Question
I am now 8 months post op a successful extensive flat foot reconstruction. I had my 8 months post op check yesterday. Films showd that everthing looked great.  I am also feeling so much better than prior to surgery. I was given an rx for functional orthotics.  The surgical foot does not need correction but just support.  The non surgical foot pronates sligthtly so that foot will have a very mild correction.  The surgeon is about 2 hours from my house so I will have the orthotics made locally


One pedorthist would cast my foot using a plaster sock while NWB while a different pedorthist would have me sit while he guides my feet into a foam box.  What are the advantages of one method over the other?  I realize that I am very fortunate to be one of the people who is happy with the outcome of the surgery and want to do everything possible to protect my surgical foot while preventing the other foot from getting worse.

Answer
ANSWER: This Chicago, South Loop & Elmhurst Orthopedic Podiatrist of AnklenfootCenters.com says.......

Dear Stacy,

Consider going to a podiatrist Board Certified in Foot & Ankle Orthopedics.
The problem with a non-weight bearing impression is that the foot will be shorter and the arch higher. Just look at your foot and watch it elongate as you step down.
The problem with a partial weight-bearing impression is that the foot may not be in a more neutral position while casting.
The best method is plaster casting/or with a sock and the foot is held in a bio-mechanically neutral position.
That said-the partial weight-bearing impression would probably give you a better result.
Also some labs are able to make adjustments to the different techniques(but these are educated guesses and not perfect).
If the orthotics are accomomodative then you should be fine.
Functional(or sports) orthotics may work better with more precise casting techniques


Hope This Helps
Good Luck !!!

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