Abstract
‘Orthopaedic Shoe Technology’ is a scientific as well as a hands-on book offering the state of the art in all matters pertaining to the profession of orthopaedic shoemaker. The text is divided into three sections, presenting all aspects of foot problems, the functional anatomy of the foot, and the knowledge needed to design, adapt, fabricate, fit and supply shoes specific to the needs of each individual patient.
Section 1 concentrates on the importance of a sound and relevant knowledge base for all orthopaedic shoemakers. There is a chapter on the shoe itself: its fit, function and construction. The reader learns about materials, tools, technical approaches and precise fabrication procedures. Included is also a chapter on hygiene specific to an orthopaedic shoemaker’s practice (hand, shop and construction hygiene).
Detailed attention is given to the correct fitting of orthopaedic insoles. Many of these are custom made and provide comfort and function as biomechanical devices counteracting foot imbalance. Much thought is given to shoes with and without orthotic devices, special shoes and custom-made shoes which may occasionally require inner shoe inserts. Requirements are presented for special needs such as fitting active clients who have sports interests, patients following foot or partial foot amputations, or patients who may require compression therapy prior to final shoe fitting. The range of fitting possibilities is limitless and the craftsmanship associated with orthopaedic shoe making requires knowledge, creative thinking and precision.
Section 2 provides insight into the functional anatomy of the foot, foot growth in children and foot biomechanics. Assessment procedures include testing of foot mobility, gait analysis, foot pressure readings and documentation. Outcomes of these analyses may include measures such as physical therapy, kinesiology, podiatry, gait and posture control as well as surgical procedures.
The final section describes and provides examples of lower extremity impairments such as leg length discrepancies, diabetic foot syndrome, arthritic and rheumatic deformities, congenital malformations and neurological conditions, all of which can be better managed by innovative and resourceful orthopaedic shoe fitting.
The book is clearly structured and easy to read. Tables and listings offer compact information in a clear format. All pictures are high quality colour images, some sequenced to clarify a process or progression. The book’s cover picture is unique, showing an image of foot assessment, the essential starting point for all practice procedures, thus complementing the entire text.
The initiative of the principle authors, orthopaedic surgeons René Baumgartner and Hartmut Stinus and orthopaedic shoemaker Michael Möller, with their team of contributing experts, has resulted in the creation of this much-needed work. The depth and breadth of experience reflected in this benchmark text is immense. As well as an excellent resource for orthopaedic shoemakers, this text is also valuable for all medical and allied health professionals.
I highly recommend Orthopädieschuhtechnik to medical schools, schools of rehabilitation science, orthotics training programmes, medical libraries, rehabilitation centres and, of course, to programmes training orthopaedic shoemakers. A translation into English (I am unaware of a similar text available in English) would be of great benefit to many professionals assessing and treating patients presenting with foot problems.
G Mensch
Ontario, Canada