A one-piece molded orthotic insert having a shape for controlling and directing
the motions of the foot. The insert has a unitary body that is formed of a rigid,
resiliently flexible, substantially noncompressible material, so that the insert
will flex with the shoe but will not compress or deform, so that a correct shape
is maintained through the gait cycle. The insert includes a raised arch portion
that is supported by a plurality of underlying, vertical ribs. The ribs are spaced
apart and free from connection with one another, so that the lower edges of the
ribs are able to spread as the insert flexes along its lengthwise axis, so that
the insert flexes generally uniformly when walking and without distortion of its
shape. The layer of material overlying the ribs has a thickness generally similar
to that in the reset of the body, and the ribs also have a generally similar thickness,
facilitating manufacture by injection molding. A depending ridge extends around
the lower surface of the insert for pressing into an insole so as to stabilize
the insert against sliding or shifting in the shoe. The present invention provides
many of the advantages of a custom orthotic using a more economical insert, and
due to its thin vertical height it is especially suited for use with dress shoes.