Last week I got fitted for a new pair of orthotics. I haven’t had a new pair in about 10 years. When I got my first pair, around 2011, the experience was very different. I remember stepping on some kind of squishy, memory foam pad to create an imprint of each foot. Presumably a technician filled the imprints to create the mold of the orthotics. I honestly didn’t think much about it at the time. Though I did have some problems with the first couple of sets and had to repeat the process at least three times before I got a decent pair. This is likely why I haven’t gone back for a new pair in so long.
Flash forward into the future. This time, the chiropodist took a few pictures of my feet. I had to stand still while she moved her tablet around at different angles to get the right images. She took photos from the front, sides, and back. At the end, I kneeled on the exam table with one foot propped up, then the other, so she could image the underside. Based on the 2D images, the app created a 3D rendering of my feet that will be used to make the new pair of orthotics. It would be super neat if the orthotics printed in 3D based on the renderings.
I enjoyed several things about this experience. First of all, the chiropodist took images of my feet. This was more enjoyable than stepping on something squishy and weird feeling. The new, modern approach generates less waste. I’m guessing after the previous companies completed my orthotics, they tossed out the foam imprints. I felt confident about the handling of the images. The images attached directly to my electronic patient file (hopefully) eliminating mix-up errors.
On the flip side, the new technology advancements don’t seem to have brought the price down. Though I don’t know for sure, I’m guessing there’s still a considerable amount of skill, experience, and effort required by a human to make the orthotics properly. Naturally, the materials also cost money.
I’m excited to get the new pair to compare how they fit and the comfort level with the new, modern method of creation. Maybe in 10 years, when I get my next pair, the process will be even more modern. I’ll have images taken at the appointment and orthotics printed before I leave.