Orthopaedic shoes prescribed by podiatrists treat plantar deformities and mechanical foot and leg abnormalities. These conditions can cause musculoskeletal compensation and chronic pain if untreated. This article explains when orthopaedic shoes are used and how they are made.
The various types of orthopaedic shoes
Orthopaedic shoes have evolved to suit many foot pathologies. The podiatrist may recommend:
- Orthopaedic street shoes for office and social use
- Orthopaedic shoes for children to correct deformities during growth
- Orthopaedic work shoes for active workers needing comfort
- Orthopaedic custom shoes for patients with severe plantar problems
Prefabricated orthopaedic shoes are less expensive and suitable for mild conditions.
What can we treat with orthopaedic shoes?
Orthopaedic shoes actively and passively treat conditions similarly to foot orthoses. They correct pronation and limit effects of plantar deformities without restricting movement.
Treated pathologies include flat or cavus foot, plantar fasciitis, heel spur, asymmetrical legs, hammertoes, bunions (hallux valgus), clubfoot, deformities from diabetic foot or arthrosis, lower back pain, joint pain in ankles, knees or hips, and poor posture. Orthopaedic shoes can complement other podiatric treatments when multiple issues exist.
The benefits of choosing orthopaedic shoes
Orthopaedic shoes improve comfort and support those with plantar problems. Benefits include:
- Better foot protection than regular shoes
- Increased stability reducing sprained ankle risk
- Wide range of styles limiting aesthetic compromises
- Greater durability by fitting foot shape perfectly
- Reduced muscle and joint fatigue from plantar imbalance
- Facilitated recovery after intense activities
Consulting a podiatrist is recommended before buying, as they evaluate suitability using biomechanical exams and 2D/3D scanning, and may suggest complementary solutions like orthotics or therapeutic taping.
The manufacturing process of custom orthopaedic footwear
Custom orthopaedic shoes, though more expensive, relieve complex pain and deformities. They are prescribed by podiatrists, physicians, or orthopedists, and fabricated by orthotists.
The process includes:
- Planning shoe dimensions, comfort, morphology, and aesthetics
- Molding feet impressions with plaster strips
- Isolating casts with latex and silicone
- Creating rough resin castings
- Casting the shoe last
- Forming and rigidifying the preliminary shoe model
- Making corrections as needed
- Sanding the shoe last to fit forefoot
- Vacuum pressing and thermoforming shoe materials
- Stapling, filling, and forming foam and rigid inner shoes
- Designing final shoe pattern
- Selecting and cutting materials
- Assembling shoe and sole
Multiple fittings occur during production. Patients typically test their custom shoes after a few months.
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For more information about orthopaedic shoes, visit our regularly updated articles. However, nothing replaces a consultation at a clinic. Take care of your feet—they are precious!