Why do some podiatric patients need custom orthotics? According to an article published in the journal Arthritis Care and Research, foot pain affects between nine and 30 percent of the global population. If you're one of the many adults with heel, toe, or another type of foot pain, take a look at what you need to know about orthotics. What Are Orthotics And Are They All the Same? Orthotics are special shoe inserts that sit under either the entire foot or heel.