Miscellaneous Info

Selecting Orthotic Shell Thickness

When selecting the thickness of the material, you should consider: 1) Body weight, 2) Foot shape, 3) Patient type.

Body Weight:
Orthotic ordering usually follows “the weight to thickness ratio” where the heavier a person is, the more rigid we need the orthotic to be to resist deformation, and the lighter they are, the thinner the material to allow for some natural flex.

HOWEVER...

Foot Shape:
It is also important to remember that a person who has a high arch will generally require an extra cushioning or “shock absorbing” orthotic. Conversely, a person with a flatter arch will need a slightly more rigid orthotic in order to give them the support that they require to put their foot into a neutral position.

Foot Type:
The next thing to consider is the foot we are supporting with the orthotic. If the foot is very flexible and a lot of control is required, we will tend to use more rigid materials. If there is little joint motion available in the foot, then little control over that motion can be achieved. In this case, a less rigid material should be chosen.

REMEMBER... the objective is to provide an orthotic that will assist the foot in functioning
properly and cushion any excessive impact!