Orthoses to fit shoes

Area of Science:

• Biomechanics
• Podiatry
• Orthotics Engineering

Background:

• Traditional foot orthoses are often custom-molded to the patient's foot shape.
• This approach may not fully optimize the fit within the footwear.
• Potential for enhanced stability and comfort exists through alternative fitting strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and describe a method for fabricating foot orthoses.
• To improve the fit, stability, and comfort of custom shoe orthoses.
• To fashion the external surface of the orthosis to the internal contours of the shoe.

Main Methods:

• A novel method for fabricating foot orthoses is detailed.
• The external shape of the orthosis foot-piece is adapted to the internal shape of the shoe.
• This contrasts with traditional methods of molding to the foot's external shape.

Main Results:

• The described method facilitates the creation of orthoses with an external shape precisely matching the shoe's interior.
• This technique offers a new approach to custom orthotic fabrication.
• Potential for improved patient outcomes in terms of stability and comfort.

Conclusions:

• Fashioning orthoses to the inside shape of footwear, rather than solely the foot, offers a promising approach.
• This method can lead to enhanced stability and comfort for individuals using custom shoe orthoses.
• Further research may validate the clinical benefits of this fabrication technique.