Foot Orthosis
Also written as: FO — Foot Orthosis
A device worn inside the shoe that supports, aligns, or corrects the mechanical function of the foot.
Full Definition
A foot orthosis (FO) is an intra-shoe device ranging from simple prefabricated insoles to custom-moulded rigid or semi-rigid shells. In editorial practice the term is the preferred clinical designation over informal alternatives such as 'insole,' 'arch support,' or 'orthotics' (used as a noun for the device). The plural 'foot orthoses' is standard; 'orthotics' as a plural noun referring to the devices themselves is acceptable in semi-formal contexts but should not appear in formal clinical documents. The abbreviation FO is widely used in prescription and fabrication paperwork.
Usage
Usage note: 'Orthotics' as a plural noun for the physical devices is informal; in clinical documents, use 'foot orthoses' or 'orthotic devices.' The plural of 'orthosis' is 'orthoses,' not 'orthosises.'
In Context
- "The prescription specified a custom-moulded foot orthosis with a 4 mm medial heel post for bilateral overpronation." — Orthotics prescription
- "The document used 'orthotics' to refer to the device itself; this was amended to 'foot orthosis' to reflect formal clinical nomenclature." — Editorial correction note