Waikato Podiatry Clinic Runners and Sports People
Home > Orthotics

Orthotics

The Leaning Tower of Pisa is unstable due to the uneven "foundation" layers of sand and clay beneath it. This is a great example of the instability caused by an unstable foundation.

Leaning Tower of Pisa
Photo courtesy of Gary Feuerstein

Technically speaking an orthotic device can be defined as:

"An appliance used to support, align, prevent or correct deformities or to improve function of movable parts of the body."
"Ortho" means "straight, normal or correct"

When podiatrists refer to an orthotic they actually mean a "Foot-orthoses".

There are literally 100's of different kinds and types available.

A foot print is much like a fingerprint in that it has unique properties to each individual. This should be reflected in the orthotic design and prescription.

I am a strong believer that not everyone always needs an orthotic!!

Correct shoe selection is very important.

A full history, biomechanical assessment and gait analysis should be carried out prior to orthotic fitting.

I have seen on several occasions that "over the counter" unmodified orthotics have been purchased from a shop, fitted incorrectly and actually contribute to the person's problems - beware of self diagnosis and treatment.

The benefits of customised, properly fitted orthotics are huge!

Because the forces going through the feet are very high (2-5 times bodyweight) small differences make big changes to the effectiveness of the orthotic.

It is very important that a thorough assessment, gait analysis and biomechanical examination is completed prior to orthotics being fitted, (if required).

Andrew recognised early in his career that there was an enormous potential to improve and develop the production of customised orthotics and has acted on this knowledge.

Foot Function Orthotics

The innovative brand, Foot Function, aims to integrate modern theories and technologies into everyday foot care.

Andrew has been instrumental in establishing the new brand - Foot Function Orthotics.

The orthotics have been designed to effectively guide the foot, provide functional support and improve the overall function of the foot during the gait cycle.

Foot Function orthotics are only available from podiatrists and require specialised modification and fitting following a thorough assessment.

blue - lower density orange black - maximal support
Blue:
Lower density option for sensitive feet and additional cushioning.
Orange:
Perfect blend of support and cushion.
Black:
When maximal support is required. Durable for even the heaviest patients.

Biomechanical Assessment:

This looks at things like foot and lower limb posture. It invovles assessing how the joints of the feet and legs work in relation to each other, as well as a muscle strength testing.

Hypomobility = stiff and inflexible
Hypermobility = excessively flexible

Everyone fits somewhere within the spectrum. Extremes of either tend to have different kinds of problems.


 

Phone 07 838 0003
Fax 07 838 0002
Email andrew@waikatopodiatry.co.nz
10 Pembroke Street, Hamilton, New Zealand
Rototuna Shopping Centre, Rototuna, Hamilton

Home | Sports Podiatry | Orthotics | High Risk Feet | General Podiatry | Nail Surgery | Arthritis | Testimonials | News | FAQ's

© Waikato Podiatry 2006

Web Site Development by Webagent