orthotic

1 of 2

adjective

or·​thot·​ic ȯr-ˈthä-tik How to pronounce orthotic (audio)
: of, relating to, or being an orthosis or orthotic
orthotic braces
orthotic devices that restrict movement
orthotic shoe inserts
also : of or relating to orthotics
orthotic correction

orthotic

2 of 2

noun

plural orthotics
: orthosis
Doctors made us aware of the scoliosis forming and a need for orthotics that would improve his spine.Christie Willhite
especially : a supportive device inserted into a shoe usually to stabilize the foot, correct alignment, or provide cushioning
To better support the arch and absorb shock, specially designed shoe inserts (orthotics) are often recommended. Food & Fitness Advisor
Some patients experience discomfort from the stiffness of many orthotics, but it disappears as the patient's foot adapts to orthotic control and the device settles into the shoe. James F. Eggold
… the fabric-covered orthotic provides arch support so you tire less easily. Maggie Spilner

Examples of orthotic in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Plus, these come with additional orthotic insoles, spacers, and an arch booster for a customizable fit. Trina Gray, People.com, 24 Oct. 2024 Best Early Luggage Deals to Shop Before Prime Day — Save Up to 73% on Tumi, Samsonite, and More Vionic Tokyo Sneakers $130 $58 at Amazon The classic Tokyo athletic sneaker has a breathable mesh upper and removable orthotic insert that provides optimal arch support and comfort. Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 7 Oct. 2024
Noun
Custom orthotics can also provide additional relief. Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 24 Oct. 2024 If the pain becomes severe, consult a podiatrist for treatments like physical therapy, orthotics or medications. Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 24 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for orthotic 

Word History

Etymology

Noun

New Latin orthosis

First Known Use

Adjective

1955, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1981, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of orthotic was in 1955

Dictionary Entries Near orthotic

Cite this Entry

“Orthotic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/orthotic. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

orthotic

1 of 2 adjective
or·​thot·​ic ȯr-ˈthät-ik How to pronounce orthotic (audio)
: of, relating to, or being an orthosis or orthotic
a thoracolumbar orthotic brace
orthotic devices that restrict movement
orthotic shoe inserts
also : of or relating to orthotics
orthotic therapy
In the absence of radiculopathies or nerve entrapments, treatment should be directed to mechanical and orthotic correction of postures and locomotion accompanied by methods of pain relief and control. Laura K. Smith, Neurological Rehabilitation

orthotic

2 of 2 noun
: orthosis
Doctors made us aware of the scoliosis forming and a need for orthotics that would improve his spine.Christie Willhite, Chicago Daily Herald
especially : a supportive device inserted into a shoe usually to stabilize the foot, correct alignment, or provide cushioning
In some cases doctors recommend orthotics—custom-made shoe inserts that help redistribute weight and take pressure off the bunion. Richard Trubo, Harvard Health Medical Letter
The most commonly encountered problems with the orthotics themselves were blister formation, edge irritation, heel slippage from the extra bulk in the shoe, and discomfort from the stiffness of the orthotic. James F. Eggold, The Physician and Sportsmedicine
You might also need orthotics to align your foot properly in your boots and reduce stress on the knee, particularly if your foot pronates (rotates inward). Mark L. Fuerst, Food & Fitness Advisor
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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