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The podiatrists at Fitzroy Foot and Ankle Clinic use 3D laser scanning to create custom-made orthotics. 3D laser scanning has a number of advantages, including:
more accurate impressions of the feet;
no need for messy plaster casting;
the orthotics are returned to patients faster as the laser scan of the foot will be uploaded to the orthotic laboratory's servers immediately;
reduced time as the laser scanner takes a few seconds once setup;
the scan of the foot is electronically stored for easy retrieval in the future;
allows more accurate placement of offloading padding
We have invested in this technology as we feel 3D laser scanning allows us to create better custom made orthotics in a faster time-frame, which ultimately provides a better service to our patients. We are able to provide this extra service without any extra costs being passed on to our patients.
Orthotics are a common treatment used for a variety of conditions. Broadly, there are two categories of orthotics provided by podiatrists, prefabricated and customised.
Prefabricated orthotics are mass produced and sized to fit a person's foot. There are a very wide variety of prefabricated orthotics that are manufactured, with some being better than others. For most people, prefabricated orthotics that are correctly fitted can be very effective to reduce pain and improve function (e.g. for short term conditions).
Customised orthotics are made by taking either a mould, an impression or a laser scan of a person's feet. This is then combined with a prescription by a podiatrist, that specifies what features the orthotic should have. Customised orthotics can be fabricated from a variety of materials, and have endless possibilities in terms of shape and function.
A podiatrist will be able to help you understand which type of orthotic will be best suited for you and the goals you want to achieve. One major consideration is cost, and there is a price difference between each option and the podiatrist can factor this in when discussing options with you.
