Custom Foot Orthoses (Orthotics) are “an internal foot appliance which is manufactured from a three dimensional image of the foot, and made from raw materials. A custom foot orthosis can accommodate bony deformities, and/or modify the movement pattern of the foot and lower limb.” (Pedorthic Association of Canada, Pedorthic Temonology, 2003)
Some classify custom orthotics into 2 main types:
- Accommodative Foot Orthosis – are used when the pedorthist has determined the goal of the device is to redistribute forces more evenly throughout the plantar aspect of the foot. Softer materials are often used to construct the topcover and shell, which absorb shock. These orthotics are considered to have a lower level of control and therefore used when changing the movement pattern of the foot and lower limb are not the main objective.
- Functional Foot Orthoses – are used when a pedorthist has determined the goal of the medical device is to modify the movement pattern of the foot and the lower limb. Semi-rigid plastics are often used to construct the shell component of the device. Softer material is used on the topcover to ensure the device is comfortable. These orthotics are considered to have a higher level of control.
Our Pedorthist may include characteristics from both types of Orthotics…
