Foot orthoses are a specially fitted insert or footbed that you insert into your shoe. Also commonly referred to as "orthotics" these orthoses provide support for the foot by distributing pressure or realigning foot joints while standing, walking or running. A great body of information exists within the podiatry and pedorthotic community describing the sciences that might be used to aid people with foot problems as well as the impact "orthotics" can have on knee, hip, and spine conditions. As such they are often used by athletes to relieve symptoms of a variety of inflammatory conditions that affect soft tissue such as plantar fasciitis. They may also be used in conjunction with properly fitted orthopedic footwear in the prevention of foot ulcers in the at-risk diabetic foot.