A person walks about 900-950 miles per year. It is estimated that a person walks around the earth three times in a lifetime. A large amount of force is carried through the foot when walking and this force increases during sports.
Feet differ from one person to the other. There are various kinds of foot types which are mainly hereditary. Footwear, activities and various diseases can alter foot shape and function. When the shape and function of the foot change, pathologies begin to develop such as pain when walking and the formation of corns and callus.
Custom-made insoles have been made from Foot-Forward since 1969, using the available techniques at each given period of time. In 2001, the professional skills of the podiatrists were combined with technology by introducing pressure distribution platforms.
The orthotic devices given to patients are made according to the needs of each patient to improve the biomechanics of the lower limb. The type of footwear that will be used is discussed with the patient beforehand. The insoles are made after taking a detailed history of the problem and each patient’s needs.
There is a wide range of uses for custom-made orthotics. They can be used for flat feet, high arched feet as well as in leg length discrepancies. Insoles can also be made after accidents or trauma to help in the rehabilitation process. They have an extremely important role in diabetes as they help prevent ulceration in high-risk feet. High risk feet are identified by a simple clinical examination. In diabetes, the insoles help in healing wounds by offloading the wound area in conjunction with wound care and most importantly, they prevent re-ulceration. Insoles can also be made for people with arthropathies as they help accommodate bony deformities and offload painful joints.
When used in sports, they are able to improve foot function to the maximum and therefore provide the best outcome for the athletes’ performance.
Different types of materials are available according to the needs of each individual patient, ranging from low densities to high densities. Low density (soft) materials can be used for pain relief, in diabetes and arthropathies. Medium density materials may be used for general foot function correction. High density (hard) materials may be used in sports or where pressure absorption is needed.
With regard to footwear, patients can find wide-fitting shoes from the local market to accommodate their insoles. In cases where there is a need for medical shoes, we are able to supply the patient with the appropriate shoe as we collaborate with shoe manufacturers in the United Kingdom, Germany and Italy.