Thanks to their revolutionary technology and unparalleled fit, 3D orthoses are now being used in the treatment of many foot disorders. In this article, we will focus specifically on osteoarthritis of the foot. This is a painful and bothersome condition that can be alleviated through the use of this type of orthosis for affected patients.
Are 3D foot orthoses a good treatment for osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis of the foot is a pathology characterized by progressive and irreversible degradation of the cartilage of one or more joints of the foot and ankle. It can manifest itself in various forms: pain, stiffness, swelling and instability. You may experience these symptoms when standing still, getting up in the morning or after a period of inactivity, but especially when the body is in motion, which will make it difficult to get around.
Wearing 3D orthoses has proven to be a particularly effective method of relieving osteoarthritis of the foot. The technological advancements of this type of support distinguish it from traditional insoles. Its design is based on an exceptionally precise impression obtained by scanning the foot with an iPad equipped with a 3D sensor. This method offers an unparalleled degree of precision in the fitting of foot orthoses, which are completely customized. As a result, they will meet the individual needs of each patient.
For people with osteoarthritis of the foot, the 3D orthoses will not cure this condition since it is irreversible. However, they will significantly improve people’s daily lives by relieving pain, reducing symptoms and making it easier to walk.
How do 3D orthoses relieve the pain of osteoarthritis?
Foot osteoarthritis pain can manifest itself in several areas, whether in the plantar arch or the joints, making it difficult to move normally. This is where the 3D orthoses come into play, providing crucial relief to the patient. This custom-made support is designed to be entirely adapted to the shape of the foot and to the pathology it suffers from.
The 3D orthoses will therefore allow for the precise targeting of sensitive points and will provide the necessary reinforcement to the affected joints. They not only reduce pain but also improve walking movements and reduce the risk of falls, which are often common among osteoarthritis patients. 3D-printed orthoses offer greater support for the plantar arch, better pressure distribution on the foot, and increased comfort.
Other ailments treated with 3D foot orthoses
Osteoarthritis of the foot is far from being the only pathology that can be relieved by wearing 3D orthoses. In fact, these orthoses can reduce or even eliminate pain and correct a number of other ailments. These include heel spurs, flat feet, hallux valgus, plantar fasciitis, bursitis, tendonitis and hammertoes. 3D-printed orthoses are also effective for posture problems caused by plantar disorders.
3D orthoses are entirely custom-made and versatile, making them suitable for athletes, the elderly, children, diabetics and anyone suffering from plantar pain, deformities, bad posture or gait problems.
Lastly, they can also be prescribed as a preventive measure to avoid the development of certain plantar pathologies. For example, this is the case for young patients who have early deformities of the foot. 3D orthoses can help them avoid many problems in adulthood by being worn during the growth phase.
3D orthoses are an essential tool for relieving your patients with osteoarthritis of the foot
Even though it does not cure osteoarthritis of the foot, 3D orthoses are a must for the alleviation of this condition. Thanks to its millimetre-accurate fit, the orthosis is completely customizable, which reduces the pain felt in the joints and improves the patient’s daily life, allowing them to move around with fewer restrictions.
Would you like to become part of the Talaria community and provide your patients with 3D orthoses? Reach out to us right away.