In the fields of foot orthopedics, rehabilitation therapy, and insole customization, obtaining foot shape data is the first step. But whether this first step is accurate or not directly affects the subsequent results.
In the past, we often used “foot models” to take shapes. Nowadays, more and more institutions are beginning to use “three-dimensional scanning of the soles of the feet”. So, what are the differences between the two? Which one is more accurate and efficient? Let’s analyze them one by one today.
Traditional foot models: slow work and fine work, or many restrictions
Traditional foot models mainly use foam boxes, plaster or silicone materials to step on the feet into the mold and then wait for shaping. This method is low-cost and simple to operate, and has always been the main tool for outpatient clinics and insole factories.
But it also has many limitations:
1 Contact operation can easily cause foot deformation. Once a person changes his posture or applies uneven force, the foot shape data will be distorted
2 It cannot capture dynamic changes, can only reflect the static shape at the moment of standing, and cannot identify gait abnormalities
3 It takes time to make, and generally takes several hours or even days to complete the shaping, drying, polishing and other steps
4 It is difficult to digitize. Plaster molds cannot be used directly for modeling or parameter analysis, which is not conducive to fine customization and long-term comparison
3D scanning of the sole: a precise tool in the digital age
3D scanning of the sole is a three-dimensional modeling of the foot through non-contact methods such as laser or structured light. The scanning device can obtain key data such as foot length, foot width, arch height, instep curve, etc. in a few seconds to generate a complete digital model.
Its advantages are very obvious:
1 Non-contact acquisition, avoiding human interference, and more realistic foot shape
2 High precision, the error is generally within 0.5 mm, and it can capture details that are difficult to distinguish with the naked eye
3 Comprehensively record the shape of the sole, instep and even the ankle to achieve three-dimensional analysis
4 Fast scanning speed, generally completed within 10 seconds, improving customer experience
5 Data can be directly used for 3D printing, insole modeling and long-term comparative analysis to achieve truly personalized services
The biggest difference between the two: generational leap in precision and efficiency
To sum up in one sentence, traditional foot models are more like “blurred photos”, while 3D scanning is “high-definition modeling”.
For example, for a person with mild flat feet, the traditional foot model method may produce a seemingly normal foot model due to a change in standing posture, thus affecting the diagnosis. 3D scanning can accurately display the angle and location of the arch collapse, providing strong data support for subsequent correction.
At the same time, the digital model can be permanently saved. Once the patient is reviewed, the before and after comparison can be made at any time to judge the improvement effect, which is impossible with traditional foot models.
Technology upgrades speed up foot health
In the field of foot health management, the introduction of 3D scanning technology has not only improved the detection efficiency, but also brought diagnosis and correction into the era of digital precision.
Although traditional foot models still have their value, in today’s pursuit of speed, accuracy and intelligent analysis, 3D scanning is undoubtedly the mainstream of the future.
