KevinRoot Medical continues to grow, expanding with new clients from various specialties and locations, both domestically in the United states, as well as internationally. All of our clients share the common goal of successfully treating biomechanical conditions from the ground up. Diversity in training and background amongst podiatrists, physical therapists, chiropractors, orthotists, and physicians leads to differences in nomenclature and potential for misunderstanding.
Podiatrists, such as myself, use terminology we learned in school and routinely use with our colleagues and quickly have mutual understanding amongst ourselves. Sometimes there are differences based on levels of experience or geography, but in reality we are speaking in dialects of the same language. In my position as clinical liaison for KRM, I am finding I have to communicate with various practitioners from all backgrounds, and it feels like we could all benefit from a biomechanical thesaurus.
Let’s start simply with the term “orthotic”, or “foot orthotic” or “functional orthotic” or “custom foot orthotic” or “Root Functional Orthotic” or more accurately “orthosis” or “orthotic device”. To many, orthotic is synonymous with any insert that is applied within a shoe. Many commercial products which are termed orthotics are actually over-the-counter foot supports which shouldn’t qualify for the term “orthotic”, but nonetheless are legally marketed as such. To me, an orthotic is a prescribed device based upon an accurate biomechanical examination and manufactured to specifications derived from a professionally written prescription. The functional aspect is the ability to actually alter the mechanics of the lower extremities to improve function and reduce disability. An "accommodative orthotic can also be a custom orthotic device as well, but lacks the functional ability to alter the mechanics of the lower extremity but nonetheless serves the purpose of relieving pain and dispersing pressure and friction stresses along the weight bearing portion of the foot. They are mainly useful in cases of diabetic neuropathy, advanced arthritic conditions and other conditions not amenable to use of a functional orthotic device.
I would encourage our clients from using terms such as “insert”, “”insole”, “arch support” or “sock liner” when discussing custom made orthotic devices, either functional or accommodative. Many non-medical entities are selling various products to be used within shoe gear to serve the purpose of relieving foot related pain, some are better than others. These over the counter products have a place, and can be potentially beneficial at times, but should not be confused with a prescribed device based on biomechanical science. Mutual understanding of common terminology will lead to our collective professional success in healing our foot weary patients.
