need orthopedic
footwear?

• Foot orthotics are not limited to one special group of people.

Everyone can benefit from this kind of footwear as everyone can
experience foot pain, knee pain, hip and back pain, and other injuries
requiring the urgent need of orthotics.