What is the primary purpose of a medial flange on an orthotic?

The primary purpose of a medial flange on an orthotic is to provide support to the arch. The medial flange is designed to enhance stability and alignment of the foot's medial (inner) side, effectively helping to maintain the structural integrity of the arch during weight-bearing activities. By offering this additional support, the medial flange can alleviate stress on the arch and reduce the risk of overpronation or other alignment-related issues, contributing significantly to overall foot health and comfort.

While options such as resisting lateral slipping or controlling rearfoot supination address important aspects of foot function and stability, they do not specifically describe the primary role of the medial flange. The medial flange's scope is focused more on providing arch support and structural reinforcement to the medial aspect of the orthotic, making it crucial for maintaining proper foot mechanics.