There is no age limit for using personalized foot orthoses, despite the fact that this question is frequently asked. In fact, a child with plantar disorders will benefit from wearing this kind of support to keep the issue from getting worse during growth or in the future. 3D foot orthoses offer many benefits in terms of accuracy, comfort, and effectiveness for treating younger children.
What are 3D-printed foot orthoses?
The use of 3D printing technology comes about as a result of collecting a great deal of precise data. Each foot is first scanned using a specialized iPad with a 3D sensor, which is a quick and painless process for patients. The podiatrist can then make the required adjustments directly on the image in accordance with the pathology, and send the file straight to the lab responsible for the manufacture.
In comparison to conventional supports, 3D foot orthoses have the advantage of millimetre-accurate adjustment on top of their simple and quick measurement. Additionally, it can be tailored to all patient types and plantar pathologies due to its efficacy and complete personalization.
3D-printed foot orthoses for people of all ages
3D foot orthoses are highly adaptable and provide daily comfort, making them suitable for patients of all ages, even the youngest children. By addressing the issue early on, you can make the necessary corrections and prevent more serious issues that could arise during adolescence or even in adulthood.
Custom-made 3D-printed foot orthoses are popularly recommended for treating children, especially the very young, who suffer from various pathologies affecting the feet or posture because they are extremely precise and perfectly adjusted. Additionally, the impression is quick and painless, so the patient and their parents will be spared from stress and anxiety.
Using 3D printing to create orthoses for children’s feet
Some kids experience pain or have issues with their gait or foot shape. A collapsed arch, unusual outward foot orientation soon after taking the first steps, difficulty moving, legs that appear to be bent, etc., are just a few of the symptoms you may encounter.
Flat feet, « duck feet, » and bowed knees are the three plantar pathologies that are most frequently observed in children. These can be relieved and even corrected effectively by prescribing 3D foot orthoses that will accompany the child during growth.
Benefits of prescribing 3D-printed foot orthoses
3D-printed foot orthoses offer significant advantages for podiatrists in addition to being a comprehensive, less invasive and much more comfortable method for younger patients. The use of the 3D sensor allows for the most accurate imaging of the entire foot, in both its surface and its volume, and makes it simple to make the required corrections.
Another benefit of 3D printing is design speed: the 3D mould is sent right away to the lab, and processing takes 2 to 5 days. A significant decrease in the possibility of human error is guaranteed by the 100% computerized process, in addition to improved communication between the manufacturing laboratory and the podiatrist.
3D foot orthoses provide a customized treatment for children’s feet
The sooner a problem is treated, the greater the chances of permanently correcting it. This makes 3D foot orthoses the best option for young patients with foot and posture issues. These fully personalized supports will aid in the precise and effective treatment of the issue while making measurement and design for podiatrists simpler and faster.
Are you interested in 3D-printed foot orthoses for children? Contact your Talaria retailer for more information on our products.