Usage of additive technologies for orthopedic footwear manufacturing

Abstract

In our times, the use of additive technologies has become very popular because of the ability to customize products, speed of manufacturing, save costs in production, simplify product development and launch into production, minimize of material waste. The production of orthopedic footwear components using FDM printing is very relevant because such footwear is custom-made and has numerous parameters that need to be considered during design and development: foot sizes and circumferences, type of deformity or foot condition, and sometimes associated diseases. The additive manufacturing of orthopedic insoles is particularly prevalent, because allows customize everyday footwear with minimal effort to enhance the comfort for patients and consumers with certain minor foot deformities and conditions (flat feet, minor limb shortening, varus or valgus foot alignment, increased foot load during pregnancy, etc.). In this study, we analyzed the latest global developments in 3D printing of orthopedic footwear parts, the used materials and printers, their advantages, and disadvantages. This work will be useful for specialists who want to implement additive technologies in the production of orthopedic footwear, as it will help evaluate the advanced experience of orthotic workshops, researchers, orthopedists and podiatrists, and make the right decisions.