Orthotic Device

Abstract

An orthotic device having a plantar support surface to support the plantar (sole) of the forefoot portion of the foot. The plantar support surface has two walls on opposing sides. One wall supports the outer portion of the big toe and the other wall supports the outer portion of the small toe. These walls act immobilize the forefoot region of the foot and more importantly immobilize the big toe effectively eliminating or reducing pain associated with movement of the big toe due to conditions such as hallux limitus or hallux rigidus.

What is claimed: 
     
         1 . A foot orthotic device comprising:
 a plantar support surface to support the forefoot portion of the foot in said device;   said plantar support surface having a first lateral side along the big toe and a second lateral side along the small toe;   a first wall on the first lateral side and second wall on the second lateral side;   said first wall being of sufficient height to support the outer edge of the big toe; and   said second wall being of sufficient height to support the outer edge of the small toe.   
     
     
         2 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 1 , wherein the plantar support surface does not extend beyond the forefoot. 
     
     
         3 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 1 , wherein the plantar support surface extends from the forefoot to the midfoot. 
     
     
         4 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 1 , wherein the plantar support surface extends from the forefoot to the hindfoot. 
     
     
         5 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 1 , further comprising a means to secure said device to the foot. 
     
     
         6 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 5 , wherein said mean to secure comprises a flexible sleeve. 
     
     
         7 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 5 , wherein said mean to secure comprises a strap. 
     
     
         8 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 5 , wherein said mean to secure comprises a strap that is connected to the first wall and second wall. 
     
     
         9 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 5 , wherein said strap has elastic properties. 
     
     
         10 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 5 , wherein said strap is adjustable. 
     
     
         11 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 1 , wherein a rigid support is incorporated either into or onto an upper surface of the plantar support surface. 
     
     
         12 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 11 , wherein the rigid support is located under the where the first metatarsal/big toe would rest on the device. 
     
     
         13 . A foot orthotic device according to  claim 11 , wherein a soft cushion covering covers said rigid support.