Thanks to its revolutionary technology and unparalleled fit, 3D orthotics are recommended in the treatment of many foot disorders. Today, we are focusing specifically on osteoarthritis of the foot. It is a painful and disruptive condition that can be alleviated and eased by prescribing this type of orthotic to patients who suffer from it.
Are 3D Orthotics a Solution for Osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis of the foot is a condition characterized by the progressive and irreversible degradation of the cartilage in one or more foot joints, as well as the ankle. It can manifest in various forms: pain, stiffness, swelling, and instability. These symptoms are most noticeable when at rest, upon waking in the morning, or after a period of inactivity, but especially when the body is in motion, making movement difficult.
Among the various methods used to treat osteoarthritis of the foot, wearing 3D orthotics is particularly effective. This type of support stands out from traditional orthotics due to its technological advancement. In fact, its design relies on an extremely precise footprint taken by scanning the foot with a 3D sensor-equipped iPad. This method offers an unmatched degree of customization, allowing for fully personalized orthotics. They will thus meet the specific needs of each patient.
In the case of people suffering from osteoarthritis of the foot, 3D orthotics will not cure this condition since it is irreversible. However, they will significantly improve their daily life by relieving pain, alleviating symptoms, and making walking easier.
How Do 3D Orthotics Relieve Osteoarthritis Pain?
The pain caused by osteoarthritis of the foot can occur in several areas, whether it’s the arch of the foot or the joints, creating difficulty in moving normally. This is where the 3D orthotic comes in, playing a crucial role in the patient’s treatment plan. Indeed, the design of this custom device makes it a fully tailored support to the foot, both in shape and in the pathology it is suffering from.
The 3D orthotic will allow for very precise targeting of sensitive points and provide the necessary support to affected joints. Increased support for the arch, better distribution of pressure on the foot, superior comfort… 3D printing orthotics not only acts on the pain, but it also improves movement during walking, while reducing the risk of falls, which are often common among people suffering from osteoarthritis.
Other Issues Treated by 3D Orthotics
Osteoarthritis of the foot is far from the only condition that can be alleviated by wearing 3D orthotics. Indeed, they can reduce or even eliminate pain and correct numerous other issues. These include heel spurs, flat feet, bunions, plantar fasciitis, bursitis, tendinitis, and hammertoes. 3D printed orthotics are also effective in cases of posture problems due to plantar disorders.
Because they are fully custom and versatile, 3D orthotics are suitable for athletes, the elderly, children, diabetics, and anyone suffering from foot pain, deformities, posture issues, or gait problems.
Finally, they can be prescribed preventively to avoid the development of certain foot conditions. This is especially true for young patients who show early signs of foot deformities. Wearing 3D orthotics during growth, rather than after, will help avoid many issues in adulthood.
3D Orthotics: An Essential Device to Relieve Your Patients with Foot Osteoarthritis
While they cannot cure osteoarthritis of the foot, 3D orthotics are essential in the treatment of this condition. Their millimeter-perfect fit, fully customized, addresses both the pain in the joints and the daily life of patients, enabling them to move with fewer constraints.
Would you like to join the Skeltec network and offer 3D orthotics to your patients? Contact us without delay.