A lot of people have been talking about 3D insoles for a long time now, but actually just saying that doesn’t really define much because everything is 3D.
First the foot was 3D scanned and then CNC milling was used to manufacture the insole from a solid block. Milling cutters cut the material to the required proportions. The new way of manufacturing is based on 3D printing. SLS (laser sintering) printers are used, in which a laser binds the polyamide powder molecules together to form the insole.
Thanks to this technology we can obtain insoles adapted to the morphology of the foot regardless of the complexity of the shape.
The 3D foot scanner detects the points of maximum pressure and, together with dynamic baropodometry, allows us to select textures and flexibilities that allow the foot its adaptive function and make the step and run sequence more efficient.
Who are 3D insoles suitable for?
3D technology allows us to design any complex structure and to choose specific thicknesses and flexibilities for each area to be treated. Therefore, given the versatility of their functions, we can state that 3D insoles are indicated to treat almost any foot pathology.
They are recommended for children whose normal growth of foot structures must be controlled, for amateur and elite athletes and even for people who wear high heels. The main benefits of a custom-made insole offer:
- Structure containment.
- Elasticity.
- Helps absorb the impact of the foot during running or walking.
- Promotes impulsion.
On the other hand, they are recommended for the treatment of the following foot pathologies:
- Plantar fasciitis.
- Metatarsalgia.
- Tendinopathies.
- Periostitis.
What are the advantages over conventional insoles?
Despite the simplicity of conventional insoles, these have managed to be a perfect complement to many of the problems of the feet. However, 3D technology has made it possible to obtain custom-made insoles that adapt to the needs of our feet.
The precision at which we work is no longer on a plaster cast and to the millimeter, now we go to the micron, where any irregularity will be reflected and therefore the adaptation will be complete. In addition, its weight is only 10 grams, which allows anyone looking for sports performance and injury prevention a use that will not involve a greater energy expenditure. If until now the period of adaptation to the treatment could last weeks, now we are talking about days.
Also, having the parameters digitized allows us to duplicate the treatment and thus have a replica of the initial treatment. We can work with such thin thicknesses and with so much elastic memory that the adaptation to the type of footwear will also be immediate.
The durability of the elastic memory properties has no known reference, so we estimate an average life that will double that of any previous treatment. They are also thermo-adaptable, a highly recommended property for those cases in which temporary changes are necessary.
Finally, it should be noted that the digitization of parameters also guarantees considerable energy savings and zero waste production, a considerable environmental advantage.