How Can You NOT Love the Internet? It's Like the Wild, Wild West of Information

I get Google Alerts on anything to do with orthotics & prosthetics. (I think I may have said that before...)

So, this is one that I got today.

From the Midland Free Press online.

Orthotics: When "Custom" Isn't Custom

The Midland Free Press is a Canadian newspaper, but as far as I know, they've got Orthotists in Canada, eh?
By reading the article - submitted by the author, not a journalist,  a pedorthist - you would think that only pedorthists should be fabricating and fitting foot orthoses.  Wouldn't you?

Shoot first. 

"...The most common three-dimensional casting techniques include: plaster slipper casting, foam box casting, as well as wax casting

There are other techniques, however, they are not widely utilized. 

One must also keep in mind that not just any one can take an accurate three-dimensional impression/cast of the foot. 

Extensive training in all of the above mentioned areas is required in order to produce a proper custom made device. 

Pedorthists are the only professionals trained specifically in the assessment, design, manufacture, fit and if necessary modification of custom-made orthotics.

So, the next time a practitioner asks you to walk over a pressure mat, of any other sort of gimmick, ask yourself, 'is this capturing a three-dimensional impression of my foot?'

If the answer is "no," then you are not receiving a truly custom-made device." 

For more information, contact Precision Orthotics at 527-4441. 

Article submitted by Krystal Dawe, B.A. Kin, C. Ped. (C), Pedorthist.