Orthotics Technician

Orthotics –what it is and the types available

Orthotics is a wing in medicine which deals with the manufacture and usage of orthoses. Orthoses are devices which support revise and moderate the function of the feet. They are foot inserts which shape around the foot, for example braces. They correct foot discomfort and any imbalances present.

Most of the orthoses are custom made and designed to fit the customer depending on the problem they have. These custom made are manufactured by using the cast of the foot. A cast is like a shadow which shows the structure of the foot including any misplacement. The cast is produced by duplicating the foot. Using it, technicians then make the orthotic which is designed to correct the malfunction. Some inserts can be bought in pharmacies but it is best to have one custom made by a podiatrist.

Types of orthotic devices

When considering how they are structured, there are 4 types which are rigid, semi rigid, soft and those for children.

Rigid

They are made from a hard material such as plastic and graphite fiber which is molded into the foot's shape from the toes to the heels. Their primary function is for people who walk or stand for long periods of time. They are lightweight, thin and have a cover for the metatarsal heads and have rear foot posts. They fit into men's dress shoes and athletic shoes. They do not fit into women's dress shoes.

Soft

These are made from a soft material. They are used as shock absorbers and for reinstating balance. They are usually used by those with foot malfunction and diabetes. They need to be replaced often their advantage is that they can be adjusted easily when need arises.

Semi rigid

They are primarily meant for athletics. For every sport that people participate in, an orthoses device is made. It is manufactured using a soft material. Hard plastic is placed on the necessary places which fit the sport the device will be used for. They permit tendons to function without pain which is present when wearing normal shoes.

Children

These are made for kids who have foot deformations. New sets are made for them as they grow. The malfunction determines how long the orthotics are worn. Some have to wear them for their whole lives

Specialists group orthotics into 2 categories which are functional and accommodative orthotics

Functional

These are made to support feet which are abnormal. They prevent pes planus and absorb shocks when running or walking. They support the whole foot from the subtalar joints, midfoot joints, the arches of the foot to the tendons. In short, they prevent overuse damages and correct some deformities.

Accommodative

This group has devices that offer relief to minor pains and foot injuries. They are usually used to correct problems in children. The devices include night bars and splints. They offer support and promote adjustments for minor abnormalities.

Conclusion

Orthotics is used to offer relief to the foot and should be used to avoid pain in the tendons and arches from collapsing. In general, they protect the foot from injuries.

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