Understanding flat feet: An in-depth analysis of orthotic solutions
Ewa Bednarczyk, Szymon Sikora, Aneta Kossobudzka-Górska, Krzysztof Jankowski, Yunuhen Hernandez-Rodriguez
Abstract
To identify the advantages and disadvantages of treatment options for flat feet, which is common foot arch deformation affecting many people. We performed a literature review of ways of treating flat feet using orthoses available on the shelf and custom-made as an alternative for special and typical cases. We compared 7 types of orthoses and showed the evolution of custom-made orthoses. Off-the-shelf solutions are cheaper and available almost instantaneously in shops and online. They may be a good option for typical flat feet, but not for everybody because of their strict range of sizes and lack of personalization. On the other hand, custom-made orthoses are better fitted and can be used for typical and atypical flat feet cases. Custom-made orthosis demands time to make all necessary adjustments and manufacture orthosis. Off-the-shelf solutions can be a good choice for patients with no special needs in treatment. However, they would not be suitable for everyone in terms of size. Custom-made orthoses are often a better choice even though the waiting period. The time needed for execution will be constantly shortened in the future because of the development of technologies such as 3D printing and scanning and CAD processing.