Monday, June 26, 2023

Atlas Biomechanics : Heel Wedges to Treat Over Pronation

Atlas Biomechanics : Heel Wedges to Treat Over Pronation:   Heel wedges, also known as medial heel wedges or pronation control wedges, can be used as part of the treatment approach for overpronation...

Heel Wedges to Treat Over Pronation

 Heel wedges, also known as medial heel wedges or pronation control wedges, can be used as part of the treatment approach for overpronation. Overpronation is a condition where the foot rolls inward excessively during walking or running, placing increased stress on the arches and soft tissues of the foot. Here's how heel wedges can be utilized in the treatment of overpronation:




  1. Evaluation: It's important to have a professional evaluation by a healthcare provider, such as a podiatrist or physical therapist, to confirm the presence and severity of overpronation. They can assess your foot mechanics, gait, and overall lower limb alignment to determine the most appropriate treatment options.

  2. Medial heel wedge placement: Heel wedges are typically placed on the inner side (medial) of the shoe, under the heel. They are designed to provide support and limit excessive inward rolling of the foot, helping to align the foot and ankle in a more neutral position.

  3. Gradual adjustment: It is generally recommended to start with a small heel wedge, such as 3-5 millimeters (mm), and gradually increase the height if needed. This allows the foot and ankle to adapt to the changes and prevents sudden alterations in gait mechanics.

  4. Customization: Heel wedges can be customized based on the specific needs of an individual. A healthcare professional can determine the appropriate wedge height and material based on the degree of overpronation and the individual's foot structure.

  5. Combined treatment approach: While heel wedges can help address overpronation, they are often used in combination with other treatment methods. These may include exercises to strengthen the foot and ankle, orthotic inserts or arch supports, footwear modifications, and physical therapy to improve gait mechanics.

  6. Regular monitoring and adjustments: It's important to have follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of the heel wedges and make any necessary adjustments. They can assess your progress, address any concerns, and modify the treatment plan as needed.

Remember, heel wedges are just one component of a comprehensive treatment plan for overpronation. It's important to address the underlying causes of overpronation and consider a multidisciplinary approach, involving healthcare professionals who specialize in foot and ankle conditions, to provide appropriate guidance and treatment.


Atlas Biomechanics manufactures rubber heel wedges
4 Degree Varus/Valgus Heel Wedge 1 Pair

2 Heel Wedges per Pack

Professional Grade Heel Wedges

*2 lifts bulk pack
*4 degree Inversion or Eversion
*Correct Pronation: Thicker Side Facing Inward (Heel Varus Wedge)

*Correct Supination: Thicker Side Facing Outward (Heel Valgus Wedge)
*Long lasting, Comfortable
*Made in the USA by Atlas Biomechanics

*
Reversible design allows it to fit in either the left shoe or the right shoe. Available in three sizes.

Sizes: Small 2" (5.1cm) width, Medium 2 1/2" (6.4cm) width, Large 3" (7.4cm) width

Varus/Valgus Heel Wedges can be used for pronation or supination problems of the foot and ankle. Heel Wedges are designed to help align the calcaneus (heel) during ambulation to limit excessive pronation or supination. They improve foot function by stabilizing weak, rotating ankles.

Teri Green

Monday, June 19, 2023

Heat Moldable Foot Orthotic

 A heat-moldable foot orthotic, also known as a heat-molded foot arch support or custom heat-moldable orthotic, is a type of foot arch support device that can be molded and customized to fit an individual's foot shape and arch profile. It is typically made from a heat-sensitive material, which softens and becomes pliable when heated. This allows you to fabricate a custom foot orthotic without an expensive orthotic lab.

The process of heat molding involves placing the foot orthotic in heat to raise its temperature. Once the material reaches the appropriate temperature, it becomes flexible and can be easily shaped. The person seeking the orthotic then stands or walks on the heated insole while it molds to their foot contours. This allows for a personalized fit and provides optimal support and alignment. To heat Atlas Biomechanics heat moldable orthotics, just use either a heat gun or boiling water.



The benefits of heat-moldable foot orthotics include:

  1. Customized fit: Heat molding enables the orthotic to conform to the specific shape of the individual's foot, accommodating variations in arch height, foot length, and width.

  2. Improved comfort: The custom fit ensures better distribution of pressure and support, reducing discomfort and relieving pain associated with conditions like plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or high arches.

  3. Enhanced support and stability: By conforming closely to the foot contours, heat-molded orthotics provide better support to the arches, align the foot and ankle joints, and promote proper biomechanics during walking or running.

  4. Versatility: Heat-moldable foot orthotics can be used in a variety of footwear, including athletic shoes, casual shoes, and even some dress shoes, allowing individuals to benefit from customized support regardless of the occasion.

  5. Cost: A heat moldable custom foot support is significantly less expensive than using an orthotic laboratory.

When you think it’s time to start using orthotics, finding the right fit is of most importance. You may think that getting fitted for custom foot orthotics is a complicated process requiring time, money and expensive equipment. However, getting the support your feet need is actually easier than you think! When you order thermoplastic orthotic insoles, achieving a glove-like fit is easy and can be done in as little as 10 minutes. Best of all, Atlas Biomechanics crafts orthotic inserts for each type of wear. Our heat molded insoles are available for dress shoes and athletic footwear

Teri Green

Atlas Biomechanics