The growth of medically prescribed customized footwear marks a transformative development in the intersection of preventive healthcare and healing. This trend is largely driven by the increasing prevalence of chronic health conditions, such as diabetes and arthritis, which necessitate specialized care for foot-related complications. As the global population ages, the demand for personalized medical solutions, including tailored footwear, continues to rise. Technological advancements, particularly in 3D scanning and printing, have revolutionized the customization process, making it more precise and accessible. These innovations allow for the creation of footwear that perfectly matches the unique anatomical and biomechanical needs of each patient, enhancing both comfort and health outcomes.
Growing awareness among healthcare professionals and patients about the benefits of customized footwear has propelled this market forward. Medical practitioners are increasingly advocating for these tailored solutions as an integral part of treatment plans, recognizing their role in preventing and managing foot disorders.
Some of the common ailments impacting Foot and ankle health and mobility, which can be managed through custom prescription footwear or pedorthics include Diabetic foot Conditions (Diabetic neuropathy and other complications), Arthritis (Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis), Post knee or hip replacement lower limb complications, Congenital Foot Deformities, Foot Deformities from Accidents or Trauma, Plantar Fasciitis, Bunions, Hammer Toes, Pes Planus (Flat Feet), Pes Cavus (High Arches), Metatarsalgia, heel spur, Neuroma (nerve growth between metatarsal heads), among others.
To understand it better, we got in touch with Dr Sanjay Sharma, co-founder of FootSecure. Here’s his take on why one should consider custom prescription footwear:
• Relieve areas of increased pressure. Any area where there is too much pressure on the foot can lead to skin breakdown, causing deformity (ex-bunion) of the foot, aches and pains in the foot, etc. Custom Footwear can help to relieve these high-pressure areas and therefore reduce the occurrence of related signs and symptoms, like calluses, wounds, blisters, etc.
• Reduce shock and shear. The footwear or custom insoles would decrease both the amount of vertical pressure, or shock, on the bottom of the foot, as well as reduce the impact of horizontal movement of the foot within the shoe.
• Accommodate, stabilize, and support deformities. Deformities resulting from conditions such amputations, loss of fatty tissue, and hammer toes is well accommodated in custom footwear. Many deformities need to be stabilized to relieve pain and decrease the risk of progression of the deformity.
• Limit motion of joints. Limiting the motion of certain joints in the foot can often decrease inflammation, relieve pain, and result in a more stable and functional foot.
By addressing the unique needs of each condition with specialized features and supportive structures, custom prescription footwear and/or pedorthics plays an integral role in managing symptoms, providing long-term solutions for various foot conditions, enhancing mobility, and improving the overall quality of life for individuals with various foot and ankle-related conditions.
