orthotics are named by the
joints they encompass and motions controlled
types of orthotics
the foundation for most lower limb orthotics
the shoe
shoes transfer
body-weight to the ground and protect the foot from the terrain and the
weather
the ideal shoe distributes weight-bearing forces to provide
optimum comfort and function
of the foot
upper shoe
The anterior component of the upper is the vamp and the posterior part is the quarter
the shoe is to be used with an
AFO
keeps it in place
A high-quarter shoe augment
foot stability in the absence of an AFO
more difficult to don
the sole
absorbs shock
regardless of material, the outsole should
not contact the floor at the distal end
heel
when wearing high heels, the wearer compensates either by
retaining slight knee and hip flexion or by extending the knee and exaggerating lumbar lordosis. The high heel transmits more stress to the forefoot and knee.
Reinforcements located at strategic points preserve
the shape of the shoe
Toe boxing in the vamp protects the toes from
distal and vertical trauma; it should be
high enough to accommodate hammer toes or similar deformity
te shank piece
a longitudinal plate that reinforces the sole between the anterior
border of the heel and the widest part of the sole at the metatarsal heads
a pt with pes valgus should have a shoe with
a long, stiff medial
counter that provides reinforcement along the medial border of the foot to the head of
the first metatarsal, thus resisting the tendency of the foot to collapse medially
the last
the model over which the shoe is made
remains with the manufacturer
basically a foot model
foot orthotics
insert placed in the shoe
Internal modification affixed within the shoe, or an external modification attached to the
sole or heel
foot ortheses apply force to the
foot which may enhance function and reduce pain
FO benefits
internal modification
orthosis inside the shoe
- Inserts and internal modifications are identical. Both distribute force on the foot more
comfortably, pain reduction, and improve balance among older adults
external modifications
involves
material added to the exterior of the
shoe, such as a heel lift
The patient with leg length discrepancy
of more than 1/2 in. (1 cm) will walk
better with a shoe lift made
heel wedges
alters alignment of the rear-foot
A medial heel wedge, by applying laterally
directed force,
can aid in realigning
flexible pes valgus or can accommodate rigid pes varus by filling the void between the sole and the floor on the medial side
for valgus (pronating) and rigid varus