Best Method for Making Orthotics

Direct Orthotics

Best Method

The best method is to use advanced 3D Kinematic Imaging (3DO) 

to capture the foot using a 3D imager that will analyze both STATIC (non-movement) and DYNAMIC (movement) data.   The reason is quite simple.   The foot and limb work differently in non movement (static) states then it does in movement (dynamic) states.    In Dynamic States, Mass displacement, balance, linear and sheer pressures, Gait analysis, mass displacement contributes significantly to disease states and should be analyzed.  This can only be done using high technology 3D imaging sensors which provides objective data about a patients biomechanical problems.   

More Data = Better Results = Better Care

1. Mass Displacement Analysis
2. Body Balance
3. Linear Pressure Analysis
4. Sheer Pressure Analysis 
5. Motion Analysis
6. Gait Analysis
7. 3D Plantar Geometry 
8. Neutral Joint Positioning computed by Digital Imager Live Software 

Older Methods 

Plaster Neutral Joint Casting

For 90 years Orthotics have been made by casting patients using plaster sheets where rearfoot and midfoot joints are aligned by a foot specialist physician.   The casts are applied and then allowed to dry and then are removed.  Many times a range of or motion exam and or x rays are used to determine where the physician believes the joints are in proper alignment and then tried to capture that correction from the positive cast.   

Problems: 

1. Improper cast impression technique (common errors)
2. Cast distortion by removal, shipping or inadequate drying
3. Damage to cast at Laboratory through pouring liquid plaster for positive mold 
4. Improper balancing of rearfoot and forefoot 
5. Improper thermo-pressing (suctioning)

What are Orthotics?

Direct Orthotics

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Orthotics 

How many types of orthotics are there?

There are three basic types of orthotics.   Soft, Semi Flex and Rigid.   Some orthotics are designed to improve shock loading of the foot where others are designed to control excess pronation (hypermobility).        

Why are orthotics bad for you?

If your podiatrist prescribes orthotics, it's important to wear them as recommended. If you neglect to wear them as prescribed, you could worsen any injuries to your muscles or tendons. You could also experience related symptoms, such as back, leg, ankle, or elbow pain.

What is an example of an orthotic?

Generally, an orthotic is named for the section of the body it supports. For example, a brace that supports the knee joint is called a knee orthosis (KO). Those designed to support or align and the ankle and foot are called ankle foot orthoses (AFOs).

Do orthotics help hip pain?

Orthotics help manage your hip pain sometimes, but not always. They provide a non-surgical treatment to see how your hip pain responds. Orthotics may be one part of your treatment. In addition, your medical professional may ice, heat or offer exercises and other adjustments as part of your pain-management plan.

How do you know if you need orthotics?

You Have No Arch or a High Arch in Your Foot – If you have very high or low arches, regular shoes may not provide your feet the support they need. Orthotics can help provide the support that your regular shoes don't. You Have Severe Pain in Your Foot or Heel – While this may sound obvious, many people avoid foot pain.

How are orthotics made?

Older methods for orthotic manufacturing involves using foam boxes or plaster casting which is dependent on proper technique and as such there is a lot variability because of the impression art form.   New Technology has advanced the accuracy or orthotics effectiveness.   New 3D analytical imagers (3DO Imaging) now provide precise data on balance, pressure, gait, mass displacement, symmetry, sheer analysis.   Technicians use this data to fabricate to make better orthotics that affect more joints of the body and provide more relief.