Custom orthotics are devices that are specifically designed to fit the contours of a person’s feet. They are often used to correct problems with a person’s foot structures, such as a high arch or a flat foot, which are usually the underlying cause of foot pain and injuries. Custom orthotics can relieve foot and ankle pain, as well as pain in the knees, lower back, neck, and shoulders.

3D foot scanning is the latest technology in the development of custom orthotics. While it’s true that podiatrists can still make orthotics out of traditional methods, there are many benefits of 3D foot scanning that would make it the preferred choice of custom orthotic creation for patients.

Let’s talk about 3D foot scanning and how it can improve quality care.

You may be wondering how 3D foot scanning actually works. A 3D digital scanner is used to scan a person’s foot with exceptional accuracy in as little as four seconds. It allows for the scanning of a patient’s foot in a neutral, non-weight bearing position, for the creation of custom hand-crafted orthotics. The scanning takes place in the podiatrist’s office and the 3D digital scans are sent to the laboratory for fabrication.

Knowing the benefits of 3D foot scanning will make you want to prefer only this method for custom orthotic creation:

• Great accuracy – 3D foot scans have within 0.4mm of accuracy, which is greater than the accuracy of less-advanced methods of scanning and the traditional plaster.
• More comfortable – The 3D scanner allows for the patient’s foot to be scanned while the patient is on a table with their foot in a neutral position.
• Quick scanning – The 3D foot scanner could be an iPad with a sensor scanner attached to it, and the scanning can take just a few minutes to complete.
• Highly efficient – Since the digital scans can be sent to the orthotic laboratory online, it is extremely fast and efficient, and allows the podiatrist to spend more time with the patient. The creation of the custom orthotic starts as soon as the lab receives the scans.
• Less environmental waste – If you care about wastage, then 3D scanning is purely digital and creates less material waste.
• High quality and extremely functional orthotics – The custom orthotic created from 3D scanning is highly comfortable and fits perfectly, addressing the unique foot issues of the patient.

At Cincinnati Foot & Ankle, our board-certified podiatrists have partnered with Allied OSI Labs for their superior 3D foot scanning technology for custom orthotics. We are excited to offer our patients the latest in foot scanning, which offers top-notch custom orthotics that can effectively treat your foot issues and restore function to your feet.

If you are not satisfied with the performance of your orthotics, schedule an appointment with one of our podiatrists for an evaluation. Call our location nearest you or use our online request form. It’s about time you got custom-made orthotics and let them exceed your expectations!