An orthotic is a type of orthopedic orthotic designed to relieve foot pain, prevent, and treat deformities resulting from biomechanical imbalances or pathologies. Although it has existed for several centuries, this device has evolved over the years and has made a significant leap forward since the advent of 3D-printed orthotics. Here is a brief overview of the history of these technical orthotics.
From Ancient Times to the 20th Century: The History of Orthotics
Orthotics have been around for a long time. In fact, their history dates back nearly 2,000 years before Christ. The first devices of this type appear to have been designed to relieve back pain. Various materials were used at the time, including steel and leather. The first orthotics were simple layers of wool placed inside sandals to relieve tired feet.
During the Middle Ages, the first splints and orthoses for the hand appeared.
By the 19th century, plaster in the form of strips began to be used in orthopedic treatments to relieve and correct various pathologies and back deformities.
In the 20th century, technology evolved rapidly. New materials, such as carbon fiber, entered the market and allowed for the production of lighter and more comfortable orthotics for the time.
The first real orthotic was created by an orthopedic specialist in 1905: the Whitman Brace. This device was a fixed metal frame placed around the heel and the arch of the foot. Despite its discomfort, it was very successful and marked a true revolution, giving birth to a new era for such devices.
The Arrival of Custom Orthotics
In the 1970s, running and sports shoes became more popular. This boom highlighted the need for performance, comfort, and the limits of the human body for people with certain conditions. Orthotics came to the forefront and proved to be an excellent solution. They were no longer hidden or used in rare cases but began to be widely used. Far removed from the archaic models of the past, they adapted much better to patients’ morphologies and were recommended for treating various disorders.
The materials of orthotics evolved, as did the design methods, with a clear focus on custom-made solutions. The goal was no longer to create generic orthopedic orthotics but to design robust and comfortable devices tailored to the individual’s foot. These devices are capable of relieving, and even treating, certain conditions like plantar fasciitis.
The Digital Revolution in Orthotics
The digital revolution has disrupted many fields, and podiatry is no exception. The orthotic has reached a new level, with custom solutions becoming more precise than ever. The use of 3D printing allows for the creation of high-quality, fully personalized models, with simplified production, lower costs, and a significantly shorter production time.
The process works as follows: a digital footprint is taken, displayed on specialized software, the image is converted into an orthotic, and 3D printing is carried out by a laboratory. This cutting-edge technology, which we use at Skeltec, offers the best in terms of comfort, precision, durability, and design. These are significant advantages for both patients and orthotists and podiatrists.
3D Printing: The Future of Orthotics
From past to present, orthotics have evolved considerably. From simple wool layers to leather or metal supports, they have recently reached a new level with the advent of 3D-printed models. This technology holds a very promising future for orthotics, which continue to improve. More than just supports, they now act as a second skin and offer numerous benefits, making them indispensable for treating many foot injuries and conditions.
Are you ready to switch to 3D-printed orthotics? Trust the expertise of Skeltec, specialists in the production of this type of model, and contact our teams today.