Many shoes feature a wider toe box, but often compensate by having a shallower overall volume, which complicates orthotic fitting. While no 3-D scan currently exists that captures the interior of a shoe, developing such a technology could provide an alternative to sending shoes to a lab for an optimal fit. If sending the shoe is not an option, tracing the shoe insole is a secondary solution.
Consider reducing the arch height if the shoe has limited volume. If you request the lab to increase the arch fill this will lower the height.
Orthotics that slide forward pose another common problem. A simple solution is to use full-length orthotics instead of 3/4 or sulcus-length devices. A shallow heel cup can lead to more sliding than a deeper one. If an orthotic’s heel cup is too deep for the shoe, it might cause the heel to sit too high at the back of the shoe.
Effective orthotic fitting requires understanding the limitations of shoe design and volume. Adjusting orthotic length and depth can help improve fit and comfort for patients. And just as specific sports require specific sports shoes, in some cases, specific sports shoes may also require specific orthotics.
