Skip to content

Orthotic Width: It’s All Relative

Orthotic Width: It’s All Relative

I recently spoke with a doctor who noted on one of his prescription forms that he wanted an orthosis to “control servere pes planus” and yet prescribed a “narrow” orthosis. By definition, a narrow device is one that is ground lateral to the first met bisection.

A narrow orthosis has less area against the foot available to apply a supinatory torque medial to the axis of the subtalar joint. Thus, a narrow device is contraindicated in situations where you require control over a very pronated foot (one with a medially deviated subtalar joint axis).

On speaking to the doctor, he stated that he had prescribed a narrow orthosis because the patient had a narrow foot.

You can find more detail on orthoses for pes planus elsewhere on the website – just use the search feature. The point of this blog é is to remind everyone that when prescribing orthotic width, remember that the width is RELATIVE TO THE FOOT.

Here is a good way to think about orthotic width:

  • Normal width: Bisects 1st metatarsal shaft
  • Narrow width: To lateral aspect of 1st metatarsal shaft
  • Wide width: To medial aspect of 1st metatarsal shaft
  • Medial Flange: Wraps medially around the medial arch.

So, the width of the foot does not matter. If you need more control, order a wider orthosis. A wide orthosis will not be wider than the foot, regardless of the width of the foot.

ProLab takes a scientific approach with our orthoses by integrating evidence-based medicine into orthotic therapy. Our team of Medical Consultants regularly evaluates the medical literature pertaining to orthotic therapy and biomechanics. ProLab clients are encouraged to contact a medical consultant whenever they have questions about an orthotic prescription.

For an easy way to stay up-to-date on evidence-based orthotic therapy, subscribe to our free newsletter below.

Share This Post

Share on facebook
Share on twitter
Share on linkedin
Share on print
Share on email

Related Posts

Orthotics for Chronic Neuropathic Ulcer on the Plantar Medial Hallux

We have a question from a ProLab client today: I have a patient who is 70 yo male with a…

Orthotic Adjustments For Prominent Fifth Metatarsal Base: Plantar or Lateral?

We will often have ProLab clients ask us to accommodate for prominent fifth metatarsal base. Rarely, however, do they indicate…

Dress Orthotics for Patient with Sub 2nd Met Pain

We had this question come in from a ProLab client today: QUESTION: I have a question regarding a prescription for…