Arch support independent of footwear

Abstract

This device elevates the midsection of the foot when shoeless, addressing congenital flatness, or lapsing or pronation in the arch. The device, which can be constructed of various materials, does not support the metatarsus or heel, and is attached to the foot by lateral straps or stretchable bands, either singular or in two pieces closed by a snap, buckle, velcro or similar fastener, and adding a heel or, ankle strap or band if greater stability is desired. It may be worn inside or over stockings, and feature assorted shapes, textures, coloration, and decoration. The device can also serve as an orthotic for barefoot runners or dancers by means of longitudinal extension, with openings under the metatarsus and heel so these areas may touch the ground or floor, and employ additional straps or bands. This device may be contraindicated as a diagnostic or therapeutic aid, without the intent of medical application.

1 . A footwear device comprising:
 a. a raised midsole element, tapered at its longitudinal ends,   b. wherein the footwear device does not support the wearer's heel, nor metatarsals from contact with the ground or floor by way of surfaces defining openings under the user's heel and metatarsals;   c. a plurality of straps providing lateral attachment of the midsole element to the wearer's foot;   d. the straps comprising a midfoot strap and a midfoot strap;   e. and   f. the footwear device for supporting a wearer's foot when shoeless.   
     
     
         2 . The footwear device as recited in  claim 1  wherein the midsole element and the plurality of straps are molded as a unitary structure. 
     
     
         3 . The footwear device as recited in  claim 1  wherein the plurality of straps are stretchy bands. 
     
     
         4 . The footwear device as recited in  claim 1  wherein the midsole element further comprises a raised portion at each lateral side of the midsole element. 
     
     
         5 . The footwear device as recited in  claim 4  wherein the midsole element is thicker in a vertical direction at the raised portions than the remainder of the midsole element. 
     
     
         6 . The footwear device as recited in  claim 1  further comprising a heel strap having two ends connected to the midfoot strap at both ends. 
     
     
         7 . A footwear device comprising:
 a. a raised midsole element, tapered at its longitudinal ends,   b. wherein the footwear device does not support the wearer's heel, nor metatarsals from contact with the ground or floor;   c. a midfoot strap providing lateral attachment of the midsole element to the wearer's foot; and   d. the footwear device for supporting a wearer's foot when shoeless.   
     
     
         8 . The footwear device as recited in  claim 7  wherein the midsole element and strap are molded as a unitary structure. 
     
     
         9 . The footwear device as recited in  claim 7  wherein the midsole element further comprises a raised portion at each lateral side of the midsole element. 
     
     
         10 . The footwear device as recited in  claim 9  wherein the midsole element is thicker in a vertical direction at the raised portions than the remainder of the midsole element. 
     
     
         11 . The footwear device as recited in  claim 7  further comprising a heel strap having two ends connected to the midfoot strap at both ends.