The development of technologies in the creation of orthotics, particularly 3D printing, now allows for the effective treatment of many foot ailments. Today, we will discuss 4 pathologies that respond particularly well to the use of 3D printed orthotics.
3D Printed Orthotics for Treating Hallux Valgus
Hallux valgus, also known as a “bunion,” is characterized by a deviation at the base of the big toe. This joint deformity takes the form of a bump and can cause stiffness and pain in the area or on the top of the foot. It may also lead to bursitis, calluses, or even ingrown nails.
It is important to treat hallux valgus before the pain worsens and it becomes too debilitating in daily life. Among the solutions available, wearing 3D printed orthotics is highly effective. The extreme precision of this type of orthotic helps the foot adjust its ground contact, realign properly, compensate for the deformity of the big toe, and alleviate pain at the same time.
3D Printed Orthotics for Treating Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is caused by repeated trauma to the band of tissue connecting the heel to the front of the foot (tearing, micro-tears, or stretching). Depending on the patient, it may present as sharp heel pain or a sensation of heat, pinching, or stinging. This pain is mostly felt in the morning upon waking but can also occur during sports activities or when pressed.
Once diagnosed, several treatments can be proposed to ease the pain. Among them, 3D printed orthotics offer a solution tailored to the foot and the specific pathology the patient suffers from after a scan. The orthotic helps correct the foot’s posture to relieve the affected area and absorbs shocks in the heel, providing better protection.
3D Printed Orthotics and Treatment of Lenoir’s Spur
Lenoir’s spur, or “heel spur,” is another type of heel pain. Specifically, it’s a bony growth that develops inside the heel bone. It is one of the complications that can arise from untreated plantar fasciitis.
Lenoir’s spur can be more or less painful depending on the case and may be accompanied by stiffness in the heel or difficulty walking. Since these symptoms also occur with other foot disorders, an X-ray is required to confirm the diagnosis.
3D printed orthotics are highly effective in relieving this condition. By scanning the plantar surface point by point, this type of orthotic offers great support to the arch of the foot. It also balances pressure points so that the heel is less stressed, and the shocks on it are better absorbed.
A 3D Printed Orthotic for Treating Metatarsalgia
Finally, metatarsalgia is an inflammation of the bottom of the foot that causes significant pain in the forefoot and toes. The affected person may feel sharp, tingling, or burning sensations of varying intensity, or even the sensation that stones have slipped under the forefoot. More common in women than men, metatarsalgia can be caused by wearing narrow-toed shoes with high heels, among other factors.
For this condition as well, the 3D printed orthotic works optimally to reduce pain by restoring a proper ground contact. Additionally, it compensates for the pressure placed on the forefoot and absorbs shocks in this area.
3D Printed Orthotics to Relieve Foot Pain
Thanks to 3D scanning and printing technology, custom orthotics are tailored to the patient’s foot, daily activities, and the pathologies they suffer from. These orthotics target the specific issue, alleviate pain, and improve overall body posture. Interested in 3D printed orthotics? Don’t hesitate to contact your Skeltec retailer now for more information.