Computer Testing for Foot Problems

"Computers can rule the feet" Computers have become the latest tool in medicine to provide the best and most accurate treatment to patients. Podiatrists have taken this modern tool and used it to provide cutting edge technology when it comes to manufacturing prescription arch supports (orthotics). Recently, new computer software and hardware have been created for this purpose. The podiatrist no longer has to make guesswork when prescribing orthotics. The purpose of orthotics is to balance the feet and put them in proper place and position. This allows the feet to function in more normal state and thereby reduce pain. Orthotics are to feet like glasses are to the eyes. Orthotics can reduce foot pain caused by heel spurs, pinched nerves (neuromas), bunions, corns, calluses, and hammertoes. They may even arrest knee and back pain. They improve posture and generally create overall better foot health. To manufacture a computer generated pair of orthotics; the patient must stand on a "a static force plate" or "plantar pressure pad", which will show on a computer screen the major pressure points occurring on the bottom of the feet. The areas of most pressure will show the color red and least pressure will be blue. This image of the feet is known as "plantar pressure analysis". This information is vital to the podiatrist and helps immensely to evaluate the patient`s feet. It can help identify hidden pressure areas of the feet, which are causing pain. This technique can also determine whether one leg is longer than the other, just by the pressure coloration scheme noted on each foot. This plantar pressure analysis can be viewed in two or three dimensions. This information is stored digitally in the computer`s memory and can be transferred via modem to a lab to manufacture the orthotics. The next process of computer analysis is known as "computer gait analysis". The patient walks across the plantar pressure pad. Again, this information is displayed on the computer screen in variant red to blue coloration scheme to help the podiatrist diagnose the cause of the foot complaint. This technique allows information about the walking cycle to be revealed, which cannot be seen by the naked eye. Any abnormality in the walking cycle will be compared to normal. Playback of this data can be produced in two or three dimensions, as well. The podiatrist can show the patient their actual walking cycle in the immediate computer playback. The podiatrist can better educate the patient to why they need orthotics. All the computer information can be printed out and taken home. The patient may even want to show it to family and/or friends to help educate them on how important proper foot function is to everyday foot health. Once the computer analysis is performed, the patient will need to have prescription orthotics made. Ordering information is prepared on the computer. They patient will visualize their shoe type and corresponding orthotic. The podiatrist writes the orthotic prescription and send the order directly via a modem to the orthotic lab and devices will arrive and be fitted to the patient 2-3 weeks later. This advanced computer analysis is best and most accurate way to produce a pair of orthotics. Long gone are the days of messy plaster foot and unreliable foam foot impressions. There is very little room for error with this technology. Orthotic manufacture will never be the same and will certainly provide a better prescription device with greater patient satisfaction. Consider visiting a Podiatrist if you are considering getting orthotics.