Orthotic design precision has always been critical to patient care, as accuracy directly impacts the success of treatment plans. While the traditional approach to orthotic scanning has evolved with advancements in 3D scanning technology, recent findings are highlighting the importance of technique over hardware. This shift not only improves design accuracy but also presents new possibilities for remote scanning, cost savings, and enhanced portability. These benefits are especially valuable for multi-clinic practitioners and those who need flexibility in their work.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the key insights that are continuing to reshape the world of orthotics and how podiatrists and other healthcare professionals can benefit from these breakthroughs.
The Key to Orthotic Design Accuracy: Technique Over Technology
In a recent study conducted in collaboration with students from QUT, we found that the type of scanner used—whether handheld or 3D foot scanner—doesn’t have the biggest impact on the accuracy of orthotic devices. Instead, the clinician’s scanning technique is the key factor in achieving precise results. When paired with proper foot positioning and load-bearing calibration, this approach ensures the highest level of accuracy in orthotic prescriptions.
What does this mean for podiatrists and clinicians? The study suggests that when clinicians are trained to use the right technique with any scanner, including portable devices, the resulting orthotic designs are equally as accurate as those made with more complex and expensive equipment.
This shift in focus means that podiatrists can achieve high levels of precision without necessarily relying on costly technology. For healthcare professionals, this knowledge provides the opportunity to invest in effective training programs that prioritise technique, making orthotics more accessible and improving patient outcomes.
iPhone 3D Scanning: A Game-Changer for Remote Scanning and Cost Efficiency
One of the most exciting takeaways from this study is the fact that iPhone 3D scanning technology is more than sufficient for capturing high-quality foot scans. For years, the medical industry and in particular Podiatry industry have relied on manual and subjective methods of taking a foot mould using plaster bandages or similar. In recent times very expensive specialised 3D scanners have been introduced. However, this research highlights the power of mobile technology in revolutionising orthotic design.
Using an iPhone or other mobile devices with 3D scanning capabilities offers several advantages:
Portability: Mobile devices can be easily transported between clinics or used by healthcare professionals on the go. This is especially beneficial for multi-clinic podiatrists or practitioners working in remote locations.
Cost Efficiency: Instead of incurring significant upfront costs, iPhone scanning offers a low scanning fee of approximately $2 AUD per scan.
Remote Scanning: With iPhone 3D scanning, practitioners can offer remote consultations in locations where it is most needed. This is a game-changer for patients in rural areas or those who cannot travel to a clinic, ensuring wider access to high-quality orthotics and foot care.
For podiatrists and other healthcare providers, adopting iPhone 3D scanning can streamline workflows, reduce overhead costs, and offer a more flexible, patient-centric service.
Why This Matters for Your Orthotic Practice
The integration of these advancements can make a tangible difference for podiatrists and orthotic specialists. By leveraging accurate scanning techniques and mobile 3D scanning technology, you can:
Improve patient outcomes by creating highly personalised and accurate orthotic devices
Expand your services to remote or underserved locations
Cut down on overhead and equipment costs, making high-quality orthotics more achievable and accessible to a broader patient base
Ultimately, these innovations enable podiatrists to stay competitive, offering enhanced services while reducing costs, boosting patient satisfaction, and improving overall clinical outcomes.
Training and Education: The Key to Maximising New Technologies
To make the most of these advancements, proper training is essential. For practitioners looking to implement remote scanning or mobile 3D technology, investing in training on the best scanning techniques is vital. Understanding how to scan the foot correctly with mobile technology will ensure that the orthotic devices produced are as accurate as those made with traditional, more expensive equipment.
Conclusion: A New Era for Orthotic Design
The orthotic industry continues to break ground in areas where technology and technique work together to create better, more accessible care for patients. By focusing on scanning techniques, adopting mobile 3D scanning technology like the iPhone 3D scanner, and investing in training, podiatrists and healthcare professionals can offer more efficient, cost-effective, and accurate orthotics.
As the landscape of podiatry and orthotic care evolves, those who embrace these innovations will be better positioned to serve their patients and stay ahead of the curve. The future of orthotic solutions is here, and it’s more portable, accessible, and efficient than ever before.
At iOrthotics, we offer advanced training opportunities that comprehensively cover topics such as scanning techniques. Follow us on LinkedIn to make sure you know the latest information about 2025 training workshops in your capital city.
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