Foot Orthotics have been used for the management of lower-limb and foot pathologies since the 19th century. Clinical studies have shown that Orthotic devices encourage the normal function of the foot by dissipating kinetic forces during the stance phase of gait, incorporating elevated contact surfaces to correct poor biomechanics of the lower-limb, redistributing loads to adjacent foot structures through accommodative moulding and reducing plantar pressures in focal areas which is particularly important in diabetic patients.

Foot Orthotic Types

The most commonly used types of foot Orthotics in clinical settings are: simple Insoles, custom-made and prefabricated or semi-bespoke Orthotics.

Simple Insoles are manufactured using a multi-layered approach, starting with a base, mid layer components and covering materials mainly using open and closed cell polyurethanes as well as leathers and viscoelastic polymers which provide local cushioning and minimal mechanical correction.

Custom-made foot Orthotics are devices manufactured from a foot impression either utilising traditional plaster of Paris casts or different scanning techniques. Devices are traditionally manufactured using more rigid materials such as Polypropylene or various densities of Ethylene Vinyl Acetate (EVA) which provide pressure relief as well as more mechanical correction.

Although in principle more accurate than off the shelf devices, their accuracy will depend greatly on several factors which are independent of the prescribing clinician - not to mention the manufacturing time and potential inaccuracies with the finished device as well as the cost implications associated with their production making this not the most practical or cost effective choice of Orthotic manufacture.

Prefabricated or Semi-bespoke Orthotics are non-custom devices designed to provide a neutral base offering a standard degree of support, although they are not significantly corrective on their own. In conjunction with Slimflex components they can offer a similar degree of correction as custom made devices.

Prefabricated Finshed Devices such as Interpod includes intrinsic posting based on biomechanical, laboratory and clinical experience for an immediate, non-invasive, research-supported treatment.

Orthotic Insoles provide moderate support and foot cradling to help prevent pronation and supination while providing comfort. Many of the inserts listed can be modified by clinicians providing additional functional control.

When Custom Devices are Required?