[Inserts and shoes for foot deformities]

Abstract

Prevention of habitual or shoe-induced foot and toe deformities in children and treatment of congenital or developing malformations require a change of view towards functional aspects and the use of modern technical possibilities based on our traditional knowledge.Statics, functional anatomy, biomechanics, neuromotor and psychomotor activity, and developmental physiology have to be considered as well as the broad variety of physiological interindividual differences. Modern materials and fabrication techniques make it easier to produce anatomically and functionally correct and appealing shoes, inserts, and orthoses. New means of invasive treatment improve the preconditions for orthotic management. Cultural and cosmetic expectations and the real extent of disability, impairment, and handicap have to be carefully differentiated for the sake of every single child.