We are aware that a 3D printed insole and pressure plate combination is now available to create an insole. Please do not confuse an insole with a biomechanically-corrected custom made foot orthosis.
A custom made foot orthotic needs a full replica of the foot; e.g. a plaster cast or a non-weight bearing foam impression. For the last few years we’ve utilized scanners to replicate a three-dimensional view of the foot. However, not all scanners are created equal. Some “scanners” are merely pressure plates that do not give a contour of the foot. Pressure plates only note pressure points. They are good for relieving pressure only – as there is no additional information, such as arch height, it will only produce an insole without corrections. Why use 3D printing with a one-dimensional scan?
Functional Foot Orthosis (as it relates to custom made foot orthosis) – An orthotic device that is contoured to the plantar, medial, lateral & posterior aspect of a replication of the foot to control or reduce abnormal motion or abnormal position of the foot, & to control the abnormal motion or abnormal position of the lower extremity that is affected by the position and/or motion of the foot. When applicable, modifications such as wedging or posting are utilized to control foot motion or position.
A lab must have a three-dimensional view of the foot. Our E-Z-SCAN™ system gives us a three-dimensional view of the foot.
A variety of corrections are still available that we offer to address specific conditions. A few of these conditions may be: Rigid plantarflexed first ray-Turf Toe, Fractured or broken ray, Metatarsalgia, Plantar fasciitis, Morton’s Toe, Heel bruise or heel spur, Achilles tendonitis, Hyper-pronation, Hyper-supination, Knee internally or externally rotated, and Sesamoiditis.
To biomechanically correct a foot you must have a three-dimensional view of the foot and not just a foot print. No “bells & whistles” – just biomechanical results. When 3D printing is ready, we will be there.
Jack Kaeufer, President (1940 – 2018)
Brenda Baublitz, Orthotic Technician
Cody Gankiewicz, C.Ped
Lucy Mohr, C.Ped
Steve Kaeufer, C.Ped
Tags: 3D Scans, Bells & Whistles, Custom Orthotics, E-Z-Scan