3D printed orthotics help relieve and even cure many foot problems. Their effectiveness varies depending on the specific issues being treated. In this article, we will explore which conditions these supports are most effective for.
How Do 3D Printed Orthotics Work?
A 3D printed orthotic is created through a 3D foot scan, using a three-dimensional sensor. The foot is scanned in its entirety to generate a 3D image, which is then sent to a laboratory, where it is converted into an orthotic and printed in 3D.
This type of support is suitable for all patients, including children, adults, the elderly, and athletes, who suffer from foot problems. It can treat a wide range of foot conditions (deformities, diabetes, poor posture, biomechanical issues, etc.). Indeed, 3D printed orthotics have the advantage of being fully molded to the patient’s foot. They account for every individual feature with millimeter precision, addressing the problem with accuracy.
Conditions That 3D Printed Orthotics Relieve Most Effectively
Custom-made orthotics work on foot-related issues, but also on the lower limbs and back, which are directly impacted. While they can be used to treat many ailments, these orthotics are particularly recommended for certain conditions.
Flat Feet
Flat feet refer to a collapse of the arch with very little, if any, arch curvature. This condition causes the foot to twist inward and rotate outward during walking, creating a muscular imbalance that affects the lower limbs. In addition to the flat appearance of the foot, it is mainly characterized by pain in the arch, ankle joint, and lower back.
Here, wearing 3D printed orthotics is highly recommended, as they provide tailored support to the foot’s arch, effectively relieving pain, and restoring balance to both the foot and the ankle.
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue connecting the heel to the front of the foot, causing sharp or dull pain in the arch and heel when taking the first steps in the morning or after sitting for extended periods.
For this condition, 3D orthotics address multiple aspects. Their perfect fit allows them to better support the heel and arch, stabilize the plantar fascia to prevent further stretching, distribute pressure evenly across the foot, and absorb shocks, thus relieving stress on the heel.
The Benefits of 3D Printing for Designing Orthotics
Orthotics produced using 3D technology offer exceptional medical precision, allowing them to better adapt to the specific features of each patient’s foot. Every bump and contour is considered for an optimal fit, providing customized relief and correction, along with greater comfort.
For podiatrists and orthotists, 3D orthotics offer clear advantages. The footprint-taking process is simpler and faster, with a drastically reduced risk of error and fully computerized prescription generation.
Choose the Precision of 3D Printed Orthotics for Your Patients
While traditional orthotics are still capable of treating various foot conditions, they cannot match the precision and high quality of 3D printed supports. For both patients and healthcare professionals, this technology is now the most advantageous and effective, especially for treating the conditions mentioned above.
Interested in offering custom 3D orthotics? Contact Skeltec to learn more about our products.