Phits Orthotics – What Makes Them Different
Phits orthotics are custom-made insoles created using detailed dynamic gait data from a Footscan pressure plate.
Unlike more traditional methods, which may rely heavily on a static foot mould or written prescription, the Phits system uses information recorded while you are actually walking. This allows the orthotic design to take into account how pressure moves through your feet during movement, not simply how your foot looks when you are standing still.
At Bucks Podiatry, Phits orthotics can be prescribed following a full biomechanical assessment (link to Biomechanical Assessment page) and gait analysis at our Amersham and Beaconsfield clinics.
How are traditional orthotics made?
There are several ways of producing prescription orthotics.
Traditionally, this may involve:
- A clinical assessment of the foot and lower limb
- A static mould, cast or scan of the foot
- A written prescription from the clinician
- Manufacture by an external orthotics laboratory
- Adjustments such as wedges, supports or cushioning being added to an existing device
These approaches can work very well, but a static impression of the foot does not necessarily show exactly what happens when you walk or run.
How are Phits orthotics different?
The Phits system combines a clinical biomechanical assessment with dynamic Footscan gait analysis.
As you walk across the pressure plate, thousands of pressure measurements are recorded, showing how your feet load and move throughout each step.
This information can identify factors such as:
- Where pressure is concentrated beneath the foot
- How your weight transfers from heel to forefoot
- Differences between your left and right sides
- The timing of different phases of your gait
- Areas that may require additional support or pressure redistribution
The gait data is then incorporated directly into the digital design of your individual orthotics.
3D-printed specifically for your feet
Once the assessment and prescription have been completed, your Phits orthotics are 3D printed to your individual specifications.
The digital manufacturing process allows different areas of the orthotic to be designed with varying levels of support, flexibility and cushioning depending on your needs.
The result is an orthotic created specifically for your feet, your movement patterns and the problem we are trying to address.
Why does dynamic gait data matter?
Your feet behave differently when they are moving compared with when you are simply sitting or standing.
Walking and running involve a complex sequence of movements through the feet, ankles, knees and hips. Looking at the foot dynamically can therefore provide additional information that may not be apparent from a static assessment alone.
At Bucks Podiatry, we combine the Footscan findings with our clinical examination rather than relying on the computerised data in isolation.
This allows us to build a more complete picture of how you move and whether orthotics are likely to be appropriate.
Who can benefit from Phits orthotics?
Phits orthotics may be recommended for people with a wide variety of lifestyles and activity levels, from people who spend much of the day on their feet to recreational walkers and runners.
They may form part of the management of conditions including:
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Achilles tendon problems
- Forefoot pain
- Recurrent foot and ankle problems
- Shin pain
- Some knee and lower-limb problems
- Running and sports-related injuries
Orthotics are not appropriate for every patient or every type of pain. Your podiatrist will first assess the underlying problem and advise whether they are likely to be helpful.
More than just an insole
Prescription orthotics work best when they are considered as part of your overall treatment plan.
Depending on your condition, this may also include strengthening and mobility exercises, footwear advice, changes to activity and other treatments.
The aim is not simply to place an insole inside your shoe, but to improve how forces are managed through the foot and lower limb and help you move more comfortably.
Find out whether Phits orthotics could help you
If you have persistent plantar fasciitis, foot pain, a recurring sports injury or another lower-limb problem that has not settled, a biomechanical assessment and Footscan gait analysis can help us determine whether prescription orthotics may be appropriate.
Phits assessments are available at Bucks Podiatry in Amersham and Beaconsfield.
Book a biomechanical assessment online or contact our team to find out more about Phits custom orthotics.