The advancement of plantar orthoses manufacturing technology, particularly 3D printing, has made it possible to relieve a variety of foot pathologies successfully. Today, we will talk about four disorders that lend themselves very well to the usage of 3D-printed orthoses.
3D-printed orthoses to treat hallux valgus
The “bunion” foot condition, hallux valgus, is defined by a deviation of the big toe’s base. This bump-shaped joint malformation can cause stiffness and pain in this region as well as on the top of the foot. Additionally, it can result in calluses, ingrown toenails, and bursitis.
Hallux valgus must be treated before the pain develops and becomes too incapacitating for daily activities. Wearing foot orthoses created via 3D printing is one of the most successful solutions. The high accuracy of this kind of insole does, in fact, assist the foot in modifying its support on the ground to reestablish a good position, correct for the big toe deformity, and simultaneously provide pain relief.
3D-printed plantar orthoses to treat plantar fasciitis
Repeated damage to the band of tissue linking the heel to the forefoot is what causes plantar fasciitis through rupture, micro-tearing or excessive stretching. Depending on the patient, it may present as a more or less intense heel pain or as a burning, pinching, or stinging sensation. These aches typically emerge after getting out of bed in the morning, although they can also show up while exercising or during palpation.
Several treatments can be suggested to alleviate the discomfort once the diagnosis has been made. Among them are the 3D printed foot orthoses, which, following a foot scan, will give the patient support customized to their foot and their specific pathology. The orthoses will adjust the foot’s alignment to ease the injured area and cushion the heel for improved protection.
3D-printed orthoses to treat heel spur
Another type of pain can be caused by the heel spur. To be more specific, it is an outgrowth of bone that forms within the heel bone. It is one of the side effects that untreated plantar fasciitis might have.
Depending on the situation, heel spur pain varies in intensity and is occasionally accompanied by stiffness in the heel or trouble walking. Since other plantar problems can also cause similar symptoms, an X-ray is required to make the diagnosis.
Orthoses made using 3D printing are a fantastic way to treat this pathology. These types of orthoses efficiently support the entire arch of the foot because they survey the plantar area point by point. Additionally, they even out the pressure areas so that the heel receives less pressure and can better absorb shocks.
3D-printed orthoses to treat metatarsalgia
Finally, we have metatarsalgia, a foot sole inflammation that is very painful under the forefoot and in the toes. The affected person may experience aching, numbness, burning that is moderate to severe, or even the sense that stones have slid under their forefoot. Metatarsalgia is more common in women than in men, and it can be brought on, among other things, by wearing high heels and shoes with narrow toes.
For this pathology, the 3D-printed orthoses work best at relieving pain because they let you go back on solid ground thanks to their entirely customized design. It will also absorb shocks under this region and balance out the weight exerted on the front of the foot.
Many foot pathologies can be relieved with 3D-printed orthoses
Our foot orthoses are entirely personalized and therefore tailored to the patient’s foot, everyday activities, and specific pathologies as a result of digitization and 3D printing technology. The condition in question, the discomfort, and the entire body will all benefit from this kind of device. Are you interested in 3D-printed orthoses? Feel free to get in touch with your local Talaria retailer right away.