How can wearing orthotics influence athletic performance?

Wearing orthotics can significantly influence athletic performance primarily by addressing biomechanical issues that may hinder an athlete's efficiency and increase the risk of injury. Orthotics are designed to align the foot and ankle into a more optimal position, which can enhance the overall function of the lower extremities. By correcting problems such as overpronation or supination, orthotics help stabilize the foot during movement, promoting better balance and alignment throughout the kinetic chain. This improvement in biomechanics can lead to increased power transfer while running or during other athletic activities, potentially improving performance and reducing the likelihood of injuries that can arise from improper foot mechanics.

The other options do not accurately reflect how orthotics affect performance. Making shoes heavier is counterintuitive to athletic performance, as additional weight can hinder speed and agility. Changing an athlete's height for visibility does not factor into performance enhancement and is not a function of orthotics. Ensuring shoes fit tighter can result in discomfort and restrict movement, which can negatively impact performance rather than enhance it. Thus, the primary benefit of orthotics lies in their ability to correct biomechanical issues for improved function and injury prevention.